By Basant El-Faramawy
Mondelēz International, owner of the Toblerone brand, has filed a lawsuit in the London High Court against British vegan chocolate maker Catherine’s Originals, alleging trademark infringement and “passing off” over the shape of its O’Bar product.
Allegations of shape copying
The confectionery giant claims the O’Bar’s segmented design with rounded semi‑oval humps copies Toblerone’s distinctive triangular peaks, a design registered since 1929. Mondelēz says it attempted to resolve the matter privately over several months without success.
Small business responds
Catherine’s Originals, founded by Catherine Dodd in 2021 and based in Walberton, Sussex, denies the claims. Dodd said the bar’s shape represents an “O” for Originals and called the legal action “frightening” for a small business. The company’s legal adviser, Stephen Lowry of Brandsmiths, stated the O’Bar has its own distinctive design and identity.
Price gap highlighted
The 200 g O’Bar sells for £9.20 to £10.55, while a standard milk chocolate Toblerone costs about £2.50.
Previous shape dispute
The case follows a 2017 dispute in which Mondelēz forced budget retailer Poundland to modify its Twin Peaks bar, which featured two humps instead of Toblerone’s single peaks.
