Abmahnung durch den Schutzverband der Spirituosen-Industrie e.V. erhalten?

Who is the Schutzverband der Spirituosen-Industrie e.V.?

The Schutzverband der Spirituosen-Industrie e.V. is an industry association that pursues violations of competition law in
the area of spirits, spirit-like products, and the relevant labeling and advertising requirements. Warning letters often
concern the legally compliant designation, presentation, and marketing of products.

Why the association issues warning letters

The focus is on compliance with the specific food-law and labeling requirements applicable to spirits. Warning letters
regularly seek the cessation of a product name or advertising that the association considers unlawful and often demand a
cease-and-desist declaration with a penalty clause.

Which companies are particularly affected

Affected are manufacturers, importers, bottlers, as well as online and brick-and-mortar retailers—especially in relation to
product names, category designations, “alternative” designations, ingredient statements, and advertising claims.

Act quickly now if you have received a warning letter from the Schutzverband der Spirituosen-Industrie e.V.

Observe the deadline for the cease-and-desist declaration

Warning letters regularly set a short deadline. Legal assistance must be obtained before this deadline expires in order to
avoid court proceedings and additional costs.

Do not sign the cease-and-desist declaration without review

The cease-and-desist declaration can be far-reaching and may permanently restrict your product range and product
communications. It should never be signed without prior legal review.

Typical warning-letter issues under spirits law

Impermissible designations and “look-alike” references

Disputes often concern product names that closely resemble protected categories, as well as presentations that may mislead
consumers about the product’s actual characteristics.

Labeling, ingredients, QUID, and advertising

Incorrect labeling, missing ingredient or quantity declarations, and misleading advertising claims can also be relevant
under competition law.

Defense by a specialized attorney in food law

Review of product category, labeling, and advertising

I review the specific allegation, the relevant special regulations, and the economically best response to minimize risk.

Practical solutions for your product range and shop

The goal is a legally compliant adjustment with as little loss of revenue as possible, as well as a risk-minimized response
to the warning letter.

Received a warning letter? Have it reviewed now

Fast review before the deadline expires

Note the deadline, do not submit any declaration without review, and have the warning letter and product presentation
reviewed by an attorney at short notice.