Its similar. Its been around for awhile. Its only when woolies said they wanted to stick it on electrical goods, did Apple do anything.
Also, they have to protect their brand and trademark, if they are slack, when it really matters someone will use the "you didnt complain about them " excuse. And considering the tenous relationship Apple have with Apple corp. over the logo/trademark I can totally understand why Apple protect their brand.
George Coghill
· 2 months ago
Thanks for posting this. It's part of defending your trademark to send cease & desist notices. This is just standard stuff. Most likely, Woolworths applied for a trademark in a new category, one that overlapped on a category that Apple already has a trademark within.
Trademark holders are required by the USPTO to do stuff like this. You have to keep an eye on potentially infringing trademarks, and by sending the C&D letter they can ay in the future "we warned them". Otherwise Apple could be in jeopardy of losing it's own trademark.
I don't see it as a big deal, and regardless this all goes back to the USPTO requirements, not some aggressiveness on Apple's part.
Cullen Henshaw
· 2 months ago
If Apple want to sue someone for copying their logo they should look no further than The Beatles and their Apple Corps. The Logo is an apple AND the word "Apple" is there too!
Pdrox
· 2 months ago
They both fought it out in court previously. But surely you've got your logic arseways??? The Beatles and Abbey Roads Records with the apple icon on all their records were around since the 60's. Shag it - sue the devil himself for his use of the apple.
Cullen Henshaw
· 2 months ago
I know, I know I should have included an irony emoticon.
George
· 2 months ago
Sorry to disappoint you further, but what you said wasn't even faintly ironic.
Mitch
· 2 months ago
He ment sarcasm. Stop trying to act all smart. It's so annoying.
JJ
· 2 months ago
Douche
Mike Murray
· 2 months ago
The Beatles/Apple Corps and Apple have had a prolific history in the courts and every time Apple comes out with something music related, it stokes the fires of their settlements.
fejaum
· 2 months ago
It should be the other way around, since Jobs DID base his company name and logo off The Beatles one.
But they're both great, why fight? I think they should settle this merging. And I'm not saying this just because I want to see a Beatles iPod *whistling*
sam
· 2 months ago
Surely it's a hoodie with a banana on his head
jbcarey
· 2 months ago
When I see the Woolworths Logo, I'd never think, oh look "apple logo".
Cat
· 2 months ago
When I see the Woolworth's logo, however, I don't think Woolworth's either... So the issue for me is not does it look a bit like Apple or an apple, but is it, in fact, representative of Woolworth's at all?? I certainly didn't see a W.....
Appsaurus
· 2 months ago
Apple is being over the top on this...the only similarity is the leaf on top. In reply to Cat since when does the logo have to represent the name of the company. Even if it isn't a W, Woolworths has every right to make their logo what they like as long as is it does not copy anyone else and I don't believe it does. By the way it looks very much like a W.
Petr Faitl
· 2 months ago
My response to that is that the Apple logo looks very much like ... an apple! Apple growers be careful or you might get sued!
...tossas. And I thought those tactics were Microsoft domain, not that cool brand! Maybe the coolness is wearing off a bit.
Bob
· 2 months ago
Its an apple...if you really want to know just ask a child what they see.
How do these guys feel such idiotic things? Astonishing! !~_~!
Anon
· 2 months ago
Apple's core has gone rotten. Get back to making amazing technology and stop the rot!
sylviahubbard1
· 2 months ago
lawd, i didn't know woolworth was still open. that's big news to me. LMAO!
Jason Ilagan
· 2 months ago
The article's referring to the Australian Woolworths. They're a major supermarket chain here.
Name
· 2 months ago
the woolworth logo looks more pumpkin than apple to me...and apple needs to get a grip, they've got bigger problems to deal with than this BS...
loganmarlowe
· 2 months ago
"A stylized W with an abstract leaf." What do you need an abstract leaf for if not to make it look more like Apple's logo?
Common Sense
· 2 months ago
Exactly. There is NO REASON for that "abstract leaf". I think Apple has a right to complain.
Sarah Camp
· 2 months ago
I agree. Why don't they just remove the "abstract leaf"? Then all that's left is the W and it makes more sense, anyway.
Appsaurus
· 2 months ago
Fair enough Sarah, but once again...since when does apple own the leaf. Design is a very complex thing...many designs can look similar...if you take this philosophy then apple should sue every fruit shop in Australia too. Get over it Apple...it's not like your not making enough money from iTunes.
Kyle Gallant
· 2 months ago
That's how I feel about the logo too, the leaf is what is making it look too much like an apple. The W itself isn't that bad, and wouldn't be mistaken. That being said, apply is being a little childish... but it's understandable.
Lindsay Davies
· 2 months ago
Side by side, yes the two logos look similar, especially with the colour and 'abstract leaf'. I do see the W though and think that the style of the new Woolworths logo also looks similar to the Wall's icecream swirl.
I think that Apple is right to protect the logo and I agree there is cross-over in the technology sector. That the apple shape and name is considered to be taken and owned by Apple is a symbol of the strength and power of the brand.
Jason Williams
· 2 months ago
Wait.... hold up.... Woolworths is still in business? Damn..... I haven't seen one of those stores in many years, lol. This is probably the best press they have received in ages, lol.
Gaby
· 2 months ago
They are both apple-like, but how the heck can Apple expect no one else to ever use an apple as the base idea for their logo? The shapes aren't at all similar, the colours are very different, and it looks more like apple peel than an apple.
I understand that they may sell similar products, but it's clear the logo is aimed at the fruit selling side of the woolworths site. In fact, looking at it on the website it doesn't feel like it has anything to do with tech at all. I really don't think Apple will get anywhere if they sue.
Jordon
· 2 months ago
Who cares? Its a an apple
maggie
· 2 months ago
Oh For Goodness sakes...;-)
Martin Kaufmann
· 2 months ago
Don't use the words Apps or Applet any more, you might get sued by Apple. This is getting kinda sick.
johnfurst
· 2 months ago
I see more similarity to the logo of General Electric. :-)
Joel Brodsky
· 2 months ago
I am so sick of Apple and all of the ISheep out there. Are they going to go after Hanes because they use apple in their advertising?
roderic
· 2 months ago
As a graphic designer and long time Apple user I would say that they Apple are taking this too far. I have first hand experience in an IP infringement case after designing a logo/brand challenged and beaten by a big french brand who claimed similar things, and if you ask me, they will try anything on considering they have whole legal teams who are charged soley with this task. My question is - Does it look like apple's logo or an apple? Does apple have all the rights to the humble apple now? As simplistic as this may sound, 'They dont even sell apples!' Has the corporate world taken ownership of even the banale? See also Cadbury IP case where they sought to own a specific colour purple...The (legal) gods must be crazy.
TheChooser
· 2 months ago
They are obsessed with they apple. They should sue God for creating the apple (fruit) in the first place.
stoweboyd
· 2 months ago
I don't think any consumer would be confused, unless the Woolworth logo appeared on the back of sleek laptop.
Cathie Tranent
· 2 months ago
It looked like a W to me straight away - and didn't make me even think of Apple until I saw this!
Ben
· 2 months ago
Why do they need the stem...? You have no affiliation to apples or fruit. So just remove the stem and you have a logo...I wouldn't say a great logo but a logo...
Ethan Beute
· 2 months ago
Re: why the stem?
It's a grocery. They're the "fresh food people."
Travis Keller
· 2 months ago
its a hybrid of Apple and Walt Disney and every eco-company. not creative.
Sheema Siddiqi
· 2 months ago
I didn't even know Woolworths was still around...
Richard
· 2 months ago
Ridiculous. Get a grip, Apple.
Ethan Beute
· 2 months ago
Apple may see the frivolity in their claim, but they eat the legal fees in order to cast shots across bows of everyone. The chilling effect: "Don't mess with Apple." "Does this look too much like Apple?" "What will Apple say about this?"
Haermen
· 2 months ago
Im never going to take a picture of an apple then.. Apple might sue me.. :')
amazedsaint
· 2 months ago
Aha, the guy who sells apples near my home should be careful, he has an apple's pic in his nameboard :P
RobGraham
· 2 months ago
The only way I'd get them confused is if Apple starts to sell cheap plastic crap too.
Entertainment2u-Twitter
· 2 months ago
Close enough! Woolworth's should have chosen a different color. That would be enough of a difference.
Mike
· 2 months ago
The only distinguishing mark in 'apples' version is the piece missing - if the authorities stop anyone from using an apple (a natural product) as their logo then what has the world come to
Justin
· 2 months ago
Except .. the Apple logo isn't usually green.....
lainieyeoh
· 2 months ago
Woolworth's logo looks predominantly like a (joyous and anthropomorphic?) apple-peel. fits in with their whole "fresh food people" tagline.
personally think apple is overreacting.
cherylandonian
· 2 months ago
I think the logos are similar enough that is it reasonable for Apple to have a problem with it. If Woolworth's were using the logo to sell fruit, that's one thing, but they are opening the door to using it to sell electronics. A brand's identity is one of its most valuable assets and if there is a chance of anyone confusing a piece of electronics as being part of the Apple line when it's not, then I think it would be completely reasonable for Apple to contest.
-Jay
· 2 months ago
Wow, Woolworths is still around?!? I think that shocked me more... Smart of Apple to jump in and try to steal the "lime" light before Walgreens did...
Rhonda
· 2 months ago
I thought Woolworths closed down years ago LOL
jjb
· 2 months ago
i think it looks like a combination of Apple + Walt Disney... i can't believe Disney hasn't started in on them yet.
Bob
· 2 months ago
One big difference.. Apple's Logo has a bite taken out of it. Showing that like Eve in the Garden of Eden, has eaten from the Tree of Knowledge. Apple can stick it in their ear!
neal white
· 2 months ago
Only an idiot would look at one and think the other.
Di
· 2 months ago
Next, Apple is going to take on the publishers of the Bible for the Apple refferences in Adam and Eves story.
Alicia
· 2 months ago
I read somewhere that the logo was supposed to be a lettuce, not an apple. Explains the abstract leaf, too.
Alicia
· 2 months ago
Although apparently not if Woolworths' spokespeople haven't said it. But they should have. Because it does look like a lettuce.
SvenCM
· 2 months ago
I personally think that the logos are too similar and the stylized Apple-W does not truly reflect Woolworth's mission. Keep the stylized W, add a reversed leaf to the other side, possibly one above the two leaves, and then you would have a logo that represents a "green" company plus the many, diverse products offered by Woolworth's, sort of an out-flow of merchandise from their institution. Something of that nature would do much more for identity and brand awareness than their current rendition.
Justin
· 2 months ago
Do they look similar? Yes.
Is Woolworth's a threat to Apple? ... Hardly.
In making a W say fresh fruit is making it an apple the easiest choice.. I'd say so.
As an apple fan I'd like to agree with apple here but they probably hurting themselves more then they are doing any good.
Al Jhalou
· 2 months ago
Apple needs to stop being super ghestappo with everything. They really are no different than Microsoft with the bullying and suing.
Pat
· 2 months ago
I see apple's point, but I don't understand it. When I see Woolworth 's wouldn't even think about apple
fluffthebunny
· 2 months ago
Looks like a pumpkin to me.
cinuv
· 2 months ago
Couldn't find any remote resemblance
Uthman Baksh
· 2 months ago
So this is what the Woolworths hoopla is about. I agree, Woolworths is too Appley!
Danny Carmical
· 2 months ago
"Are Apple’s and Woolworths’ logos too similar? "
I love apple... but no.
isshmen
· 2 months ago
Hello .. I invite the biggest competition of the world where you can win lots of money! http://www.zona-d.info
Myatu
· 2 months ago
I own 0 (zero) Apple products because of their monopolistic stupidity like this, which has been going on for *years*.
They're far worse than what people like to portray of companies like Microsoft. Just try becoming a reseller of Apple products -- it's like enlisting for a top security clearance NSA position.
And don't even think about writing software for Apple-based products. Even Google didn't have enough clout to wedge the apple [pun intended].
And for what? Just for a shiny eye candy that can do less than a competitor's product, and at the pace of an IBM-360.
Nah, Apple should replace their logo with a hammer and sickle. It's far more suitable to their corporate policies. Commies.
lagspike
· 2 months ago
so wait. woolworths has gone bankrupt but they're still making logos?
Oran Parker
· 2 months ago
I think the mark would be stronger w/out the little "leaf like" thingy at the top. It would clean it up and be just as strong. On the flip, Apple is an arrogant company, in many ways, to think that every echo of their mark is a blatant copy. Not everything is great about Apple, their mark, their brand or their advertising.
jamie milwaukee
· 2 months ago
apple doesn't own the rights to the shape of an apple. maybe the silhouette of an apple with a sickle-shaped bite taken out of it... but CERTAINLY not the Woolworths interpretation. WTF.
grayceezarik
· 2 months ago
Woolworths, get rid of the logo, we need peace and not war. We are sick of Corporate bickering taking our attention away from more important matters, so quite battling over a silly apple. Anyone can see it is a copy of the precious Apple Apple.
Why not a battery logo? earphones, radiation, lightening bolt, etc.? Or, more sickening, is the logo meant to be controversial for the negative attention yu are now receiving, it does hurt your image.
vincej
· 2 months ago
whatever the benefits or trademark issues... it worked. I thought woolworths died back in the 60's -- so if nothing else this controversy and your posting made ONE more person aware of their existence.
Perhaps that was the point all along. :-)
John E. Bredehoft (Empoprises)
· 2 months ago
What would...um...the Beatles say? Apple the California company doesn't exactly have clean hands in this matter.
asdf
· 2 months ago
Apple probably got this way from the Beatles suing them and stealing a percentage every year of Apple's earnings. Apple records? Give me a fucking break.
dfgb
· 2 months ago
umm 20 yrs ago apple records?.... shut up apple! u dont own the apple!
The Ice Maiden
· 2 months ago
Woolworth's choice of new logo is CLEARLY over the line. APPLE would be remiss if it didn't challenge this new design.
Why include the leaf if the design isn't meant to look like an apple? And if it's meant to look like an apple, Apple Computer has a right to take notice. Apple Compluter's brand is invaluable. And Woolworth's is most assuredly NOT in Apple's league.
grayceezarik
· 2 months ago
Hey Woolworth, get rid of your apple, it is now rotten and will infect your brand. We don't need another war, we need peace! Did you do this to get the (negative) attention? It does resemble the Apple Apple, which is one of a kind. Apple does not use a lamb (wool) logo. I think a lamb would be a good logo for you. A nice fluffy lamb! How heartwarming is that? Kids will love it and they are the shoppers!
bigbaddad_99
· 2 months ago
Whatever it is ("apple" or "stylized W with a leaf?") it's a bad logo.
lesliestr
· 2 months ago
A stylized w with an abstract leaf. Yeah right. Apple owns the apple since they are the ones who LEGALLY FILED A TM registration. Although imitation may be the best form of flattery, in this case, it's too close, especially given there are unlimited artistic options available to Woolworth's to create their own unique branding logo. Riding Apple's wave is just plain lazy That said, you won't find me shopping there (if I ever get to Australia that is.)
slayaz
· 2 months ago
Woolworths, what's that?
Don't have them any more.
BYoung
· 2 months ago
Unless this new Woolworth's logo were to appear on a store-branded computer that looked VERY much like an Apple product and was placed exactly where Apple places their logo, I don't see any confusion.
A few days ago I left the house dressed in faded blue jeans and a black, long-sleeved mock T-neck sweater. Will I be challenged for looking too much like Steve Jobs?
Tamsen
· 2 months ago
Apple is insane. Don't y'all remember last year when they decided to sue NYC for their greenNYC campaign logo. http://www.hardwaregeeks.com/index.php/wtf/comm... Apple doesn't own all apples. they need to get over it.
Steven Savage
· 2 months ago
Frankly I wasn't sure what it was period - my first impression is that it may have been a character from a different alphabet.
If my first reaction is "what is that?" I don't think Apple needs to worry.
christina
· 2 months ago
Didn't Apple steal their logo from the Beatles?
cityfan
· 2 months ago
Such a waste of money, is anyone really going to confuse the 2??
Takumi Shimada
· 2 months ago
I think it is a bit too similar.
Charmaine Hon
· 2 months ago
Apple, don't be evil! Oh wait, you're not Google. But seriously, what's next? Forcing all fruit sellers of the world to call apples something else?
Guest
· 2 months ago
If indeed "Woolworths' trademark application is a blanket one, extending to electrical goods and technology"... then it's a stretch, but, hmm, I guess I can see an issue.
But it doesn't really make sense that they would have done this on purpose, because it would almost imply their "electrical goods and technology" is only Apple-related.
I'd be interested to hear the designer's thoughts on the logo, because to be honest, I don't get the green or the leaf either. (This *would* be a great logo for like, a line of organic products or something of that nature.)
camkevbell
· 2 months ago
There's still Woolworths stores? Wow that brings me back to my youth in upstate NY when we still had a Woolworths complete with wooden floors and soda fountain. I was so bummed when it closed. And no, i'm not a crotchety old coot, they just kept it open for as long as they could :P
maritam
· 2 months ago
if Woolworth would only be selling fruit, it wouldn't matter; but if they're going to use this logo in conjunction with advertising tech gadgets, it would definitely contribute to brand confusion. Apple is right to sue.
Name
· 2 months ago
yes, woolworth's logo is entrenching on the apple logo mark. pure and simple, the logo looks like an apple. as well, the woolworth's logo is second rate...their designer passed off a poor design.
ThatOneGuy
· 2 months ago
To me it looks like an abstract link holding an item above his head after getting it, with that catchy little tune playing in the background. Regardless, apple needs to get over themselves, they're not even in freaking competition with them.
Ryan
· 2 months ago
Am I the only who is getting tired of Apple? What next? Going after apple growers because the fruit they grow is too similar to their company name and logo?
To
· 2 months ago
I think Apple is being stupid. Getting media attention for cheap.
Erik
· 2 months ago
It's not that distinct, unless you're reading an article that asks you to see similarities. Apple's kind of...freaking out on this one.
James
· 2 months ago
Apple needs to grow up. It's nearly as bad as the ANZ Bank claiming rights to the colour blue and the Salvation Army claiming rights to the colour red (and they have both done that).
Name
· 2 months ago
Actually, it's kind of a green tomato!
Tired
· 2 months ago
Please, Apple. It's not even close. Are you going to sue apple farmers next?
neaiger
· 2 months ago
Woolworth shall change the logo, you can always come up with a new and better one.
Why head for iSnacky 2.0?
Lots of smarties in the market, just head forward; Improve the logo... Transform it....
Colin
· 2 months ago
I would say that this is definitely an over-reaction by Apple, unless it is just a publicity stunt.
0100
· 2 months ago
I'd just lose the "abstract leaf". It bears no relation to the brand. It would then become a very nice looking "W" logo.
WVMikeP
· 2 months ago
If we were talking about the Woolworth's that I grew up with, that is the five and dimes, I'd say Apple should sue because with that logo that clearly looks like the Apple logo when you factor in the leaf.
On the other hand, what we're talking about here is a grocery chain. "Woolworths...the fresh food people" Their new logo certainly makes you think of produce in that context, not electronics.
Now, if they do get into electronics sales with that logo, then I think they're in trouble.
Name
· 2 months ago
You knew it would happen eventually. Apple is acting like "The Man" now. Trendy people beware-
An1ken
· 2 months ago
I don't think that is close at all? A peeling Apple? You got to be kidding me! Its a W or can be seen as a person with outstretched arms or something.
Apple sometimes gets in over their heads with things. . OR someone just has a short temper.
Laters Jacques // An1ken
Sanjay Maharaj
· 2 months ago
I really do not see any similarities here at all whatsoever
alan
· 2 months ago
jajaja, es muy gracioso esto, es una manzana, obviamente todas las manzanas se parecen, pero los logos son totalmente distintos, bajo esa logica, nadie jamas podra dibujar una manzana.
All Comments
Also, they have to protect their brand and trademark, if they are slack, when it really matters someone will use the "you didnt complain about them " excuse. And considering the tenous relationship Apple have with Apple corp. over the logo/trademark I can totally understand why Apple protect their brand.
Trademark holders are required by the USPTO to do stuff like this. You have to keep an eye on potentially infringing trademarks, and by sending the C&D letter they can ay in the future "we warned them". Otherwise Apple could be in jeopardy of losing it's own trademark.
I don't see it as a big deal, and regardless this all goes back to the USPTO requirements, not some aggressiveness on Apple's part.
But they're both great, why fight? I think they should settle this merging. And I'm not saying this just because I want to see a Beatles iPod *whistling*
...tossas. And I thought those tactics were Microsoft domain, not that cool brand! Maybe the coolness is wearing off a bit.
I think that Apple is right to protect the logo and I agree there is cross-over in the technology sector. That the apple shape and name is considered to be taken and owned by Apple is a symbol of the strength and power of the brand.
I understand that they may sell similar products, but it's clear the logo is aimed at the fruit selling side of the woolworths site. In fact, looking at it on the website it doesn't feel like it has anything to do with tech at all. I really don't think Apple will get anywhere if they sue.
This is getting kinda sick.
It's a grocery. They're the "fresh food people."
Woolworth's should have chosen a different color.
That would be enough of a difference.
personally think apple is overreacting.
Apple can stick it in their ear!
Is Woolworth's a threat to Apple? ... Hardly.
In making a W say fresh fruit is making it an apple the easiest choice.. I'd say so.
As an apple fan I'd like to agree with apple here but they probably hurting themselves more then they are doing any good.
I love apple... but no.
They're far worse than what people like to portray of companies like Microsoft. Just try becoming a reseller of Apple products -- it's like enlisting for a top security clearance NSA position.
And don't even think about writing software for Apple-based products. Even Google didn't have enough clout to wedge the apple [pun intended].
And for what? Just for a shiny eye candy that can do less than a competitor's product, and at the pace of an IBM-360.
Nah, Apple should replace their logo with a hammer and sickle. It's far more suitable to their corporate policies. Commies.
Why not a battery logo? earphones, radiation, lightening bolt, etc.? Or, more sickening, is the logo meant to be controversial for the negative attention yu are now receiving, it does hurt your image.
I thought woolworths died back in the 60's -- so if nothing else this controversy and your posting made ONE more person aware of their existence.
Perhaps that was the point all along. :-)
Why include the leaf if the design isn't meant to look like an apple? And if it's meant to look like an apple, Apple Computer has a right to take notice. Apple Compluter's brand is invaluable. And Woolworth's is most assuredly NOT in Apple's league.
Did you do this to get the (negative) attention? It does resemble the Apple Apple, which is one of a kind. Apple does not use a lamb (wool) logo. I think a lamb would be a good logo for you. A nice fluffy lamb! How heartwarming is that? Kids will love it and they are the shoppers!
Don't have them any more.
A few days ago I left the house dressed in faded blue jeans and a black, long-sleeved mock T-neck sweater. Will I be challenged for looking too much like Steve Jobs?
If my first reaction is "what is that?" I don't think Apple needs to worry.
But it doesn't really make sense that they would have done this on purpose, because it would almost imply their "electrical goods and technology" is only Apple-related.
I'd be interested to hear the designer's thoughts on the logo, because to be honest, I don't get the green or the leaf either. (This *would* be a great logo for like, a line of organic products or something of that nature.)
Regardless, apple needs to get over themselves, they're not even in freaking competition with them.
Why head for iSnacky 2.0?
Lots of smarties in the market, just head forward; Improve the logo... Transform it....
On the other hand, what we're talking about here is a grocery chain. "Woolworths...the fresh food people" Their new logo certainly makes you think of produce in that context, not electronics.
Now, if they do get into electronics sales with that logo, then I think they're in trouble.
Apple sometimes gets in over their heads with things. . OR someone just has a short temper.
Laters
Jacques // An1ken