- Ruling Confirms 3M’s Right to Sell Scotch-Brite™ Floor Pads -

The Opposition Division of the European Patent Office (EPO) recently revoked, in its entirety, HTC’s European patent directed to a method for maintaining hard floor surfaces using a flexible pad with diamond particles. The decision was issued as a result of oppositions filed against the patent by 3M Innovative Properties Co. and KGS Diamond Holding B.V., and is subject to appeal.

This decision makes HTC’s European Patent No. 1 702 714 practically unenforceable in the designated European States, with the sole exception of Sweden, where the Stockholm appeal court had previously issued preliminary injunctions - limited to Sweden - against the Swedish Airport Authority and City Papper AB prohibiting their use of 3M™ Scotch-Brite™ Diamond Floor Pads Plus, Purple and Sienna. 3M has filed a nullity action against the Swedish portion of HTC's European patent, and papers will be filed in the Swedish courts seeking an immediate lifting of the injunctions previously issued.

3M has been a supplier of floor pads since the 1950s. Today, 3M’s wide portfolio of floor care products, which includes Scotch-Brite™ floor pads, provides solutions to most floor maintenance needs.

About 3M

A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M’s core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms – often in combination – to a wide array of customer needs. With $25 billion in sales, 3M employs 76,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 60 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com.

Media Contacts:Donna Fleming Runyon, 3M+1-651-736-7646orMarie Sjöqvist/David Williams, 3M Svenska AB+46-8-92 21 00