The German sporting goods giant Puma sued a shop in Zhongshan (Guangdong) for distributing counterfeit sneakers.  The trial court, Zhongshan Intermediate People's Court recently affirmed Puma's claim and ordered the defendant to indemnify 40,000 yuan to Puma in damages.

In 2007 end, several shoppers bought a pair of sneakers at 60 yuan, a pair of pants at 90 yuan and a messenger bag, all affixed with Puma brand, from a department store near Xijiao Market in the city's Shaxi Township.  A shop invoice was asked to produce accordingly.  It turned out these were not everyday shoppers.  Some were notaries while others were Puma employees.  The notaries in their official names took photos of the counterfeit goods and sealed them immediately as future lawsuit evidence.

The Court announced its decision immediately after hearing on November 5.  While ordering the 40,000 yuan in damages, it rejected Puma's claims in injunction and public apology in the press.

(China IP News)