Birkenstock targets counterfeits in India with raids following court ruling

Birkenstock, the German footwear giant known for its signature sandals, has initiated a fresh crackdown on counterfeit products in India. Acting on a confidential order issued by the Delhi High Court in late May, court-appointed local commissioners carried out surprise inspections at multiple factories in Agra and New Delhi accused of producing fake Birkenstock sandals. According to court filings reviewed by Reuters, the raids were conducted ahead of a scheduled hearing on October 6.

Birkenstock filed a lawsuit alleging trademark infringement against four traders, four manufacturers, and two unknown parties. The brand argued that cheap knock-offs were being produced in rural areas near Agra and then distributed both within India and internationally. The Delhi High Court order, issued by Judge Saurabh Banerjee on May 26, appointed ten local lawyers as commissioners to inspect the accused factories, seize counterfeit products, and seal evidence. The order also required them to file confidential reports directly to the court. This directive was initially confidential but became public when posted on the court’s website this week.

Photos submitted by Birkenstock to the court showed sandals and packaging that closely resembled its original products. The judge described these as cheap copies that could easily deceive consumers, noting that the differences between genuine and fake products were hard to identify at first glance.

Birkenstock’s legal move comes at a time when global fashion and footwear brands are increasingly targeting counterfeit markets in India. The country has long been a hotspot for fakes due to its vast manufacturing base and complex supply chains. Other major brands, including Crocs and Prada, have also initiated legal proceedings against Indian counterfeiters in recent years.

Once seen as a niche product favored by hippies, health workers, and tech professionals, Birkenstock’s popularity has grown rapidly in recent years. The brand gained further cultural cachet after featuring prominently in the 2023 Barbie film, where Australian actress Margot Robbie sported a pink pair.

While Birkenstock faced setbacks in Germany after a court ruled that its iconic sandal design lacked copyright protection, the brand remains aggressive in defending its trademarks in India. The price of women’s Birkenstock sandals in India ranges from around $46 to $233, making them a lucrative target for counterfeiters.

The case will come up for further hearing in October, where the court will examine the evidence collected during the raids and decide on the next legal steps.