Signify Targets ETI in Major Patent Lawsuit as New CEO Steps In
Signify North America Corporation, the global lighting powerhouse, has filed a sweeping patent infringement lawsuit against ETI Solid State Lighting Inc. This marks its latest legal move after settling litigation with Keystone Technologies. The timing couldn’t be tougher for ETI, which just welcomed its new CEO, Peter Lena.
A Long-Simmering Dispute Boils Over
The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia received the complaint, which accuses ETI of violating at least nine of Signify’s U.S. patents. These patents cover a wide range of LED innovations, including recessed downlights, wall pack fixtures, and configurable lighting systems.
Signify, formerly known as Philips Lighting, claims ETI has known about its patents since at least 2015. Over the years, Signify says it provided ETI with detailed infringement reports. Despite this, the lawsuit alleges that ETI continued selling products like the Color Preference Downlight and VersaPak Adjustable Wall Pack without making changes or reaching a resolution.
Pete Lena Takes the Helm at a Critical Moment
In late April, ETI appointed Pete Lena as its new CEO. Eva Chan, who previously led the company, now serves on the board of directors.
ETI has framed Lena’s hiring as a key move to expand market share and navigate evolving industry demands. According to the company, Lena’s experience will help guide ETI through its next phase of innovation and growth. However, Pete’s immediate challenge now includes defending the company against one of the biggest players in the global lighting market.
“This lawsuit effectively serves as a ‘welcome’ message to Pete Lena,” commented one industry insider. “Taking over at a time like this adds enormous pressure to ETI’s leadership.”
Claims of Willful Infringement Raise the Stakes
Signify’s lawsuit doesn’t stop at basic patent claims. It accuses ETI of willful infringement, a charge that can lead to enhanced damages — potentially up to three times the original claim — plus attorney fees.
The complaint asks the court for damages, royalties, and an injunction to stop ETI’s sales of the allegedly infringing products. If granted, the injunction could significantly impact ETI’s headquarters and primary distribution center in Flowery Branch, Georgia.
A Legal Battle That Could Shape the Market
With its Keystone dispute resolved, Signify appears ready to enforce its patent rights more aggressively. The message to competitors is clear: Signify will fiercely protect its intellectual property.
For ETI, the legal risks are high. The lawsuit threatens its U.S. market position, product lines, and customer relationships. For Pete Lena, the pressure is immediate. He must balance driving innovation and market expansion with the urgent need to address a high-profile legal battle.
As the case unfolds, the entire industry will watch to see whether Pete can steer ETI toward resolution or mount a strong defense. Either way, the spotlight on ETI — and its new CEO — has never been brighter.
* This article has been edited to remove incorrect information regarding Pete Lena’s background.