Gore-Tex Monopoly Outdoor Supplies Market Facing Europe And America

Climbers and cyclists learn High price purchase "Gore-Tex" material waterproof equipment, but the industry alleged that its high price does not come from. function Superiority is the result of unlawful suppression of competition.

Therefore, the W.L.Gore&AssociatesInc. company that produces Gore-Tex textiles is facing the antitrust investigation of European and American authorities. The industry claims that Gore has tied its opponents through market influence.

According to people familiar with the matter, the EU executive committee will issue a questionnaire to Gore and other companies in response to complaints from other industries, and is ready to initiate a preliminary investigation.

The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has made a faster progress. Antitrust As part of the investigation, FTC sent a summons to Gore in March.

ColumbiaSportswearCo., a US outdoor product manufacturer, said last week that it had formally appealing to the European Commission's anti-monopoly authorities for Gore.

Columbia bought the OutDry technology last year, according to the Italy invention team, its performance surpasses 40 year old Gore-Tex.

Gore refutes accusation, claiming that the most innovative and best product is the company's success.

The OutDry development team says many large climbing boots glove The manufacturer reacted well to OutDry, but the technology still couldn't hold the market because Gore demanded the exclusive licensing of the brand.

Columbia claims that many outdoor brands are worried about losing Gore-Tex authorization, which leads consumers to misunderstand that Gore-Tex is the only choice for waterproofing and breathability on the market.