In 2013, Li Chenxi, a resident of Changchun, opened a small supermarket on Hongqi Street in the Chaoyang District, selling daily necessities. Little did he know that a simple transaction would soon lead to a legal battle. On August 15, 2013, a customer bought two iron padlocks from his store. Days later, Li was unexpectedly taken to court. The buyer turned out to be an attorney acting on behalf of Yantai Sanhuan Lock Industry Group Co., Ltd.
The locks sold by Li had logos that were nearly identical to the registered trademark of Yantai Sanhuan Lock Industry Group Co., Ltd., which is the exclusive owner of the "Sanhuan" brand. The company holds a valid trademark registration certificate issued by the State Trademark Office, and the trademark was still within its renewal period at the time of the incident.
Yantai Sanhuan Lock Industry Group Co., Ltd. claimed that Li's actions constituted trademark infringement. They sought compensation for economic losses and reasonable expenses, totaling 15,000 yuan, and demanded that Li cease the sale of the infringing products.
During the trial, the judge examined the notarized and sealed items in court. A comparison revealed that the identification on the two locks was largely similar to the registered trademarks. Further analysis of the materials and packaging indicated that the infringing goods were not manufactured by Yantai Sanhuan Lock Industry Group Co., Ltd.
After reviewing all evidence, the Changchun Intermediate People’s Court ruled that Li Chenxi must immediately stop selling products that infringe on the plaintiff's trademark rights. Additionally, Li was ordered to compensate Yantai Sanhuan Lock Industry Group Co., Ltd. with 6,000 yuan within 10 days of the judgment becoming effective.
This case highlights the importance of trademark protection and the potential legal consequences of using similar branding without proper authorization. It also serves as a reminder for small business owners to ensure their products are legally compliant and do not inadvertently infringe on others' intellectual property rights.
Rectangular Hollow Section,Hollow Section Steel,Steel Box Profile,Metal Box Section
Guangdong Tianchen Steel Structure Engineering Co. Ltd. , https://www.tcsteeltech.com