Opinion ID: 796577
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: The Product Modification Allegation

Text: 26 HDC also alleges that Minntech altered the design of two products specifically for the purpose of harming competition. First, HDC argues that Minntech changed the Renatron's uptake mechanism solely to prevent the use of competitors' reprocessing agents. Second, HDC argues that Minntech modified its barcode scanning device solely to prevent the use of competitors' reprocessing agents. 27 In response, Minntech explains that the changes to the uptake valve were made in order to aid users in properly diluting the reprocessing agent. Both parties agree proper dilution is essential to ensure patient safety. Patient safety is a valid business justification. HDC does not offer any evidence to indicate that Minntech's explanation is false. Also, HDC does not offer any evidence to suggest Minntech's motive was to engage in anti-competitive conduct. 28 The alleged changes in the barcode reader fail for similar reasons. HDC argues that changes in the Minntech barcode made it difficult for consumers to use HDC's reprocessing agent in Renatrons. Again, Minntech offered an appropriate business-related justification for the changes, i.e., to aid consumers in keeping better records and to comply with necessary government regulations. 29 HDC offers no evidence that Minntech engaged in anti-competitive conduct. Minntech maintains, and we agree, that a rational business justification existed for each of the allegations of improper conduct. HDC fails to offer any evidence to discredit these justifications or to suggest that Minntech held an impermissible motive. Accordingly, we hold that the district court did not err in granting summary judgment in HDC's attempted monopolization claims. 2