Cree’s complaint that a competitor and its supplier have violated eight of its patents and engaged in unfair trade has won the attention of the U.S. International Trade Commission. The ITC has launched a formal investigation.
The ITC disclosed its intention in a formal notice issued Thursday.
Cree (Nasdaq: CREE) asked the ITC to investigate its claims on Jan. 12.
The targets are Feit Electric Company and its supplier, Unity Opto Technology, which is based in Asia.
Cree says eight patents were violated. They apply to LED lighting.
The Durham-based company also claimed Feit has made “false and misleading advertising claims” about products such as meeting “ENERGY STAR” specifications.
“We’re pleased with the ITC’s decision to open an investigation into this matter,” said Chuck Swoboda, Cre’s chairman and CEO, in a statement. “With nearly $1B investment in developing the fundamental technology that underlies LED lighting adoption, it is our obligation to protect our intellectual property. Through their actions, Feit and Unity Opto are enjoying an unfair advantage in the market and discouraging the development of new products that benefit consumers.”
In the announcement, the FTC declared:
“Having considered the complaint, the U.S. International Trade Commission, on February 11, 2015, ORDERED THAT – (1) Pursuant to subsection (b) of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended, an investigation be instituted …”
The complaint can be read online at: http://www.usitc.gov/secretary/fed_reg_notices/337/337_947_notice02122015sgl.pdf
