Aldi Süd Challenges Dubai-Chocolate Sales Ban, Lidl Cleared to Continue

German courts issue conflicting rulings on the use of 'Dubai' branding for chocolate products.

Aldi Süd has filed an appeal against a Cologne court's decision to ban the sale of its 'Dubai-Chocolate', citing potential consumer misrepresentation.
The Cologne court ruled that products labeled 'Dubai-Chocolate' must have a direct connection to Dubai, such as being manufactured there, to avoid misleading consumers.
In contrast, the Frankfurt court allowed Lidl to continue selling its 'Dubai-Chocolate', stating the term has become a generic descriptor for certain ingredients, like pistachios and kadayif.
The Frankfurt court emphasized that Lidl's packaging lacked design elements suggesting the product originated in Dubai, unlike Aldi Süd's, which featured Dubai's skyline.
Andreas Wilmers, a Dubai-based chocolate importer, initiated legal action against both Aldi Süd and Lidl, with mixed outcomes; he is considering further appeals.