In a recent press release Hewlett Packard announced that it was taking legal action worldwide against suppliers of compatible ink cartridges. In the Netherlands, Hewlett Packard has initiated action against three suppliers, claiming that their newly manufactured cartridges compatible with HP 364 and HP 920 infringe two of their patents.
They have also filed a second complaint alleging "..unfair competition for the act of selling newly manufactured toner cartridges as “totally rebuilt”, intentionally misleading consumers that the product is recycled and remanufactured."
Cases have also been filed in Spain, Poland, the United States and China, alleging infringement of patents in newly manufactured compatible ink cartridges.
In Poland, Hewlett Packard has closed settlements with four companies and the companies have agreed to no longer sell the cartridges, compensate HP for legal costs and even destroy remaining inventory.
Matthew Barkley, program manager, Worldwide IP and Brand Protection for Hewlett Packard said: “HP’s investments in high technology products and intellectual property are the core of HP’s competitive differentiation, and the source of value to our customers, partners and shareholders. HP remains committed to ensuring its IP remains protected, and will go where necessary to protect those investments.”
