“This is a complete vindication”: Dean Guitars maker has won the right to a retrial in Gibson trademark dispute – but what does that really mean?

Dean Guitars and Gibson headstocks.

Dean Guitars owner Armadillo Enterprises has won the right to a retrial in its ongoing trademark dispute with Gibson Brands.

The dispute refers to Dean’s use of the V and Z shapes, alongside the Dovewing headstock (and several other marks), which Gibson argues infringe on its trademark rights.