The Tel Aviv District Court has concluded a complex, six-year legal dispute regarding rights to brand usage for eyewear and marketing campaigns. Judge Gershon Gontovnik dismissed the claim filed by VERSO against the company representing singer Omer Adam, while simultaneously upholding the counterclaim filed by the Opticana chain. As a result, VERSO and David Amar were ordered to pay a combined sum of NIS 866,000 to the company representing Omer Adam and an additional NIS 800,000 to Opticana, plus interest.
The conflict originated from a business collaboration in which singer Omer Adam served as a presenter for Opticana. As part of a joint marketing activity, an eyewear collection was launched under the name "Verso Kokoriko." Following the termination of their agreement, VERSO sued, alleging that Opticana and Omer Adam continued to use their name and trademark without explicit authorization. Conversely, Opticana argued that it held explicit agreements granting rights to a portion of the brand and the ability to continue marketing exclusive products under that identity.
In a comprehensive ruling, the court rejected the plaintiff's claims and affirmed the position of Opticana and Omer Adam's company. The decision carries significant weight for the working relationships between presenters and retail chains, as well as for intellectual property issues and brand usage rights following the conclusion of commercial contracts. Currently, Opticana continues to market its house brand, "CATTLEYA," which represents a direct continuation of their activities in this sector.
Throughout the proceedings, the case drew attention for its notable participants. Judge Gontovnik dedicated a portion of the ruling to pay tribute to the late Adv. Eran Prezanti of the Firon law firm, who represented Opticana and recently passed away, describing him as a highly esteemed jurist in the field of intellectual property. Omer Adam's company was represented by Adv. Amir Altshuler and Adv. Adi Amitai. The Cattleya brand responded by welcoming the court's decision, stating it highlights the company's commitment to reliability and quality, while offering condolences to the Prezanti family. The ruling concludes a legal chapter that previously included urgent proceedings regarding interim relief and may serve as a landmark in the legal interpretation of trademark usage concerning influencers and prominent celebrity presenters.