Columbia Sportswear filed a lawsuit in the US District Court in Portland, Oregon, against Columbia University, accusing the school of trademark infringement, unfair competition and breach of contract. As reported by Willamette Week and legal analysis site Gerben Law Firm, the suit centers on a 2023 agreement that allowed the university to use the “Columbia” name on apparel only when accompanied by clear identifiers such as “University,” a school seal, mascot or the year 1754.
According to the complaint, Columbia University began selling items in 2024 that featured only the “Columbia” name – without the agreed-upon identifiers – and sometimes alongside competitor brands like Nike and Champion. Columbia Sportswear argues this has led to consumer confusion and damages to its reputation and brand value.
