Energizer files lawsuit against Spectrum Brands

Energizer Holdings Inc. said Monday it filed a lawsuit against Spectrum Brands Inc., claiming the company's lithium batteries infringe on two of its patents.

Energizer said its lawsuit filed in federal court in Madison, Wis., accuses Spectrum of infringing on two of its patents by importing and selling primary lithium batteries under the Rayovac Lithium brand at a "major U.S. retailer."

An Energizer spokeswoman declined to say at which retailer the brands were made available because the retailer is a customer of Energizer's.

Energizer said it is seeking undisclosed damages from Spectrum and has asked for both a preliminary and permanent injunction against product sales.

Spectrum denied that its batteries infringe on Energizer's patents and said it will "vigorously defend itself" against the lawsuit.

"Spectrum has recently introduced its lithium product at retail in an effort to provide consumers with a lower cost alternative," the company said in a statement. "Sales of lithium batteries are not expected to have a material impact on the Spectrum's 2008 or 2009 financial results."

Shares of Energizer lost 63 cents to $71.22. Spectrum shares fell 15 cents to $2.61.