In June 2016 NICHIA commenced a lawsuit claiming that certain white LED-containing products sold by B&Q plc, the largest DIY company in the UK, and sourced from third-party Asian manufacturers infringed Nichia's European “YAG” patents.

As part of the lawsuit, Nichia sought damages and an injunction against further infringement. Nichia claimed that the products infringed its European Patents (UK) 0 936 682, 2 197 053 and 2 276 080 which are Nichia’s basic and improved invention patents concerning “YAG” technology. The parties have been able to amicably resolve their differences. As part of the settlement, though without any admissions, B&Q has made a payment to Nichia and has agreed to enter into future business communications with Nichia.

Nichia gives serious consideration to the protection of its intellectual property and will vigorously enforce its intellectual property rights in any country. B&Q maintains its commitment to respecting the intellectual property rights of others.