In December 2010, Mars filed patent infringement suits against BioPet and PetSafe, and against MMI Genomics, Inc.
Today Mars, Inc., Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and Argus Genetics, LLC announced they have entered into confidential settlement agreements with BioPet Vet Lab, Inc. and Radio Systems Corporation ("PetSafe"), regarding U.S. Patent No. 7,729,863. This settlement concludes the litigation.
While the terms of the agreement are confidential, BioPet will be permitted to process dog DNA samples for a limited period of time for individuals who purchased a BioPet-branded "DNA Breed Identification" kit on or before 15 June 2011.
Mars will process dog DNA samples through 15 December 2011 for individuals who purchased a PetSafe-branded "DNA Breed Identification" kit on or before 15 June 2011. Thus, consumers who purchased mixed-breed DNA tests from BioPet or PetSafe before this date will be able to receive results.
Both BioPet and PetSafe have exited the canine DNA breed identification market. Mars, Inc, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and Argus Genetics, LLC stated they will continue to enforce their patent rights in this market segment.
About Mars Veterinary:
Mars Veterinary is a division of MARS(R) Incorporated, a company known for innovative consumer and pet food brands that are trusted by people around the world. Its mission is to facilitate responsible pet care by enlightening pet owners and communities with valuable insights into their pets as individuals through innovative, science-based discoveries. For nearly a decade, Mars Veterinary has researched and developed state-of-the-art genetic tests for mixed-breed dogs, revolutionizing personalized pet care. By discovering a mixed-breed dog's ancestry, pet owners and veterinarians can work together to tailor wellness programs that fit the one-of-a-kind needs of a mixed-breed dog.
About Mars, Incorporated:
In 1911, Frank C. Mars made the first Mars candies in his Tacoma, Washington kitchen and established Mars' first roots as a confectionery company. In the 1920s, Forrest E. Mars, Sr. joined his father in business and together they launched the MILKY WAY(R) bar. In 1932, Forrest, Sr. moved to the United Kingdom with a dream of building a business based on the philosophy of a "mutuality of benefits" for all stakeholders.
This vision serves as the foundation of the Mars, Incorporated today. Based in McLean, Virginia, Mars has net sales of more than $30 billion and six business segments including Petcare, Chocolate, Wrigley, Food, Drinks and Symbioscience. More than 65,000 associates worldwide are putting Mars Principles into action every day to make a difference for people and for the planet through there performance.
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SOURCE Mars, Incorporated
Michael J. Price, +1-301-444-7900
Mike.Price@mss.effem.com for Mars Veterinary
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