Tool at the discounter
Plagiarism accusation: Lidl warned for tools
At Lidl there are not only food but also other products. Now the discounter gets trouble – because of an offered control cabinet key.
The Wuppertal tool manufacturer Knipex is legally proceeding against Lidl. The food discounter had a control cabinet key to the company replaced and there was a patent rights, said Knipex boss Ralf Putsch of the German Press Agency. He spoke of a “shameless” approach because of the great similarity of the copy. At the request of the dpa, Lidl said: “Please understand that we do not want to comment on ongoing legal disputes.”
Knipex warned the discounter based in Neckarsulm and the importer of the tool. Lidl was asked to sign a cease and desist declaration and not to sell the control cabinet key of the Parkside’s own brand. If there is a violation, a contractual penalty threatens. In addition, further information on the product is to be disclosed such as manufacturing quantities and profit achieved.
With the tool, for example, heating, sanitary or other technical systems can be opened and closed in buildings.
Experience with patent injuries
We have never experienced Knipex boss Putsch surprised by the case: “We have never experienced that a German company does something like that of a format like Lidl. If you launch such a product, you first check what property rights there are.” Knipex has more experienced experience with patent injuries and plagiarism. Usually with platforms such as Temu and Ebay, said Putsch.
The tool manufacturer was founded in Wuppertal in 1882 and claims to be the leading specialist for pliers worldwide. According to the website, 60,000 pieces are produced every day, which are sold in over 100 countries. The Knipex Group employs 2600 people in total.
dpa
Source: Stern
