Nokian Tyres plc: Appeal court confirms sentences for the misappropriation of business secrets

Nokian Tyres plc Press Release June 19, 2019, at 10:45 a.m.

Turku Appeal Court has sentenced nine former employees of Nokian Tyres, who transferred confidential information to the Black Donuts Engineering group of companies, for the infringement and misuse of Nokian Tyres’ business secrets. Two people had previously received non-appealable sentences in the case. The Appeal Court convicted all of the defendants. Altogether eight defendants have been sentenced to imprisonment. Black Donuts Engineering Oy was sentenced to fines imposed on corporation and to lose the benefits from criminal activities to the state.  

The convicted persons resigned from Nokian Tyres in 2010–2011, with the exception of one defendant who was employed by a subcontractor. They took tens of thousands of records containing Nokian Tyres’ business secrets related to factory technology and product development, among other things, and used them for competing business operations.

“This case has been processed since 2011, and we are happy that a decision has been reached and all defendants have been convicted,” says Hille Korhonen, President and CEO for Nokian Tyres.

Nokian Tyres plc 

Päivi Antola
SVP, Corporate Communications & Investor Relations

Requests for more information: media@nokiantyres.com

Nokian Tyres is the world’s northernmost tire manufacturer and one of the most sustainable companies in the industry. We offer peace of mind in all conditions by developing high-quality, safe and eco-friendly tires for passenger cars, trucks and heavy machinery. We are especially well known for our innovative winter tires. Our group also includes the Vianor chain, specializing in vehicle maintenance and tire services. In 2018, the company’s turnover was approximately EUR 1.6 billion and it employed some 4,800 people. Nokian Tyres is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki. Further information: www.nokiantyres.com