Lexmark International is a worldwide laser printer and imaging company with over $3.7 billion in annual revenue. Impression Products, on the other hand, has 25 employees and less than $15 million in annual sales. Yet this small business David took a Goliath to the Supreme Court, and won.
In what could be a big win for small businesses nationwide, the Court held that subsequently purchasing an already-sold and patented item does not violate patent law. And just like that, a seemingly esoteric corner of intellectual property law could mean millions for consumers and small businesses.
