Game manufacturer Mattel, Inc., granted a licence to the World English-language Scrabble Players Association (Wespa) to use the Scrabble brand as part of its own activities.
Mattel, which owns the Scrabble trademark worldwide outside of North America , granted the use of the game’s “trademarks, trade dress, copyrights, proprietary concepts, devices, designs, game features, colour schemes, accessories and components” in connection with Wespa tournaments, meetings and other activities.
The agreement dovetails with Wespa's own constitution in pursuing the interests of Scrabble players.
Formed four years ago, Wespa was called “the official international regulatory body for tournament English-language”
The 11-point agreement was signed between Wespa chairman Allan Simmons and Philip Nelkon, manager, Mattel games division, both based in Britain.
An estimated 25,000-50,000 players take part in English Scrabble competitions in 40-45 countries.
- 30 -
