Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

WELLAND, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 1, 2012) - CRS Electronics Inc. ("CRS" or the "Company"), (LED.V), a developer and manufacturer of LED lighting, today announced the appointment of Mr. Michael Lam to the position of Chief Financial Officer effective immediately. Mr. Lam replaces the Company's Interim Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Paul Haber.

"We would like to thank Paul for his dedication to CRS both at the Board level and for stepping in to the position as interim CFO in May 2010. We wish him continued success in his future endeavors," said Scott Riesebosch, President of CRS Electronics. "We look forward to working with Michael and will benefit from his experience in the public markets."

Mr. Michael Lam is an experienced Chief Financial Officer having held this position with several public companies including Mega View Digital Entertainment Corp. and Canada Pacific Capital Corp. Since February 2009, he has been self employed in the business of consulting extensively on financial reporting and regulatory matters for public companies. He served as a Senior Manager of Mintz & Partners LLP, an audit, tax, consulting and financial advisory services firm from October 1997 to December 2007. He served as Senior Manager of Deloitte & Touche LLP from January 2008 to January 2009. Mr. Lam served as Group Accountant at Vive Synergies Inc., a manufacturer of special telephone products and as Manager at KPMG (Mauritius). He has been a Director of Mega View Digital Entertainment Corp. since May 2011 and Canada Pacific Capital Corp., since May 28, 2010. Mr. Lam is a Certified Public Accountant (Illinois), qualified as a Chartered Certified Accountant (U.K.) in 1993 and subsequently qualified as a Chartered Management Accountant (U.K.) in 1996.

About CRS

CRS Electronics Inc., a Lighting Facts partner, is a leader in the emerging, rapidly-growing market of high efficiency light-emitting-diode ("LED"), or, solid state lighting ("SSL"). The principal activities of CRS include the development, manufacture and sale, primarily in North America, of indoor lighting such as LED replacement lamps, exterior LED warning lights on school buses, child safety systems for school buses and contract manufacturing of LED circuit boards. CRS plans to be a major supplier of LED lighting solutions for a variety of applications to be developed by CRS on its own and in conjunction with its customers. CRS recently signed a license agreement with Eveready Battery Company Inc., a subsidiary of Energizer Holdings Inc., for CRS to manufacture a range of LED lighting products under the brand name Energizer(R). The CRS LED product line includes the MR16, GU10, PAR 20, PAR 30, PAR 38 and A19. Future products developed by CRS may also be considered by Energizer. (C) 2011 Energizer. Energizer, Energizer bunny design and related graphics are trademarks of Eveready Battery Company, Inc. and are used by CRS Electronics Inc. All other brand names are trademarks of their respective owners. Neither CRS Electronics Inc. nor Eveready Battery Company, Inc. is affiliated with the respective owners of their trademarks.

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws which can be identified by terminology such as "may", "will", "could", "should", "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "intend", "estimate", "projects", "predict", "potential", "continue" or other similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions, including, but not limited in any manner, those disclosed in any other CRS filings, and include availability of sufficient working capital for development and operations, availability of a qualified work force, availability of manufacturing equipment and the ultimate ability execute its business plan on economically favourable terms. While we consider these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to us, they may prove to be incorrect. Actual results may vary from such forward-looking information for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to risks and uncertainties disclosed in other CRS filings at http://www.sedar.com and other unforeseen events or circumstances. Other than as required by law, CRS does not intend, and undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking information to reflect, among other things, new information or future events.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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CRS Electronics Appoints Michael Lam as Chief Financial Officer

Taipei, Taiwan GlacialLight, a division of the experienced technology manufacturer GlacialTech Inc., today announces the expansion of the dimmable LED down light Capella series, GL-DL08DA. This high-performance 8 down light series only consumes 18W and comes with a 3 in 1 (1-10V/PWM/Resistor) dimmable driver allowing the lighting to be adjusted to fit the preferred lighting scenario.

The GL-DL08DA, in the same fashion as the rest of the Capella Series, is a lightweight all-in-one lighting solution combining the LED source with a slim, sleek, and fashionable circular fixture for ease of installation. Energy-efficient and requiring almost zero maintenance; this down light series is a quick and easy money-saving replacement for traditional lighting.

The GlacialLight GL-DL08DA series is an ideal choice of a down light for almost all indoor applications, including commercial lighting, office, hotel, restaurant, shopping mall, and households. This down light's color rendering index (CRI) of up to 80, makes it an especially suitable choice for residential, retail and food outlet lighting. And depending of the scenario, the lighting can be adjusted to fit any situation.

This light source satisfies a very wide variety of general lighting applications thanks to its optimum 120 beam angle. With its bundled dimmable driver, the GL-DL08DA series is able to accept a wide range of input voltages, making it an effective solution for almost all worldwide locations. This down light is compact and lightweight for easy and economical installation and maintenance.

Users can choose from three color variants to suit their application's requirements: the GL-DL08DA-WW with a color temperature of 3000K (Warm White), the GL-DL08DA-NW with a color temperature of 4000K (Neutral White), and the GL-DL08DA-CW with a color temperature of 6000K (Cool White). The GL-DL08DA series down lights provide a power factor of at least 0.88 at 120V AC, and a power factor of at least 0.8 at 240V AC. With a lifespan rated at a very long 30,000 hours, GlacialLight's functional and well-designed down lights outlast the competition and bring years of high-quality, flicker-free light to users.

GlacialLight has designed the GL-DL08DA LED down light series with environmental protection in mind, to be RoHS compliant. In addition, these down lights do not contain hazardous chemicals such as mercury, and do not emit harmful UV or IR rays, making them far more eco-friendly than lighting fixtures based on older technologies. A luminous efficacy of up to 67lm/W helps to reduce energy costs.

GlacialLight is excited to expand the Capella series with the dimmable GL-DL08DA LED down light series.

Product Highlights of GL-DL08DA LED Down Light Series For indoor applications All-in-one bulb and fixture 1-10V/PWM/Resistor dimmable Slim, compact and fashionable design Low power consumption No UV or IR radiation

Specifications: DC Dimmable

Read more about this new product please visit at GlacialLight's website: http://www.glaciallight.com/products/DL08D.htm

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LED Down Light includes 3-in-1 dimmable driver.

MILPITAS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Construction is underway at Apex, a new, modern apartment community anticipated to open in Milpitas in Spring 2013.

Built by Newport Beach-based Lyon Communities, recognized as one of the largest and most respected privately held multi-family real estate companies in California, Apex will feature 1 3 bedroom apartment homes with 1 2 bathrooms and an amazing array of resort-style amenities.

Apex is a brand-new community unlike any rental opportunities in the region, said Suzanne Maddalon, Executive Vice President for Lyon Communities. The resort-style amenities include a rooftop pool and spa, outdoor entertainment area with TV wall, fitness center and game rooms. They will be unmatched in the area and provide an upscale living experience that meets the demands of discerning Silicon Valley renters.

Conveniently located near the South Bay, Apex residents will have easy access to the Silicon Valleys most vibrant employment centers, including San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and Mountain View. The community is within walking distance to the light rail Great Mall station, and close to Highways 880, 680 and 237.

Scheduled to begin leasing in early 2013, Apex is just blocks from the second-largest retail mall in the region, The Great Mall of the Bay Area, which offers more than 1 million square feet of shopping, dining and entertainment options. Additional grocery stores and a big box retailer, Costco, are located near the community as well.

Apex will feature 366 apartment homes ranging from approximately 581 to 1,450 square feet. The homes will include modern, open floorplans with 9-foot ceilings, gourmet kitchens with stainless steel appliances, modern Caesarstone countertops and European style cabinetry, designer fixtures and hardware, oversized tubs in most floorplans, in-home washers and dryers, abundant storage space and will be high-speed data ready.

Club Apex provides residents with an array of rooftop amenities that are an instant escape from the days hectic pace. Those include a luxurious resort-style pool and spa with multiple lounging areas and private cabanas, outdoor entertainment area with TV wall, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a movie theater, billiards and game room, a gourmet demonstration kitchen and Wi-Fi caf. Additional community amenities include multiple courtyard parks with barbeques, picnic and entertainment areas; a group of e-business centers, a yoga/pilates studio and a pet grooming spa.

Our goal is to create a very special community for our residents by providing an environment with amenities and features which appeal to the active lifestyle enjoyed by Silicon Valley residents, said Maddalon.

For more information on Apex, visit http://www.LyonApex.com.

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Lyon Communities Begins Construction on Apex in Milpitas

LAS VEGAS, Oct. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Caesars Entertainment announced today an impressive first wave of tenants to populate The LINQ, the company's $550 million open-air retail, dining and entertainment district located on the 50-yard line of the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. Popular first-to-market concepts and trendsetting brands, such as Brooklyn Bowl and Sprinkles Cupcakes, are among the first tenants to sign onto the project which boasts more than 300,000 square feet of retail, dining and entertainment space. Opening in late 2013, more than 70-percent of the development space is committed under signed leases or letters of intent. With another 15-percent of the space under negotiation, the significant level of interest and demand from potential tenants has pushed The LINQ far ahead of schedule as contrasted with comparable projects at this stage of development.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121001/AQ84069)

"We've compiled a dynamic first group of retailers, restaurateurs and entertainment impresarios to achieve a unique and one-of-a-kind experience," said Gary Loveman, chairman, president and chief executive officer for Caesars Entertainment. "Rather than adding additional gaming space or more rooms into an already room-rich market, we've designed The LINQ and its distinctive set of tenants to create an entertainment experience unlike any other currently available in Las Vegas. We believe this experience is something our current visitors will enjoy, as well as appeal to and attract a new set of customer."

Caesars in collaboration with Caruso Affiliated, owner and operator of the popular Los Angeles shopping district The Grove, hand-selected the first wave of tenants to establish an atmosphere for The LINQ that will appeal to the region's growing Gen X and Gen Y (ages 21-46) clientele. While The LINQ is designed to attract a slightly younger consumer, it will hold broad appeal for the more than 20.4 million people who currently pass the site annually. Sitting directly across from Caesars Palace and nestled between the Imperial Palace Resort and Casino to the north and Flamingo Resort and Casino to the south, The LINQ is within reasonable walking distance of more than 24,000 hotel rooms. An impressive 130-foot tall three-sided, full LED paneled pylon sign will mark the project's Las Vegas Boulevard entrance while the world's tallest observation wheel, the 550-foot Las Vegas High Roller, will serve as the focal point for The LINQ from the rear and is expected to become a top Las Vegas attraction. Adjacent to the High Roller sits several acres of programmable festival space that The LINQ operators will organize with outdoor events throughout the year.

"The LINQ offers a shopping, dining and entertainment experience that can't be found anywhere else in Las Vegas," said Rick J. Caruso, founder and chief executive officer of Caruso Affiliated."With its stunning architecture and landscaping, diverse mix of world-class retailers and restaurants, and round-the-clock entertainment -- all anchored by the excitement and romance of the majestic High Roller -- The LINQ will be a 'must-go' destination for Las Vegas visitors and residents alike. We couldn't imagine a more inspiring and exciting project to represent our first foray into the Las Vegas market.It's going to forever change the way people think about shopping and entertainment in this great city. "

Caruso Affiliated, known and respected for building the most unique and highly successful and award winning retail projects in the nation, has worked with Caesars on The LINQ for more than two years providing design, merchandising and leasing strategy. Designed as a hub of social activity and connectivity, distinct experiences programmed throughout the day and night will further distinguish The LINQ. Unlike other Las Vegas entertainment experiences aside from the casino floor The LINQ will be programmed and activated a full 24-hours a day.

"The LINQ will cater to a wide variety of audiences and will serve as a location for a wide range of functions be it a business meeting, bachelor party, family outing, first date, or ladies night out," said Jon Gray, vice president and general manager of The LINQ. "No matter what the time of day, there will be something for you at The LINQ; from the time you get up in the morning, seeking a cup of coffee, to the time you're ready to call it a night, with one last drink or quick bite. We are creating an experience that currently does not exist within the market. The development and its impressive list of tenants will re-define the center Strip and become a must-visit attraction."

Comprised of diverse retail, dining, and entertainment experiences, the first wave of tenants to join The LINQ include the following:

While current signed tenants include a mix of dining, live entertainment and retail concepts, additional leases are being finalized in the apparel, eyewear, electronics, accessories, and athletic/sports boutique categories as well as quick serve dining, unique bars and iconic restaurants from across the country.

The LINQ retail, dining and entertainment experience is on schedule to open in 2013. Caesars estimates The LINQ will employ about 3,000 construction workers and create approximately 1,500 permanent jobs upon opening.

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Caesars Entertainment Reveals Impressive Roster of Trendsetting Brands to Join The LINQ

LAS VEGAS (FOX5) -

It's not opening for another 14 months, but its retail and restaurant space is filling up fast. LINQ, anopen-air entertainment district being built between The Imperial Palace and The Flamingo, is already at 70 percent capacity.

"The economy is coming back, people are coming back to Las Vegas, visitorship is up and we have a prime location," said LINQ Vice President and General Manager Jon Gray.

Among the companies already committing to space at the LINQare: Yard House, Tilted Kilt, a pub and eatery, and Off the Strip, a Bistro. Gray said 20 million people walk past the area every year and when the LINQ opens it will generate more foot traffic.

UNLV gaming expert David Schwartz is not surprised by the interest in LINQ.

"I think it shows the retail community is responding to what LINQ is, which is differentthan what we've seen in Vegas," he said.

LINQ will be catering to the Gen X and Gen Y clientele, Gray said. Fifty percent of visitors to Las Vegas by 2015 will be between the ages of 21 and 46.

In addition to retail and restaurant space, LINQ will be home to the High Roller Observation wheel. The $550 million construction project is employing 3,000 construction workers, and when completed will employ 1,500 full-time retail and food service workers. It's set to open in December 2013

Copyright 2012 KVVU (KVVU Broadcasting Corporation). All rights reserved.

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LINQ filling up fast

Published: Monday, October 1, 2012, 12:01 a.m.

Even on a recent work day, plenty of shoppers strolled up and down the covered outdoor promenade between stores and munched in the food court. Construction work to add more than 100,000 square feet of retail space ground on nearby. The work is visible to drivers whooshing past on I-5.

The outlet center in Quil Ceda Village has performed so well -- even in this sputtering economy -- that its owner, Simon Property Group, is adding around 14 stores' worth of retail space.

The project is expected to be completed by the middle of 2013. A new parking garage is already finished.

The success of the outlet center is a stark contrast to the fortunes of some of the owners of Everett Mall, who faced foreclosure earlier this summer.

"The appeal is our large collection of designer labels and name brands at great savings," said Mark Johnson, general manager of Seattle Premium Outlets.

Or, to put it another way, in good days, consumers enjoy a bargain and in bad times, they need it, said Linda Humphers, the editor of Value Retail News, an outlet industry trade publication based in Clearwater, Fla.

"Outlets have always done well in a difficult economy," she said. "They seem to be resistant to flattening."

The outlet industry is a small segment of the retail industry but it's growing. Nationally, there are 185 outlets, according to Value Retail News' State of the Outlet Industry report for 2012. Ten of those have opened in the past 18 months. Compare that to around 100,000 shopping centers in the U.S.

Even now when times are tough, outlet sales continue to grow. The trade publication estimates total industry sales at $25.4 billion this year. That's $3 billion higher than the estimate for 2011.

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Big addition to Seattle Premium Outlets to open next year

PALO ALTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Big Switch Networks, the leading platform-independent Software-Defined Networking (SDN) vendor, announced the appointment of Rob Sherwood as the chair of the Open Networking Foundations (ONF) new Architecture & Framework Working Group (ArchWG). The ONF ArchWG will map out the scope of SDN in terms of architecture and framework for OpenFlow and other components. Robs appointment reinforces Big Switch Networks technical leadership in SDN, and underscores the joint commitment between Big Switch Networks, the ONF, and its member companies to deliver open, standards-based implementations of SDN and OpenFlow.

The ONF ArchWG is charged with defining and scoping the ONF's efforts around all aspects of SDN including terminology, motivations, use-cases, interfaces, and APIs along with their relation to the work of other standards bodies. The Northbound API (NBAPI) activity, starting with a comprehensive analysis of requirements and currently available solutions including data models, is an important component of the ArchWG and reflects a naturally high interest in the critical linking of an OpenFlow substrate with a rich, programmable control and services environment above. A new, focused activity in the ArchWG on Carrier Requirements will assure a strong voice from the service-provider community in the articulation of architectural elements and frameworks. As chair, Rob will be charged with leading all technical discussions, managing one of the ONFs most strategic working groups, under the direction of the Board of Directors.

The efforts of the Architecture and Framework Working Group are of central importance to all of ONFs work and to everyone interested in SDN, said Dan Pitt, executive director of the Open Networking Foundation. This working group will help us advance the adoption of SDN and the OpenFlow protocol, and the deep SDN expertise possessed by active ONF members will lead the industry to rapidly utilize the OpenFlow framework for implementation on hardware forwarding, hypervisor, and applications targets as well as the all-important provision of valuable services built on the OpenFlow foundation.

Rob Sherwood is Principal Architect at Big Switch Networks, where he developed and evangelized the emerging OpenFlow standard and network virtualization. He has been heavily involved in the standards development and evolution since OpenFlow 0.82 and was most recently vice-chair for the ONF Testing & Interoperability Working Group; he has also been recognized twice as an ONF Outstanding Technical Contributor. Rob prototyped the first OpenFlow-based network hypervisor, the FlowVisor, allowing production and experimental traffic to safely co-exist on the same physical network. Prior to that he was involved in various standards efforts, including the Peer-to-Peer IRTF group, and spent 15 years in networking as an administrator, researcher, and programmer. Rob is a frequent speaker on OpenFlow and open standards and recently presented at the Open Network Summit, NANOG, and numerous customer and partner events. He earned a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Maryland, College Park.

Dan Talayco, another Member of the Technical Staff at Big Switch Networks, serves as vice-chair of the ONFs Hybrid Programmable Forwarding Plane Working Group and was recognized as the Unsung SDN Hero by SDNCentral for his contributions to advance SDN.

The Architecture Working Group is the ONF's effort to take stock of all the various moving pieces that fall under the very broad umbrella of 'SDN' and group them together under a coherent framework and vocabulary. We believe this is the most important work within the ONF at this time and believe that under Robs technical leadership the ONF will quickly accelerate delivery of vendor-independent OpenFlow and SDN products and services, said Guido Appenzeller, CEO and co-founder of Big Switch Networks.

About Big Switch Networks

Big Switch Networks is theleading platform-independent Software-Defined Networking (SDN) vendor. The company's highly scalable Open SDNTMarchitecture leverages industry standards and open APIs that enable customers to deploy dynamic and flexible networking applications, including data center network virtualization. Big Switch Networks is backed by the largest SDN ecosystem of OpenFlow applications and physical and hypervisor switches. The companys commercial controller, network virtualization, and applications, which accelerate delivery of cloud services, are in customer trials today. Big Switch Networks was founded in 2010 by Guido Appenzeller and Kyle Forster. For more information, visit:

http://www.bigswitch.com

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Big Switch Networks Rob Sherwood Appointed Chair of Open Networking Foundation’s OpenFlow Architecture & Framework ...

NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --STV has acquired ARCHITECTURE/vbn (VBN), an award-winning architectural design firm based in Oakland, California. VBN will be integrated into STV's West Coast operations.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120131/NY44947LOGO-b)

"VBN's talented employees share our commitment to excellence," said Dominick M. Servedio, P.E., STV executive chairman. "We have known this firm for many years, and have always been impressed with their portfolio of work. I am excited to welcome VBN into STV's family."

Founded in 1958, VBN serves education, transportation, government and commercial clients, and has extensive experience in the design of transit facilities. They bring an established and highly-regarded presence in Northern California to STV. The firm is also a registered green business.

"STV and VBN have been working together to seamlessly integrate our corporate cultures," said Milo E. Riverso, Ph.D., P.E., CEO and president of STV. "This is a great match. VBN's excellent skill-set strengthens STV's services, so we can better serve our existing clients in the Western region."

VBN's work encompasses large- and small-scale projects, consisting of intermodal terminals, bus facilities, light rail, rail stations and transit centers. VBN's notable projects in these areas include the Millbrae Station for the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) System, the Transit Mall Station for Long Beach Transit; the Richmond Intermodal Station for the Contra Costa Transportation Advisory Committee; and multiple stations for the California High Speed Rail project, including three stations from Fresno to Bakersfield.

VBN also has a very strong educational portfolio. They provide full architecture, planning, and interior design services for educational clients such as community colleges and public and private universities. Recent assignments include Academic Joint Use Facility, City College of San Francisco; College of Marin, Indian Valley Academic Complex, Novato; and the Cesar E. Chavez Education & Early Childhood Education Center, Oakland.

Eli Naor, AIA, who was one of the principals at VBN, is joining STV at a vice president and will head the California Facilities group.

"This acquisition brings VBN's excellent reputation in our market areas in Northern California to STV," Naor said. "We will utilize our know-how and innovative skills to help STV further succeed in California and enhance its national presence."

Naor is a registered architect in California and Utah. He holds a Master of Architecture and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Design from the University of California at Berkeley. He is a member of numerous professional organizations.

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STV Acquires California Firm ARCHITECTURE/vbn

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Oct. 1, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Paul Davis Restoration, Inc., a national franchise company and leading provider of fire, water and mold damage restoration services for residential and commercial properties is participating in this year's National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) Fire Prevention Week, October 7-13. This year's theme is, Have 2 Ways Out and for children, Be Rabbit Ready.

According to NFPA, when fire strikes, a home could be engulfed in smoke and flames in just a few minutes. Have a home fire escape plan that prepares families to think fast and get out quickly when the smoke alarm sounds. If escape routes are blocked, two ways out should be a key part of an evacuation plan. Focus on the importance of fire escape planning and practice. Most importantly, have two ways out of every room through windows and doors. A fire escape or ladder from window exits is imperative.

In 2011, U.S. fire departments responded to more than 1.3 million fires. These fires resulted in more than 3,000 civilian fire fatalities, and 17,500 civilian fire injuries along with an estimated $11 billion in direct property loss. Home fires caused 84 percent of civilian fire deaths. Visit http://www.fpw.org.

J. "Sonny" Bass, Paul Davis' Technical Director of Emergency Services suggests additional tips to help keep homeowners and their families safe:

During the awareness campaign, Paul Davis offices across the U.S. in concert with fire industry professionals will help to spread the word in their communities about the importance of fire safety.

About Paul Davis:

Paul Davis Restoration, Inc., a subsidiary of FirstService Corporation (FSRV) (FSV.TO), is a national franchisor and leading provider of restoration services for residential and commercial properties since 1966. Paul Davis Restoration also provides complete remodeling services and has franchise locations throughout North America with owners and technicians who are certified by The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Visit the website at http://www.pdrestoration.com.

The Paul Davis Restoration Inc. logo is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=11820

About FirstService Corporation:

FirstService Corporation is a global leader in the rapidly growing real estate services sector, providing a variety of services in commercial real estate, residential property management and property services. As one of the largest property managers in the world, FirstService manages more than 2.3 billion square feet of residential and commercial properties through its three industry-leading service platforms: Colliers International, one of the largest global players in commercial real estate; FirstService Residential Management, the largest manager of residential communities in North America; and Property Services, one of North America's largest providers of property-related services delivered through franchise and contractor networks.

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Water and Fire Damage Restoration Company, Paul Davis, Offers Tips to Consumers During Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 7-13

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Emeco Industries, Inc., the genuine handcraft company based in Hanover, Pennsylvania, today sued home furnishing giant Restoration Hardware and its former CEO and present Creator and Curator Gary Friedman, asserting claims for trade dress and trademark counterfeiting and infringement.

The lawsuit, filed in San Francisco in the United States District Court, alleges that Restoration Hardware has engaged in willful and flagrant infringement of Emecos trade dress and trademark rights for its world-renowned Navy Chair by selling a series of cheap knockoffs with the near-identical Naval Chair name that copy verbatim the iconic and highly distinctive design of the Navy Chair. The irreparable harm caused by Restoration Hardware, an established company, to Emecos reputation and significant goodwill is massive, incomparable to that caused by a typical, small-time counterfeiter. Emeco has filed this action to halt that harm and protect its exclusive rights. Emeco seeks a preliminary and permanent injunction to stop Restoration Hardwares unlawful conduct and the damages to which the law entitles it.

The allegedly illegally manufactured counterfeits also include the, Navy Armchairs, Navy Barstools and Navy Counter stools. Featured on page 94 of the Fall 2012 Restoration Hardware catalog is a photo layout of no less than four Naval Chairs and Naval Stools, exact counterfeits of Emecos Navy Chair Collection.

Emecos quality guarantee of The Navy Chair is the result of elaborate and precise specifications developed by the U.S. Navy in 1944 in conjunction with ALCOA Aluminum. These specifications are still used by the craftsmen at Emeco in a unique 77-step process that meets the most stringent American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) standards. The chairs are tested to last 150 years.

Emeco is an American success story that has demonstrated to the market its value and sustainability, said Emeco CEO Gregg Buchbinder. We create American jobs and work with the best designers to manufacture a product respected and sought after around the world. For us, stealing our Navy Chair design is like stealing the Nike Swoosh or the Mercedes Benz logo, and then exploiting our brand and reputation to produce an inferior product.

Restoration Hardware distributed approximately 26.1 million catalogs nationwide in its last fiscal year. By allegedly hijacking the Emeco brand, consumers are likely to believe that the products Restoration Hardware sells are genuine, legitimate articles. Restoration Hardware has prominently marketed and advertised its chairs and stools with the Naval name in its print catalog and on its website.

Restoration Hardware stated in its pre-IPO filings that, at our core we are not designers, rather we are curators and composers of inspired design and experiences. By [e]xternally discover[ing] and curat[ing] others designs, as opposed to [i]nternally design[ing] and develop[ing] its own products, Restoration Hardware can cut the product development process from 12-18 months lead time to 3-9 months lead time and reduce product costs. By contrast, it takes Emeco approximately 2 to 4 years to design, prototype, research and develop, engineer, and tool to launch a product that will last a lifetime.

Emeco has been the leading manufacturer of handcrafted aluminum chairs for 68 years. The company remains committed to the principles and values that built the business in 1944, when the United States Navy came to Hanover to help develop an incredible new piece of furniture. As specified by the Navy contract, the chair had to be capable of withstanding fire, weather, war and sailors. Because of its light weight and durability, the chairs soon became synonymous with American institutions from police stations and prisons to schools and hospitals. It did not take long for the chair to become a design icon. The Navy Chairs have graced the cover of fashion magazines, appeared in Hollywood movies like Avatar and Batman, and have been ordered by restaurants and other establishments worldwide from Dean and Deluca to the St. Martins Hotel in London. The Navy Chair is in the permanent collections of museums around the world, including the Design Museum in London and the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh. Emeco sells its Navy Chair to trade architects and designers, governments, contract dealers and international distributors in 48 countries through authentic retail furniture and design stores, such as Design Within Reach.

In 2006, Coca-Cola approached Emeco with a problem: the growing number of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles ending up in the U.S. landfills. Emeco took on the challenge of reinventing the material for the classic Navy Chair with the Emeco and Coca-Cola Joint Venture Agreement, and today each Navy Chair is made with 111 up-cycled Coca-Cola PET bottles. In 2010, the 111 Navy Chair won the GOOD DESIGN Award and the IF International Design Forum Product Design Award, and in 2012 the 111 Navy Chair has taken more than eight million plastic bottles out of landfills.

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Emeco Sues Restoration Hardware for Allegedly Stealing Its Iconic “Navy Chair®” Design