Operator News
Germany – Berlin court dismisses Novomatic’s infringement claims against EGT
By Phil - 28 June 2017
The District Court of Berlin has dismissed Novomatic AG’s claim for injunctive relief, information and damages against Euro Games Technology.
In October, 2016, Novomatic AG informed via a press release that it was initiating court proceedings against Euro Games Technology based in Sofia and its German sales partner D-Systems GmbH.
Novomatic took the view that several games offered by Euro Game Technology ‘systematically and unfairly use essential elements (including the reel strips) of well-established Novomatic games.’ Immediately following the oral hearing on May 9, 2017, the District Court of Berlin outlined that claims of Novomatic may neither be based on trademark law nor on competition law. The District Court of Berlin did not recognise an illegitimate use of essential game elements.
Vladimir Dokov, CEO of EGT, commented: “We were very confident that the District Court of Berlin would dismiss the claim. We considered the allegations as unfounded from the beginning, as our products are highly innovative and our R&D department focuses on current and modern technologies. We will continue to expand our market position on the basis of our own developments and advanced know-how.”
Novomatic said it was checking the decision of the court in detail and that it was very likely that the company would file an appeal.
