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Columbia Sportswear Sues University Over Solo ‘Columbia’ Merchandise

The Portland retailer is seeking injunctive relief, recalls, treble damages following what it says is a breach of its 2023 branding pact prohibiting solo use of ‘Columbia’.

Overview

  • The suit, filed July 23 in U.S. District Court in Oregon, accuses Columbia University of trademark infringement, unfair competition and breach of contract after it sold apparel labeled only “Columbia.”
  • The 2023 agreement required the university to pair its name with a mascot, insignia, academic department or founding year to distinguish its merchandise.
  • Columbia Sportswear’s complaint highlights university garments in a bright blue similar to its trademark hue and featuring Nike and Champion logos that it says confuse consumers.
  • The company wants to bar all unapproved “Columbia” products, recall existing stock, donate remaining items to charity and recover three times actual damages.
  • Columbia University has declined to comment as the case moves forward alongside its $220 million settlement to restore federal research funding.