Around the Industry: Copyright Infringement at AAPEX

Representatives from MAHLE and the Intellectual Property Office of AAPEX management confiscated parts from numerous exhibitors at the recent AAPEX show in Las Vegas, from November 3-5, 2015, for claims concerning parties who infringed MAHLE’s trademarks and patents and violated the AAPEX show rules. Three trademark infringements were discovered. Two of which resulted in the confiscation of the items from the booth and a warning by AAPEX management relating to the AAPEX rules. MAHLE representatives previously warned one of the companies infringing on MAHLE trademarks.

Additionally, MAHLE representatives found several exhibitors displaying products with MAHLE patent infringements. With its team of IP lawyers and managers and accompanied by AAPEX management, MAHLE confiscated the products from the offending exhibitors. MAHLE explained to each party it actively enforces its intellectual property rights globally and issued stern warnings to each exhibitor.

“MAHLE takes intellectual property very seriously, and we are appreciative of the partnership with AAPEX management in addressing this acute problem in our industry,” said Jon Douglas, general manager, MAHLE Aftermarket North America. “This combined presence sends a strong message to our customers, competitors and most importantly, the criminals planning to do business in this manner. We will vigorously protect the intellectual property rights of MAHLE.”