A former client of electronics giant Philips is taking the company to court over its refusal to sell him light bulbs and switches which he then supplied to marijuana growers.

Hans Zondervan told television current affairs show Brandpunt Reporter Philips has refused to do business with him since autumn 2013 because the company does not want to be associated with the cannabis industry.

However, Zondervan claims, Philips continues to supply the industry via other channels and he now wants compensation for lost income. Zondervan started working with Philips in 2002.

The indoor cultivation of cannabis requires a large amount of powerful electric light bulbs and other electrical equipment.

Philips has been vetting its grow lamp clients since 2012 to ensure they are only used for legitimate purposes, such as growing indoor flowers and fruit.

Philips has reacted to Zondervan’s claims by launching its own legal case against him for breaking an agreement not to contact Philips any longer and for harassing its staff. The company is demanding €12.8m in compensation, news agency ANP reported.

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