Burberry appeals China decision over trademark tartan

LONDON - British luxury fashion group Burberry said Wednesday it would appeal against a recent decision by Chinese authorities in order to protect its famous check pattern from being copied.

The group said in a statement that its Burberry Check material was a registered trademark exclusively owned by Burberry and it was confident its appeal would be successful.

"No other parties can use the mark without Burberry's proper authorisation. Burberry always takes the strongest possible action against those who use its trademarks unlawfully."

The London-listed firm, famous for its red, camel and black check design on clothes and handbags, did not give details of the decision but media reports say China lifted the protection on the tartan following a request by a Chinese competitor.

China is a key market for the luxury fashion group, where it registers double-digit growth.