Välinge Aluminum glue-free joint patent withstands opposition from Pergo.

Viken, Sweden - November 16, 2001

The Välinge Aluminium patent SE9801986 is of strategic importance, especially for the present glue-free joints on wood floorings and for new types of mechanically connected joints on laminate floorings. The patent is very comprehensive with 27 claims.

On September 6, 2001 Pergo filed a notice of opposition in which they argument that the Swedish Patent Office should revoke the patent. The Patent Office rejected the opposition in all aspects and decided to maintain the patent in the form as granted. The decision is open to appeal.

Välinge Aluminium welcomes the favorable ruling, which strengthens the company’s worldwide patent protection in the field of glue-free mechanical joints for floorings. The market leader of laminate flooring, Pergo has utilized its broad knowledge in the flooring area, and still not been able to find relevant arguments to invalidate the patent.

About Välinge Aluminium
The company Välinge Aluminium AB works in the field of mechanical locking systems for floorings. This work comprises the development of locking systems together with production equipment and techniques. Members of the staff in Välinge Aluminium invented and introduced the laminate flooring 1977, at that time employed by Perstorp AB.

Välinge and its licensees constitute one of the largest flooring groups in the world and they are determined to defend their patent rights against all infringers. Extensive legal actions have been initiated

For further information:
Darko Pervan
Office: +46 42 237815
e-mail: