Question juridique clé
Whether SCHLUMPAGNER is invalid because it conflicts with protected Champagne indications
Solution extraite
Yes. The sign creates a likelihood of confusion with 'Champagner' and is unlawful under the Switzerland-France treaty and trademark law.
Motifs extraits
The treaty affords absolute protection to 'Champagne' and its adjectival forms. Phonetically, 'Schlumpagner' closely resembles 'Champagner', with the distinctive 'pagner' ending and initial 'sch' sound creating immediate confusion.