Energizer sues Spectrum over alleged patent infringement

[Metropolitanjury]

Energizer Holdings Inc. said Monday it filed a lawsuit against Spectrum Brands, alleging the company's lithium batteries infringe on two of its patents.

Energizer said it believes that Spectrum Brands' Rayovac lithium batteries infringe on two of its patents, according to the complaint, filed in federal court in Wisconsin.

Spectrum Brands, formerly Rayovac Corp. of Madison, Wis., recently sold the batteries at a "major U.S. retailer," said Energizer, which didn't name the specific retailer.

In the complaint, Energizer is seeking unspecified damages and has asked the court for both a preliminary and permanent injunction against future infringing activity.

Spectrum Brands Inc. based in Atlanta, refutes the claims and said it would "vigorously defend itself against the complaint."

"Spectrum has recently introduced its lithium product at retail in an effort to provide consumers with a lower cost alternative," the company said in a statement. "Sales of lithium batteries are not expected to have a material impact on the Spectrum's 2008 or 2009 financial results."

St. Louis-based Energizer Holdings Inc. manufactures batteries, flashlights and shaving products.

By Ms.Bobby Aanand, Metropolitan Jury