MARTY BUROLLA

Should You Boycott Fender?

On March 9, 2026, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) secured a significant legal victory with the Regional Court of Düsseldorf Germany. The lawsuit decreed that the Stratocaster's legendary body design is eligible for comprehensive copyright protection, classifying it as a "work of applied art” in Europe. As a result of this ruling, Fender has been aggressively targeting small builders in Europe.

Fender Stratocaster Sunburst

The Fender Stratocaster

Introduced in 1954, the Fender Stratocaster is arguably the most famous and influential electric guitar design in history. In April 2003, Fender sought to trademark the iconic two-dimensional outline of the Stratocaster in the United States. After a six-year battle, the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) ultimately ruled against Fender in March 2009, declaring the shapes to be entirely generic industry forms. Fender waited too long to trademark their product.

In March, 2026 Fender tried again, this time in court in Germany. Instead of using trademark laws, they used copyright protection laws. They targeted a Chinese manufacturer and were victorious. Almost immediately after this victory, Fender issued several small guitar builders with a cease and desist letter.

Cease and Desist

The cease and desist letter utilized an incredibly aggressive tone, demanding that builders comply with the following mandates:

  • Cease the production of all guitars featuring designs similar to the Fender Stratocaster body immediately.
  • Eliminate any existing stock of instruments that mimic the Stratocaster body shape.
  • Remit 3,500 Euros to cover the legal costs associated with the issuance of the cease and desist notice.
  • Accept liability for fines totaling 250,000 Euros should the sale of guitars resembling the Stratocaster body continue.

The Jerk Store Called

The entire guitar community, myself included, is absolutely fuming at Fender. Why take such a ruthless approach? Instead of going for the throat, why not collaborate with these builders through licensing agreements? This move stifles healthy competition and serves no one but Fender's legal interests. Nobody is happy with Fender right now. Will the public forget this debacle someday?

Reality check… Fender guitars are not great instruments. While they are undeniably iconic and widely used, if Fender ceased production tomorrow, musicians would easily transition to similar brands that often offer better quality.

I am officially boycotting Fender and will no longer purchase their products. The influence of consumer spending is significant. While I empathize with the regular employees at Fender, the executives can pound salt. This is the day the Fender Stratocaster has died. Good job Fender!