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Just thought I'd repost some highlights from the fresh Guitar World article here. Let's discuss!

“The focus is on products that completely replicate the exact body design”: Fender has broken its silence over its ongoing cease-and-desist strategy, clarifying its position as it looks to enforce legal protection for the Stratocaster

“Fender has tremendous respect for the guitar community, independent builders, and the creativity that continues to shape this industry,” says Fender CEO Edward “Bud” Cole. “At the same time, Fender has a responsibility to protect the iconic designs and brand identity associated with its instruments around the world.

“Protecting these iconic designs is part of Fender’s obligation as a steward of the brand, its legacy, and the authenticity musicians associate with Fender instruments.

“We remain open to engaging constructively with partners and companies across the industry as we navigate this process. Our goal is to protect that legacy while supporting a vibrant future for guitar makers, builders, and musicians alike.”

What next?

So, what does this all mean? Well, for one thing, Fender isn't aiming for a mass-destruction of all S-style guitars, and its endgame might not be as draconian as some commentators initially believed.

The shifting clarification away from the S-style "body shape" and towards a broader focus on the wider "design" is telling, too, and more revealing of the company's goal.

Of course, this is Fender’s position and by no means indicative of how the case will actually play out, if indeed it does become a protracted legal battle involving multiple firms – particularly since Strat-inspired guitars have been produced for the past 70 years, a key argument in the defense's case.

Whatever the case, in its follow-up letter, Bird & Bird has offered an extended deadline of June 8 for firms affected to issue their response.