3M and 3M Innovative Properties Co. filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota today against Andover Healthcare Inc. seeking injunctive relief and damages regarding Andover’s CoFlex 2 Layer Compression System.

The suit alleges, among other claims, a strong likelihood of confusion, mistake and deception between Andover’s CoFlex 2 product and 3M’s innovative Coban 2 Layer Compression System arising from Andover’s wholesale appropriation of 3M’s distinctive trade dress, copyrighted packaging and copyrighted instructions. The suit also alleges false advertising and unfair business practices.

Compression therapy is considered a standard of care for treating venous hypertension and venous ulcers, which are a serious problem for many Americans, including the elderly and people with vascular disease or poor circulation. 3M has invested in extensive research and new laboratory methods to improve compression therapy for patients.

3M Coban 2 Layer Compression Systems are clinically proven to comfortably deliver sustained, therapeutic compression to reduce the edema associated with venous leg ulcers, lymphedema and other conditions where compression therapy is appropriate.

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 $23 billion in sales, 3M employs 75,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 65 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com.

3MMedia Contact:Donna Fleming Runyon, 651-736-7646