The validity of Unilin’s EP 2 588 311 is confirmed in opposition proceedings before the EPO. The confirmed patent protects a broad range of clic LVT panels using fiberglass, irrespective of the type of locking mechanism used. This decision can have important consequences for current and future patent cases.

On the 25th of March 2019, Flooring Industries (Unilin IP), together with its affiliated companies, Mohawk Industries and IVC US, filed a complaint in the US based on Section 337 of the US Tariff Act before the International Trade Commission (ITC). The complaint requests an exclusion order preventing the unlawful importation of vinyl products that infringe certain Unilin IP patents. Unilin IP is seeking a “general exclusion order” to empower US customs to block all patent infringing vinyl products at the US border.

On the 20th of March 2019, The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) issued a notice of allowance for patent application 16/160,120. The granted Unilin patent will protect the combination of SPC cores with a top layer of melamine-treated paper or wood-veneer. SPC products with such top surfaces are being introduced by many of Unilin’s licensed partners.