The largest manufacturer of aftermarket imaging systems and components sponsored the R3 conference in Prague late last month.
The event in Prague focused on clones, taking place on 21 and 22 October at the Top Hotel in the Czech city, and saw presentations given by Static Control, MSE, Lexmark, the Czech Republic Recycling Association (CRRA) and other companies and individuals on subjects surrounding clone-free remanufacturing.
Simon Grimes, Static Control’s Global Sales Manager for Eastern Europe, spoke at the event about how OEMs are “fighting back to reclaim their lost market share”, stating: “The OEMs aren’t slowing down in their pursuit of patent rights. Lexmark as an example continues to seek defendants to name in a suit they filed back in May this year.
“It should also be remembered that when patents are infringed, there’s no guarantee of a warning letter before being hit with a lawsuit – they have IP to defend and no reason to forewarn anyone who is breaching it. OEMs are also implementing increased technology to protect their products and already use authentication software to successfully combat counterfeiting. It will only be a matter of time before they start using this to tackle clones.”
The company’s Business Development Manager for Eastern Europe, Martina Prusova, also spoke about how Static Control is “distinguishing its customers from those prepared to risk dealing in clones”, adding: “We actively choose not to source and distribute product from companies associated with clone manufacturers.
“We take IP seriously and produce complete cartridge solutions that consist of innovative technology covered by patents of our own. We have the tools to give our customers an edge on clone manufacturers.”
The company added that it “continues to support any cartridge association or event that is prepared to join in the genuine remanufacturing industry’s fight against clones”, with The Recycler previously reporting on its sponsoring of the event.