FAKRO failed with its slanderous campaign against the company VELUX

"We hope that the European Commission's decision will end this long list of complaints against VELUX, which FAKRO has presented to the media and showcased at conferences. We want to focus only on fair competition. We have quality products and above-standard services, so we need nothing more than fair conditions in the markets where we operate," stated VELUX group CEO David Briggs.

FAKRO described this case as an example of the difficult competitive conditions that companies in Eastern Europe face when trying to gain market share in established EU countries.
"In light of the Commission's investigation into this case, we were determined not to comment on the matter. However, our customers have asked us to respond to these accusations. Many of them were directly shocked to learn how far FAKRO was willing to go in criticizing VELUX," added David Briggs.

Briggs refers to what is probably the largest Danish case of industrial espionage, where a high-ranking VELUX employee contacted FAKRO through an intermediary to sell them access to thousands of confidential VELUX documents (secret records from internal meetings regarding customers, products, innovations, and strategies). FAKRO admitted in Polish media that the company's management met several times with two intermediaries regarding a possible purchase of this stolen material.

"This case clearly shows that VELUX and FAKRO have very different views on fair competition. We hope that FAKRO will accept this decision and will devote its time to competing in the market instead of making accusations and launching smear campaigns," stated David Briggs.

Danish police continue to investigate the case of industrial espionage against VELUX.

FAKRO has previously filed several complaints with the competition office against the VELUX group. In 2008, FAKRO focused on several subsidiaries of the VELUX group. Again, the investigation found no violations of competition rules.

What accusations did FAKRO make against the VELUX group? The VELUX group allegedly used a discount system that made it difficult for FAKRO to enter the British, French, and German markets. The VELUX group allegedly used the low-cost brand RoofLITE (now Altaterra) to drive FAKRO out of business. FAKRO claimed that VELUX initiated several lawsuits against it, forcing it to incur enormous costs for its defense (10 lawsuits, including patent infringement and marketing law violations, VELUX won 6 lawsuits, 2 are still ongoing, 2 were not utilized). FAKRO also falsely claimed that distributors in France and Germany refused to work with it out of fear of pressure from VELUX.

About VELUX
For 75 years, the VELUX group has been creating better living conditions for people around the world by providing daylight and fresh air through roof windows. Our product range includes roof windows and products for flat roof lighting as well as a wide range of decorative elements, blinds, roller shutters, installation solutions, and smart controls for homes. These products contribute to ensuring a healthy and sustainable environment indoors for work, study, play, and enjoyment. We operate globally - selling and manufacturing in over 40 countries and employing around 14,500 people worldwide. The VELUX group is owned by VKR Holding A/S, whose shares are held by several foundations and families. For more information, visit www.velux.cz.