Columbia Sportswear sues Columbia University, alleging merchandise too similar and causes confusion
For many years, Columbia Sportswear clothing and Columbia University merchandise peacefully coexisted without any issues.
However, the Portland-based outdoor retailer has now filed a lawsuit against the New York-based university, accusing them of trademark infringement and breaching a contract.
The lawsuit alleges that the university’s apparel closely resembles what Columbia Sportswear sells in its numerous retail locations, including branded stores and online platforms.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon on July 23, claims that Columbia Sportswear and the university had a clear agreement regarding the use of the word “Columbia” on apparel.
According to the agreement, the university could use “Columbia” on their merchandise as long as it included specific school-related elements. However, Columbia Sportswear alleges that the university violated this agreement by selling items without these required logos.
Many of the university’s products are said to be confusingly similar in color and design to Columbia Sportswear’s branding.
alleging Columbia confusion merchandise Similar sportswear sues university
