French luxury group Kering, Alibaba Group and its affiliate Ant Financial Services have come to a groundbreaking agreement to cooperate in their efforts to protect intellectual property and take joint enforcement actions online and offline against infringers in order to provide the best consumer experience and a trusted environment. As part of the agreement, Kering has agreed to dismiss the lawsuit filed against Alibaba and Alipay, an Ant Financial subsidiary, in the US district court in New York.

Joint task force

The landmark agreement between the luxury group, home to some of the world’s most desired luxury brands, and Alibaba’s e-commerce marketplaces is a major breakthrough on anti-counterfeiting. The new partnership represents a milestone in both parties’ investment and efforts to protect brands’ intellectual property rights. The companies have established a joint task force with the purpose of collaborating fully, exchanging useful information, and working closely with law enforcement bodies to take appropriate action against infringers of Kering’s brands identified with Alibaba’s advanced technology capabilities.

Proactive

In a statement, Kering said it will 'continue to vigorously enforce their intellectual property rights against individuals and third parties responsible for the production, distribution and sale of unauthorised materials in China and throughout the world. This agreement reflects the parties’ firm belief that taking proactive measures and using advanced technology will help law enforcement bodies and other relevant authorities address the challenges of intellectual property infringement.'

Kering empire

Kering owns a group luxury houses in fashion, leather goods, jewellery and watches including: Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Brioni, Christopher Kane, McQ, Stella McCartney, Tomas Maier, Boucheron, Dodo, Girard-Perregaux, Pomellato, Qeelin and Ulysse Nardin. It is also involved in developing sport and lifestyle brands Puma, Volcom and Cobra.