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Garmin and Johnson Outdoors announce patent litigation settlement

Posted by editor on May 6, 2016

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Garmin International, Inc. and Johnson Outdoors Inc. today announced the companies have reached agreement on a settlement which resolves litigation involving Johnson Outdoors’ patented side scan sonar technology. Today’s announcement follows the International Trade Commission’s (ITC) rulings in the matter affirming infringement by Garmin of one Johnson Outdoors’ patent and non-infringement of two Johnson Outdoors’ patents.  The agreement, which includes the licensing of these patents to Garmin, will bring closure to related legal matters pending before the ITC, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit and U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama. Terms of the agreement are confidential. 

“Innovation is our lifeblood and what Johnson Outdoors has delivered consistently for nearly 50 years.  It is the driving force behind our legacy of continuous growth and success.  This is why we invest heavily in development and protection of our proprietary innovation and vigorously defend it against unauthorized use. Today’s announced settlement and licensing agreement are the latest acknowledgements of the validity of our side scan sonar patents by our competitors as affirmed consistently by the courts,” said Helen Johnson-Leipold, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Johnson Outdoors.

“Garmin recognizes Johnson Outdoors and Humminbird’s innovation in side scan fishfinder technology,” said Cliff Pemble, President and CEO, Garmin International, Inc.  “We understand that patents are a great accomplishment, a prized achievement by innovation leaders, including Johnson Outdoors and Humminbird®. We are pleased with the amicable resolution of this matter and respect Johnson Outdoors for working with Garmin to license this technology.” 

About Garmin International Inc. Garmin International Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN). Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Garmin is a registered trademark and SideVuTM is a trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries.  All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

ABOUT JOHNSON OUTDOORS INC. JOHNSON OUTDOORS is a leading global outdoor recreation company that turns ideas into adventure with innovative, top-quality products.  The company designs, manufactures and markets a portfolio of winning, consumer-preferred brands across four categories: Watercraft, Marine Electronics, Diving and Outdoor Gear.  Johnson Outdoors' familiar brands include, among others: Old Town® canoes and kayaks; Ocean Kayak™ and Necky®kayaks; Carlisle® paddles; Extrasport® personal flotation devices; Minn Kota® motors; Cannon® downriggers; Humminbird®marine electronics and charts; SCUBAPRO® dive equipment; Silva® compasses; Jetboil® outdoor cooking systems; and Eureka!® camping and hiking equipment.