Apple has been given the green light to register the layout of its stores as an official trademark.

The European Court of Justice has overturned a decision to refuse a trademark application for the layout of the stores. Authorities in Germany had originally refused the company's application.

The decision means the technology giant can now register the typical minimalist layout of its stores as a trademark. They can also charge other retailers for copying the layout.

The ruling states that "design alone, without indicating the size or the proportions, of the layout of a retail store, may be registered as a trade mark for services consisting in services relating to those goods but which do not form an integral part of the offer for sale thereof, provided that the sign is capable of distinguishing the services of the applicant for registration from those of other undertakings".

You can read the full ruling on the Court of Justice's website.

The distinctive Apple Stores and their layout played a significant role in Steve Jobs' plans to push a new image for Apple products in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Over 400 stores have been opened around the world.

There is currently no Apple Store in the Republic of Ireland, although there is one in Belfast.