Amer Sports & Rottefella Reach Agreement Regarding Cross Country Shift & Shift Race Binding Systems
Amer Sports is pleased to announce that, following the ruling issued by the Oslo District Court on October 10, 2024, we have reached an agreement with Rottefella regarding the sale and promotion of the Cross-Country Shift and Shift Race binding systems produced by Salomon and Atomic.
This agreement ensures that retail partners can continue selling existing stock of the Atomic and Salomon binding systems, as well as any items already ordered for the season ahead. Sponsored athletes—including Norwegian athletes—will also be able to use binding systems throughout the upcoming race season.
Rottefella were clearly unimpressed with Amer's conduct, saying "We are happy with the result but have great sympathy for all those affected by this ruling, especially professional athletes in their season preparations and the sports retailers. This kind of uncertainty is the last thing they need.
'Rottefella regrets the inconveniences caused by the situation. However, the responsibility lies entirely with Amer Sports, Salomon, and Atomic. The Oslo District Court’s ruling is clear and states that Amer Sports is guilty of “a grossly negligent patent infringement” and acted in a “highly reprehensible” manner.'
At the time of the judgemenrt Amer said 'Amer Sports acknowledges the ruling issued by the Oslo District Court on October 10, 2024, which prohibits Amer Sports and our brands Salomon and Atomic from selling the Cross-Country Shift and Shift Race binding systems in the Norwegian market. We are disappointed by the outcome and disagree with the decision, as it impacts athletes who have dedicated their lives to their sport and limits consumer choice. While we will comply with the court’s instructions, we are actively evaluating our options and will be appealing this decision.
"We continue to provide innovative products to the entire skiing community. It is important to note that this ruling only applies to the Norwegian market and does not affect anyone who has already purchased our products. As a consumer, if you have purchased a Cross-Country Shift or Shift Race binding, you can continue to use it.
'We respect intellectual property rights and remain confident in the uniqueness and value of our designs and our product teams. Our focus is now on working closely with our athletes and retailers to minimize any disruption and ensure they continue to receive the quality and service they expect from Amer Sports, Salomon, and Atomic.
"We remain committed to innovation and dedicated to serving the skiing community with high-quality products and experiences"