#USA #Seoul #Amazon #Hurom #NUC(Kuvings)

Hurom's Latest Victory in Patent Enforcement Against NUC(Kuvings)

In a significant legal development, Hurom, a pioneer in juicing technology, has recently won a patent infringement case against NUC(Kuvings) on Amazon's U.S. platform. This ruling, announced on December 2, 2024, has led to a sales prohibition on several of NUC(Kuvings)'s primary juicer models, marking a decisive moment in the battle for intellectual property rights in the health and wellness sector.

A Legacy of Innovation

Founded in 1974, Hurom has established itself as a leader in the juicing industry, particularly known for its low-speed extraction methods which maintain the nutritional integrity of fruits and vegetables. The introduction of the world's first vertical screw juicer in 2005 set a new standard in the market that continues to resonate with health-conscious consumers. Hurom is dedicated to not only innovating product technology but also promoting a culture of wellness through healthier juicing practices.

Protecting Intellectual Property

As Hurom's prominence in the juicing sector has grown over the past 50 years, the company has faced increasing instances of unauthorized usage of its patented technology across international markets, including the U.S., Europe, and China. In response to these threats, Hurom has fortified its global patent enforcement strategy, set into motion earlier this year. The recent case on Amazon was part of this broad initiative to safeguard its innovations.

The patent violation was identified through Amazon’s APEX (Amazon Patent Evaluation Express) process. This rigorous evaluation involved impartial third-party review, leading to the decision to eliminate infringing products from Amazon’s listings. As of July 11, 2024, a total of five models from NUC(Kuvings), such as REVO830W and C7000 series, were effectively barred from being sold on the platform, significantly impacting NUC(Kuvings)’s market presence.

Further Actions and Investigations

Following this victory, Hurom's legal team has not only pursued further actions within Amazon but is also taking measures in the European Unified Patent Court (UPC). Furthermore, the Korea Trade Commission (KTC) has initiated an investigation against NUC(Kuvings) for alleged unfair trade practices linked to the patent infringements. This multi-pronged approach showcases Hurom’s commitment to enforcing its legal rights and maintaining a fair competitive environment in the juicing industry.

Jaewon Kim, CEO of Hurom, emphasized the importance of this ruling, stating, “We can no longer overlook the unauthorized use of Hurom's patented technology. Through decisive action, we will protect the healthy and fair ecosystem that both Hurom and our customers value.” Yet, he also noted that while the company is firm about protecting its inventions, it remains open to licensing agreements with those genuinely interested in using their technology to promote wellness.

A Dedication to Wellness and Fairness

Hurom's recent actions highlight the growing tension between companies vying for innovation and the need to protect intellectual property rights. As the wellness sector continues to expand, so does the need for stringent protection measures to foster a healthier and fair global ecosystem.

In conclusion, Hurom’s legal triumph over NUC(Kuvings) on Amazon underscores a vital commitment to integrity in the juicing market, ensuring that innovation serves its rightful purpose—enhancing consumer health through high-quality juicing solutions. Companies in the sector are now under increased scrutiny, not only to innovate but to do so within the boundaries of ethical practices and patented rights.

The impact of this case will likely resonate throughout the industry, establishing a precedent for the enforcement of patent protections while fostering an environment that encourages genuine innovation and dedication to consumer health.