cthat will allow it to resume selling its automated lubrication systems in the US and has hired a new executive director to do so.
The US Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals recently overturned a lower court’s ruling in favour of competitor Groeneveld, which found that Lubecore’s EP-0 grease pump infringed on its trade dress under trademark laws. Lubecore has been required to sell a modified version of the pump to customers in the US since early 2012.
The higher court ruled that differences in labeling, colour and other aspects of the design meant there is “no reasonable likelihood” that consumers would be confused between the two brands.
“One of the judges characterized this dispute as an old-guard supplier using legal means to try to fend off an upstart competitor,” said Jan Eisses, Lubecore president and founder. “While we’re pleased to have prevailed in court, let’s compete in the marketplace on the strength of our products and support of our customers.”
Lubecore has since hired Doug DeJong as executive director of US sales. He’ll be charged with developing the company’s sales and distribution network in the US.
“Doug’s extensive knowledge of the commercial vehicle business in North America makes him an excellent choice for this position,” Eisses said. “His business contacts and understanding of the needs of heavy-duty distributors will be real assets as we grow our presence in the United States.”
