Michelin to protect tread pattern designs against copying

Clermont-Ferrand - Michelin is to step up efforts to defend its intellectual property against those who copy or otherwise offer unauthorised reproductions of its tyre tread patterns.

In a statement, Michelin said it is determined to extend its fight against companies - retreaders, mould manufacturers or others - which manufacture or sell treads, retreaded tyres or moulds that copy Michelin's tread patterns. Michelin specifically excluded companies which may validly do so as licensees of Michelin group companies from this threat.

The statement continued, "Michelin will first focus on the copies of those products embodying 'Michelin Durable Technologies', which were introduced from January 1, 2005. Michelin will take any and all steps including legal actions, necessary to vigorously enforce all its rights including its intellectual property rights."

Michelin continued, "It is worth noting that, even though they may look alike, counterfeit tyres, overall, should not be expected to demonstrate the same Michelin performance (notably in terms of grip, lifespan and fuel efficiency) which the market has come to expect from tyres manufactured by Michelin or by Michelin licensees using products manufactured by Michelin.