Portland Pickles and Disney Settle Trademark Infringement Lawsuit
The Portland Pickles baseball team has reached a settlement with the Walt Disney Company, nearly three months after filing a trademark infringement lawsuit. According to recent court filings, the settlement details, including any financial terms or specific conditions, have not yet been publicly disclosed.
Background of the Trademark Dispute
The Portland Pickles initiated legal action against Disney on May 7, 2024, in the U.S. District Court of Oregon. The lawsuit accused Disney of trademark infringement through its animated Disney+ series, "Win or Lose," which premiered on February 19, 2024. The series features a fictional softball team named "The Pickles."
The Portland Pickles alleged in their complaint that Disney "developed, marketed, and sold merchandise bearing logos and themes that are substantially and confusingly similar to plaintiff's Pickles marks." Merchandise linked to the show was reportedly sold online and through major retail chains such as Walmart, Kohl’s, and Target.
In the show, the team wears green and white, and their logo is a pickle with a similar blue hat worn by the Portland Pickles mascot, Dillon T. Pickle.
In the legal filing, the Portland Pickles described their situation as a "classic case of David vs. Goliath," highlighting the challenge faced by a small, community-oriented baseball team confronting an international entertainment giant.
About the Portland Pickles
Established in 2015 in Portland, Oregon, the Portland Pickles are a collegiate summer baseball team owned by Alan Miller. Over the years, the team gained national recognition for their unique branding and viral mascot antics.
The Pickles were represented by the national law firm Lewis Brisbois during the proceedings. Court documents indicate that full settlement details will be finalized within 30 days.
Stay tuned for further updates as more details about the settlement become available.
Source: KGW.com