The freefrom world has been waiting with bated breath the outcome of the battle between massive multi national Oatly with 60% of the £160 million oat milk market and Glebe Farm, a small independent UK oat farmer. Glebe Farm had, eighteen months ago, launched a gluten-free oatmilk that Oatly claimed was infringing its trademark. As you can see, not only was the Glebe Farm’s milk different (it was gluten free) but its name was different (Pure Oaty not Oatly) and their packs were entirely different.
None the less, Oatly pursued the case and Glebe Farm, supported by over 130,000 signatures on a Change.org petition and the whole of the right thinking world, stood firm. In due course the case appeared before Mr Nicholas Caddick QC at the High Court in June, and yesterday his judgement was made public – a complete vindication of Glebe Farm with Oatly’s claims being comprehensively dismissed.
If you would like to read about the case in more details, Ruth at What Allergy? has been a vocal supporter of Glebe Farm and can read her blog post here.
You can also read Glebe Farm’s winning statement and the full text of Mr Caddick’s judgement.
So good that common sense has prevailed and upheld the underdog. Well done Mr Caddick – and Glebe Farm!
‘Our daughters’ deaths could have been avoided’ – we need an allergy Tsar to stop this happening again
I agree. I am so pleased. I think Oatly have lost a lot of customers over this. I’d never have swapped oat milks to PureOaty if they’d not done this. And it’s also reminded me of Glebe Farms cereals which I’ve bought before and love so will be buying these direct from them in future. There was outrage in the gluten free and vegan communities too. Very misjudged. Let’s hope that’s an end to it but it’s really made me think harder about who is behind the brands I buy for. I’m looking out for local, environmentally sound and responsible retailers now. I don’t buy from bullies! Thanks for sharing.
Love the slogan ‘Don’t buy from bullies’ – could be used a lot.