Politics / Germany

Trademark Dispute in Fast Food

A kebab shop owner in Germany, Sergen Kohlju, is embroiled in a trademark dispute with KFC over the name 'crispy kebab'. Kohlju opened his first shop in 2017 and has since expanded to multiple locations, securing a trademark for the name.
dw_news • 2026-05-01T14:01:17Z
Source material: Germany's Krispy Kebab takes on giant KFC | DW News
Summary
A kebab shop owner in Germany, Sergen Kohlju, is embroiled in a trademark dispute with KFC over the name 'crispy kebab'. Kohlju opened his first shop in 2017 and has since expanded to multiple locations, securing a trademark for the name. KFC has introduced a chicken sandwich called crispy kebab, which Kohlju claims infringes on his trademark rights. The multinational fast-food chain's marketing strategy has raised concerns about consumer confusion. Kohlju emphasizes that his fight is not about money but about protecting the name he has built over the years. He expresses loyalty from his customers, who prefer his brand over KFC's offering. KFC has stated that the use of the name was an oversight, but Kohlju is determined to seek more than just an apology. He suggests potential collaboration or changes to KFC's branding.
Perspectives
Sergen Kohlju (Kebab Shop Owner)
  • Claims KFCs use of crispy kebab infringes on his trademark rights
  • Emphasizes the importance of protecting his brand built over years
KFC (Multinational Fast-Food Chain)
  • States that the use of the name was an oversight
  • Offers an apology but does not intend to change the product name
Neutral / Shared
  • Highlights the loyalty of Kohljus customers to his brand
  • Notes the potential impact of the dispute on both businesses
Metrics
16 units
of franchises owned by Sergen Kohlju
This indicates significant growth and brand recognition for the kebab shop
He since expanded his business to include a second shop and 16 franchises
Key entities
Companies
KFC
Countries / Locations
Germany
Themes
#fastfood_conflict • #kebab_fight • #trademark_battle
Key developments
Phase 1
A kebab shop owner in Germany is in a trademark dispute with KFC over the name 'crispy kebab'. The small business has expanded significantly since its inception in 2017, while KFC has introduced a similar menu item.
  • The source block primarily promotes a small kebab shops trademark dispute with KFC over the use of the name crispy kebab for a menu item