Property consultancy Drivers Jonas has been ordered to pay the organisers of MIPIM 100,000 euros after being found guilty of “parasitical” behaviour.
The planning specialists - which has recently merged with business advisory giant Deloitte - has long been one of the most visible companies at the annual property show in Cannes holding court at the Pavillon Croisette restaurant outside the main exhibition area.
The show’s organisers Reed Midem claimed that the company received all the benefits from the show without actually investing any money in it by sending delegates to the conference or taking a stand for 7,000 euros.
After a protracted legal battle - which has seen the company decide against going to the event this year which starts in two weeks - the Tribunal de Commerce de Paris ruled against Drivers Jonas and ordered it to pay the damages at Reed Midem’s costs.
A spokesman for Reed Midem said: “While this judgment vindicates Reed Midem’s decision to go to court, it primarily protects our Mipim clients who register and operate in good faith within the show venue.”
