OXO International Acquires Vessel, Inc.'s Rechargeable Lighting Products

OXO International, a division of Helen of Troy, has acquired all intellectual property rights to Boston-based Vessel Inc.'s rechargeable lighting products. The transaction, effective immediately, pertains to all patents and trademarks related to rechargeable lighting which is marketed under several names including Candela and Candeloo.

Available since 2002, the current line of rechargeable lighting offered by Vessel includes six items that are offered under the names Candela, Candela Pro, Candeloo, Guardian, Luau and Companion.

As part of the arrangement, Vessel will continue to work closely with OXO to design additional rechargeable lighting products. OXO anticipates launching an updated line of products under the OXO brand in the spring of 2007. Until then, Vessel will continue to supply its existing retail and distributor customer bases.

"We are very excited to be entering this category of products," comments OXO president Alex Lee. "Vessel did a great job with its initial concept by offering the consumer a safer, lower maintenance and, over time, lower cost alternative to candles. We are looking forward to working with Vessel to expand the offerings and develop new applications in this product category for OXO."

"OXO's reputation and commitment to design is ideal for taking our designs for rechargeable lighting to a broader audience. We're thrilled by OXO's vision," said Vessel co-founder Stefane Barbeau. "In addition to working with OXO to develop lighting items, we'll continue to explore exciting new product areas," added Vessel co-founder Duane Smith.