Business news :Brooks Settles Trademark Lawsuit with Fred Meyer

Brooks Sports, Inc. and Fred Meyer Stores, Inc. have settled their dispute around Fred Meyer’s use of an objectionable graphic design on private label athletic wear. While Fred Meyer did not admit liability, it recognized the design closely resembles the chevron logo federally registered by Brooks. This acknowledgement and the companies’ subsequent agreement require Fred Meyer to stop using its design on all private label athletic apparel.

The settlement lays out a phased approach for Fred Meyer to stop manufacturing, importing, and selling apparel that includes the design alone or in conjunction with other designs or wording during the coming few months.

“Brooks has built a global brand known for the highest quality running footwear and apparel,” said David Bohan, Brooks' chief operating officer. “Our logo communicates the Brooks brand promise to the consumer at first glance, and therefore we will take all necessary steps to defend it.”

A subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., Brooks was founded in 1914 and is headquartered in Bothell, WA., near Seattle.

( SportsOneSource Media )