The first respondent traded in films in the theatrical (cinema) sector of the film market in South Africa and also in the rental and retail sales sector of that market. The second, third, fourth and fifth respondents (referred to in the judgment as "the owners") were the owners of the copyright in the films with which their application in the court below dealt. The first appellant carried on business as a franchisor of businesses, conducted under the name "MrVideo", for the hiring of recorded films to members of the public for home viewing, and the remaining appellants were franchisees