Casana, Coaster resolve patent dispute
Casana had filed suit last week
Tom Russell -- Furniture Today, October 19, 2009
AT THE MARKET - Casana Furniture and Coaster Co. have settled a patent infringement suit Casana filed against Coaster in October, 2008.
In a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina, Casana alleged that Coaster's Phoenix furniture group infringed on various style elements of Casana's Valencia, Torino, and Rodea furniture groups. It sued Coaster for patent infringement, trade dress infringement, unfair competition and unfair and deceptive practices.
The suit specifically targeted a number of pieces including drawer fronts, a mirror and an ottoman, said Coaster Vice President Charlie Nobile. He acknowledged that the two companies reached a settlement that allows Coaster to continue selling its items without making any changes.
Nobile and Casana officials said the dispute was settled amicably, but declined to disclose the terms.
Casana said Coaster also acknowledged the validity and enforceability of Casana's patent and trade dress rights asserted in the litigation.
Coaster reaches deal in lawsuits
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