LaserPerformance Wins Trademark Infringement Lawsuit

(October 2, 2013) – Beginning in 2012, the Belgium dealer Optiteam BVBA and importer Nautisch Centerum Delfzijl – Tecinvest BV illegally imported Laser and Sunburst branded boats and parts, manufactured by Performance Sailcraft Australia, for distribution into Belgium, The Netherlands and Luxemburg. Nautisch Centerum Delfzijl is also a dinghy builder who with Orange Performance Sailcraft has been designated as an authorized builder of the recently named Kirby Torch.

LaserPerformance, representing Velum Limited the rightful Laser and Sunburst trademark owner in all European countries, initiated a lawsuit against Optiteam and Nautisch Centerum Delfzul for infringing LaserPerformance trademark rights.

On 27 September 2013 the Court of Commerce of Antwerp, Belgium found Optiteam and Nautisch Centerum Delfzijl guilty of trademark infringement, ordered the defendants to immediately cease infringing and fined them for procedural expenses.

LaserPerformance is pleased with the outcome and grateful to the Court for recognizing the blatant attempt to illegally import and distribute illegal Australian Laser products into Europe. LaserPerformance, the world’s largest manufacturer of dinghy sailboats, will continue to vigorously defend its rights and intellectual property around the world.

This manner of conduct should equally be a point of concern for the International Sailing Federation and the International Laser Class Association since it diverts attention from the development of the Class and Laser sailing.

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For further information, please contact:
Rebecca Dellenbaugh
PR Executive, LaserPerformance
Rebecca.Dellenbaugh@LaserPerformance.com