Controversy over Swiss flag on On shoes
The Federal Institute of Intellectual Property has granted On the right to use the Swiss flag on its shoes, despite production taking place abroad. The decision has sparked controversy.
Contesto
In brief - The Federal Institute of Intellectual Property has allowed On to use the Swiss flag on its shoes. - The shoes are produced entirely abroad. - The decision has sparked controversy in the Swiss business world. ## Key facts - What: Permission to use the Swiss flag on On shoes. - When: Decision made public on March 26, 2026. - Where: Switzerland. - Who: Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI). - Amount: Not specified. The Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI) has recently granted Swiss company On permission to use the Swiss flag on its shoes, despite the fact that production is entirely abroad. This decision has sparked lively controversy in the Swiss business world. The company, known for its running shoes, has received permission to apply the red cross to its products, even though they are manufactured in Asian countries. The IPI justified the decision by stating that this measure is necessary to maintain development and research activities in Switzerland. However, competitors fear that this decision could undermine the credibility of Swiss brands. Urs Furrer, director of the Swiss Trade and Craft Federation, expressed strong irritation at this decision, calling it incomprehensible. ### Rules on trademark protection Previously, the rules on trademark protection stipulated that to use 'Swiss made', 60% of production costs had to be generated in Switzerland, including an essential step in manufacturing. After lengthy discussions with the company, including threats of legal action, the IPI has now made the rule more flexible: On will be able to use the cross between the two words Swiss and engineering, thus recognizing that development and design are carried out in Switzerland. ### Competitors' protests The reaction of various competitors...
Dettagli operativi
Implications for cross-border workers The decision by the IPI to grant On permission to use the Swiss flag on its shoes, despite production taking place abroad, could have significant implications for cross-border workers employed in Switzerland. In particular, the issue concerns the perception of the quality and authenticity of Swiss products. ### Comparison with the previous situation Before this decision, the rules on trademark protection were stricter. To use the 'Swiss made' label, 60% of production costs had to be generated in Switzerland, including an essential step in the manufacturing process. This rule ensured that products bearing the Swiss label were indeed made in Switzerland, guaranteeing a certain level of quality and authenticity. ### Future scenarios With the new interpretation of the rules, it is possible that other companies will follow On's example, seeking permission to use the Swiss flag on their products, even if they are produced abroad. This could lead to increased competition and a potential dilution of the value of the Swiss brand. ### Impact on reputation The decision could also affect the reputation of Swiss products. If consumers perceive that the Swiss label no longer guarantees production in Switzerland, they may lose confidence in products with this label. This could have a negative impact on sales and the competitiveness of Swiss companies. ### Political actions The issue has also caught the attention of politicians, with a deputy promising to discuss it in Parliament. This indicates that the decision could have political implications and that measures may be taken to modify or revoke the new interpretation of the rules. ### Conclusion In conclusion, the IPI's decision to grant On permission to use the Swiss flag on its shoes, desp...
Punti chiave
What to do if you are a cross-border worker If you are a cross-border worker in Switzerland, it's important to be aware of the implications of this decision. Here are some steps you can follow: 1. Stay informed: Keep an eye on the news and developments regarding this decision. There may be further changes or discussions in Parliament. 2. Consider the impact: Think about how this decision might affect your work and your perception of Swiss products. 3. Join the debate: If you're interested, you can participate in the public debate and express your opinion. 4. Support local businesses: If you're concerned about the impact on the reputation of Swiss products, you can choose to support companies that produce in Switzerland. ### Useful tools For further information and to calculate your net salary, you can use our salary calculator. This tool will help you better understand your financial situation and plan for your future. ### Conclusion The decision of the IPI to grant On permission to use the Swiss flag on its shoes, despite production taking place abroad, has sparked controversy and could have significant implications for cross-border workers and the reputation of Swiss products. It's important to stay informed and participate in the public debate to ensure that the decisions made are in the best interest of everyone. Source: tvsvizzera.it
Punti chiave
[{"q":"What is the reason for the IPI granting On permission to use the Swiss flag?","a":"The Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI) justified the decision stating that this measure is necessary to maintain development and research activities in Switzerland. According to the IPI, easing the rules strengthens innovation and the competitiveness of Swiss companies in the global market."},{"q":"What are the concerns of competitors?","a":"Competitors fear that this decision could undermine the credibility of Swiss brands. In particular, Roberto Martullo, owner of Küzli SwissSchuh, believes that the cross emblem should remain a reward for those who export after producing in Switzerland, where costs and wages are higher."},{"q":"What are the implications for cross-border workers?","a":"The decision could have significant implications for cross-border workers in Switzerland. Specifically, the issue concerns the perception of the quality and authenticity of Swiss products. It is important to be informed and participate in the public debate to ensure that the decisions made are in the best interest of everyone."}]
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the reason for the IPI granting On permission to use the Swiss flag?
- The Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI) justified the decision stating that this measure is necessary to maintain development and research activities in Switzerland. According to the IPI, easing the rules strengthens innovation and the competitiveness of Swiss companies in the global market.
- What are the concerns of competitors?
- Competitors fear that this decision could undermine the credibility of Swiss brands. In particular, Roberto Martullo, owner of Küzli SwissSchuh, believes that the cross emblem should remain a reward for those who export after producing in Switzerland, where costs and wages are higher.
- What are the implications for cross-border workers?
- The decision could have significant implications for cross-border workers in Switzerland. Specifically, the issue concerns the perception of the quality and authenticity of Swiss products. It is important to be informed and participate in the public debate to ensure that the decisions made are in the best interest of everyone.