Lidl Faces Legal Action Over Alleged Patent Violation on Tool Design

German toolmaker Knipex accuses Lidl of copying its patented switch cabinet key and demands a halt to sales and disclosure of product details.

Knipex, a Wuppertal-based tool manufacturer, claims Lidl infringed on its patent by selling a copy of its switch cabinet key under Lidl's Parkside brand.
The tool in question is used for operating technical systems in buildings, such as heating and sanitation units.
Knipex has formally issued a cease-and-desist letter to Lidl and the tool's importer, demanding an end to sales and disclosure of production and profit details.
Knipex CEO Ralf Putsch described Lidl's actions as 'shameless' and expressed surprise that such a violation came from a major German company.
While Knipex frequently encounters patent violations from online platforms, this is a rare case involving a large German retailer.