Whirlpool praises patent investigation of LG Electronics

Whirlpool Corporation has announced that on February 21, 2008, the International Trade Commission initiated an investigation of LG Electronics Inc., of South Korea and its U.S. and Mexican affiliates.

This step taken by the ITC, known as "institution," follows a patent infringement complaint filed by Whirlpool Corporation against LG on January 23, 2008, and indicates that the ITC has determined that an investigation into the merits of the complaint is justified. Whirlpool is asking the ITC to issue an order to stop LG from selling and importing products into the U.S. that infringe on five of its patents related to its refrigerator business. Whirlpool believes that such an order would affect the majority of the refrigerators sold in the U.S. by LG.

"We are gratified that the ITC has begun an investigation as a result of our complaint against LG," said Phil Pejovich, vice president, refrigeration, Whirlpool North America Region. "Our patents are among our most valuable assets. We will fully cooperate in the investigation and look forward to the ITC's decision in this matter."

About Whirlpool Corporation

Whirlpool Corporation is the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of approximately $19 billion, more than 73,000 employees, and 72 manufacturing and technology research centers around the world. The company markets Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Brastemp, Bauknecht and other major brand names to consumers in nearly every country around the world. Additional information about the company can be found at http://www.whirlpoolcorp.com/.