We were interested to learn of, and sign up to an online petition which has been entered on the Governments No.10 petitions Website.

In the UK, unlike most of our European counterparts, there is little in the way of protection of design especially in relation to contemporary furniture and lighting.

Currently copyright expires after 30 years, allowing manufacturers to produce ‘versions’ of classic designs without penalty. In some cases designs are reproduced within months of the originals introduction into the market, and are sold online ( and in some cases on the high street).

Some manufacturers have successfully pursued copyright infringement, however this is inevitably an expensive course of action and an option that is not always available. The lack of protection of copyright endangers the development of new design. Manufacturers invest considerable sums in the gestation of any design, combined with the costs of tooling and bringing that design to the market.

The practice of producing cheap ( and almost inevitably inferior ) copies is becoming increasingly widespread. This limits the potential and viability of the original investment and is confusing to customers.

It is curious that it is somehow acceptable to sell counterfeit versions of design items online and in some stores, yet counterfeit perfumes, handbags and design clothing etc., are outlawed.

To view the petition click here

The UK body protecting design copyright is ACID