Radio 1: Netflix Furious at German Kebab Shop

A German kebab chain is such a big fan of the popular Netflix series *La Casa de Papel* that the owner has completely redecorated his stores in the style of this Spanish series. But Netflix is furious about it. The streaming service has even taken the matter to court, says Germany expert Ulrike Nagel on *Bureau Buitenland*.

Style Completely Copied

The chain is called Haus des Döners and is named after the series known in Germany as *Haus des Geldes*. That was an idea from the wife of the kebab shop’s owner. She’s a huge fan of the series. “She thought: let’s open these shops in this style and completely copy Netflix.” The design of *La Casa de Papel* is indeed clearly visible in the chain’s locations, including the one in Venlo, Nagel explains. “From the red suits worn by the so-called bank robbers to the Dali portraits on the wall.”

Döner as a favorite food

On Instagram, you can see a store being opened, with the owner being escorted by so-called bank robbers dressed in the style of the series. But the owner didn’t ask the streaming service for permission to use the series’ design. “Netflix even approached the European Union Intellectual Property Office because they want to use the style for their own merchandise.”

Döner is also considered the favorite food of Germans. Nagel: “This chain is successful, with long lines at every opening, because döner costs just one cent then. So the owner is willing to make concessions.”

On “Bureau Buitenland,” you’ll hear international news, reports, and geopolitical analysis. Featuring background stories and remarkable tales, Monday through Friday from 1:30 to 2:00 p.m. Hosts: Sophie Derkzen and Tim de Wit

Germany expert

Ulrike Nagel