Berlin
Greenlife Value fights court ban on Warmies Mini Cinnamon Roll plush toy
Microwavable heatable plush toys have become a staple in the self-service sections of many pharmacies. Beyond animal shapes, the range now includes avocados, donuts, and even cinnamon rolls. Manufacturer Greenlife Value has issued a warning over a legal dispute, advising retailers against selling its Warmies Mini Cinnamon Roll.
The Warmies Mini Cinnamon Roll (item number 15139) was originally part of the Happy Bites display. However, due to a "preliminary injunction," the product may no longer be offered, distributed, or advertised. According to the LĂźbeck-based company, the ban stems from allegations of infringing a "registered but unexamined" EU design right. The legal action has been initiated by a competitor.
Oliver Salzmann, managing director of Greenlife Value in Germany, explained: "In a dispute with another plush toy manufacturer, the competitor obtained a preliminary injunction from the DĂźsseldorf Regional Court, temporarily prohibiting the use of our specific cinnamon roll design." The company is challenging the court's decision. "This ruling pertains solely to the product's designâit does not affect quality, safety, or our ability to serve customers."
Warmies Manufacturer Rejects Allegations
The LĂźbeck-based company maintains that the ban lacks merit. "We consider this injunction unfounded and will exhaust all legal avenues to overturn this provisional decision," a spokesperson stated.
For now, retailers are not required to return the product but must remove it from public view. "This applies not only to physical stores but also to online shops and all promotional materials, both print and digital," the company clarified.
Failure to comply could result in "substantial regulatory fines," Greenlife Value warned. The manufacturer emphasized that retailers must take precautions to avoid liability over the cinnamon roll Warmies.
A London-Based Brand
The microwaveable heatable products have been available in Germany since 2005, originating from the Intelex Group, founded in London in 1995. The company's catalog now includes around 240 different items.
