AFL announced today it successfully settled its lawsuit against SurplusEQ.com, Inc., including a permanent injunction against SurplusEQ.com, Inc. issued by the United States District Court. In the suit, AFL contended that SurplusEQ.com, Inc. sold Fujikura fusion splicers that were modified from their original design; thus, providing splicers that were materially different, causing confusion to customers. The court concluded: "A permanent injunction serves the public interest in that it will prevent the confusion that results from the marketing and sale of unauthorized Fujikura fusion splicers that are materially different from those authorized for sale in the U.S., and will prevent the distribution of Fujikura fusion splicers bearing modified software that may cause failures or other defects in the operation of the splicers. Such protection is the central goal of the Lanham (Trademark) Act."

"AFL is pleased with the outcome of this lawsuit and the positive message for our customers who use Fujikura fusion splicers and rely on them to conduct business on a daily basis," commented Steve Althoff, executive vice president of AFL's equipment division. "Fujikura fusion splicers are known for their exceptional performance and high quality, and when customers purchase this brand, they expect to get a product that is the same product that was shipped from Fujikura's manufacturing plant. Unfortunately, this was not happening. As the exclusive provider of Fujikura fusion splicers in North America, AFL will continue to protect both Fujikura's and our customer's interests to the fullest extent."

A court-approved permanent injunction has been served on SurplusEQ.com, Inc. and its owner, Daniel Parsons. The judgment prohibits SurplusEQ.com, Inc. and Daniel Parsons from selling any new Fujikura fusion splicers, and it prohibits SurplusEQ.com, Inc. and Daniel Parsons from selling any new Fujikura fusion splicers that are not properly licensed and verified for the North American territory. Additionally, SurplusEQ.com, Inc. agreed to pay AFL a significant financial sum to compensate AFL.

AFL is wholly-owned by Fujikura Ltd., the world leader in fusion splicing technology. AFL has the exclusive right to distribute Fujikura fusion splicers in all countries comprising the North America continent.

For additional information on AFL, its products and services, visit www.AFLglobal.com.

About AFL
AFL provides industry-leading products and services to the electric utility, broadband, communications, enterprise and OEM markets as well as the emerging markets of oil and gas, mining, nuclear, avionics, renewables and transportation. The company's diverse product portfolio includes fiber optic cable, transmission and substation accessories, outside plant equipment, connectors, fusion splicers, test equipment and training. AFL's service portfolio includes market-leading positions with the foremost communications companies supporting inside plant central office, EF&I, outside plant, enterprise and wireless areas.

Founded in 1984, AFL is proud to offer engineering expertise, exceptional products and reliable service that help our customers improve their critical and electrical infrastructure. AFL has operations in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, Europe, Asia and the South Pacific. The company is headquartered in Spartanburg, SC and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan. For more information, visit www.AFLglobal.com.

About Fujikura
Fujikura is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan and manufactures products for the telecommunications, electronics, automotive and energy sectors. Fujikura's fusion splicers are well-known for performance, productivity and reliability. AFL offers the most extensive line of Fujikura fusion splicers and related equipment for field splicing and factory/laboratory use. All fusion splicers sold by AFL are backed with a factory warranty and a 24/7 technical support team. For more information, visit www.fujikura.co.jp.

AFL
Corie Culp, Public Relations Manager
864-433-5409
Corie.Culp@AFLglobal.com