Tokyo Court Rejects 3-Ply Toilet Paper Claim

Aug 22, 2024 | News On Japan

TOKYO - The Tokyo District Court has ruled against Nippon Paper Crecia, rejecting its claim of patent infringement by Daio Paper in a lawsuit over a specific type of toilet paper technology. Nippon Paper Crecia, known for its 'Scottie' brand, had filed the lawsuit against Daio Paper, the company behind the 'Elleair' brand, seeking to halt the production of certain products.

The dispute centered around Nippon Paper Crecia's patented technology that allows a single roll of toilet paper to be three times longer while maintaining softness. The company argued that Daio Paper's 3.2-ply rolls, which it sells, were a direct imitation of their product.

However, in its ruling on the 21st of this month, the Tokyo District Court dismissed the claims, stating that there was no infringement of Nippon Paper Crecia's patent rights.

Daio Paper's Head of Intellectual Property, Seiji Hamahata, commented, "Such product categories should not be monopolized by a single company; rather, all companies should work together to stimulate the market. Unfortunately, Nippon Paper Crecia seems to have a different perspective."

On the other hand, Nippon Paper Crecia expressed its dissatisfaction with the ruling, stating that it is "completely unacceptable" and intends to appeal the decision.

Source: ANN

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