Industry Sep 26, 2026
Fender CEO Expresses Regret Over Past Legal Actions, Aims to Foster Guitar Design Innovation
In short
Edward 'Bud' Cole says Fender wants to "help" other brands move away from the Stratocaster design to create something "unique to the naked eye" – but who defines unique?
Originally published by
MusicRadar
Fender CEO Edward 'Bud' Cole has stated regret regarding the company's past campaign of issuing cease-and-desist letters concerning Stratocaster-style guitars. However, Cole indicated that these actions were intended to encourage other manufacturers to move away from the iconic design.
The company's stated goal is to foster innovation and inspire the creation of unique guitar designs. Cole emphasized Fender's desire to