o9 Solutions Files Lawsuit Against SAP for Trade Secret Misappropriation

Dallas, November 27, 2025

Dallas-based technology firm o9 Solutions has launched a lawsuit against SAP SE, accusing the company of misappropriating trade secrets related to its supply chain management software. The legal action claims that former o9 executives illegally downloaded over 22,000 confidential documents before joining SAP, which allegedly used this information to enhance its software offerings. o9 Solutions is seeking an injunction to prevent further use of these trade secrets and is also pursuing monetary damages.

Dallas – o9 Solutions, a technology firm based in Dallas, Texas, has initiated a legal battle against SAP SE and SAP America Inc., claiming the misappropriation of trade secrets related to its innovative supply chain management software. This lawsuit, lodged with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, alleges that SAP improperly utilized confidential proprietary information to bolster its own enterprise planning software offerings.

The complaint outlines a significant breach of trust, highlighting that three former executives from o9—Chief Revenue Officer Stephan de Barse, Senior Vice President Stijn-Pieter van Houten, and Global Senior Vice President Sean Zonneveld—allegedly downloaded more than 22,000 confidential documents prior to their resignation to join the ranks of SAP. These documents purportedly encompassed critical technical designs, detailed product roadmaps, and internal sales and marketing strategies. The lawsuit claims that SAP exploited this insider knowledge to closely replicate o9’s offerings and business strategies in its software products.

In its legal actions, o9 Solutions is calling for a court injunction to halt SAP’s utilization of what it claims are its trade secrets. Furthermore, the company is seeking unspecified monetary damages as recompense for the alleged infringement on its intellectual property.

SAP has publicly asserted its commitment to maintaining high ethical standards in business operations and has expressed its respect for intellectual property rights. This rebuttal indicates the company’s readiness to defend its practices in the legal arena.

This case underscores pertinent issues regarding corporate espionage and protecting intellectual property within the technology sector. As o9 Solutions aims to safeguard its innovations, it remains a testament to the determination of local businesses to maintain a competitive landscape and to uphold fair practices in industry dealings.

### Implications for Dallas’ Tech Landscape

The outcome of this lawsuit may have wider implications for the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Dallas. As the technology sector continues to evolve, safeguarding intellectual property becomes increasingly critical. This situation invites discussions about the need for robust systems that protect innovations, fostering an environment where local businesses can thrive without fear of their ideas being exploited.

As Dallas emerges as a vibrant hub for technological innovation, the resilience and ingenuity of its local entrepreneurs stand to gain from favorable legal rulings that support fair competition and protect proprietary information. Fostering an environment of trust is essential to encourage continued investment and growth in the Dallas County economy.

### Conclusion

The lawsuit filed by o9 Solutions against SAP serves as a pivotal moment for local tech companies, emphasizing the importance of protecting intellectual property against potential infringement. As the legal proceedings unfold, there is much at stake not just for the parties involved but for the broader Dallas business community. Local stakeholders and entrepreneurs are encouraged to stay informed and engaged with developments that could affect the future of the tech industry in Dallas, Texas, and beyond.

FAQ

| Key Feature | Details |
|————-|———|
| Company Involved | o9 Solutions |
| Allegation | Misappropriation of trade secrets by SAP SE and SAP America Inc. |
| Former Executives | Stephan de Barse, Stijn-Pieter van Houten, Sean Zonneveld |
| Number of Confidential Files Downloaded | Over 22,000 |
| Requested Action | Court order to prevent further use of trade secrets and monetary damages |
| SAP’s Response | Claims to uphold high ethical standards and respect intellectual property rights |

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER

The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.