PCR Tech and IT retail, distribution and vendor news
Microsoft has announced a landmark High Court settlement with Pyramid Distribution, relating to its illegal importation of software worth millions of pounds of lost revenue to the UK channel.
Admitting liability, Pyramid Distribution accepted it has parallel imported tens of thousands of copies of Microsoft software into the UK that was intended for sales in other countries.
The practise of parallel importing is the importation of software or other goods into a country from another, often where costs are lower, against will or desire of the supplier.
"The judgment against Pyramid represents a major step forward for Microsoft’s anti-piracy efforts," said Microsoft’s head of anti-piracy, Michala Wardell. "It is encouraging to see that after being presented with all the evidence, Pyramid and the individuals behind the company admitted liability for importing software illegally."
"Companies that trade in illegally imported software harm businesses throughout the channel. This case underlines Microsoft’s commitment to taking legal action to protect genuine resellers and their customers. We are determined to continue our efforts to prevent the harm unlawful software in any form causes," she added.
PC Retail has a full interview with Microsoft’s anti-piracy department in the October issue, out next week.
