Sears Accuses Canada Goose Company of Bullying

Toronto, Canada – Canada Goose Expedition Clothing Outfitters is the maker of cold weather wear that admittedly looks as Chic as it is arctic appropriate, but those wanting the attractive coats will pay for the privilege. Presumably, that opens the doors for rival clothing makers to create alternative versions to sell in an attempt to peel off sales for lower-priced alternatives.

Canada Goose will have nothing of it and regularly files lawsuits to intimidate competitors from selling lower-priced comparable items. At least, that is what Sears is alleging in a counter-suit it has filed against the Canadian clothing maker. Canada Goose claims that Sears is selling a knock-off which would obviously be an infringement on their brand. Sears alleges that the Canadian company plays hardball not only with frivolous litigation, but also their ties in the media to “bully” competitors into pulling clothing lines that would otherwise legitimately compete with them.

“Canada Goose is simply attempting to bully Sears and others through demands, unfounded litigation, statements in the press and the like, into ceasing activities that Canada Goose knows do not cause confusion or any harm to it,” Sears alleges.

“The real purpose of Canada Goose’s campaign of intimidation is to attempt to prevent or lessen sales in the marketplace of less expensive winter jackets … to preserve its temporary ability to sell its garments at a huge markup to the public.”

It should be noted that thus far, both companies are trading barbs as the courts have not ruled one way or the other in their respective allegations. It is true that Canada Goose has a history of filing litigation against competitors. It is also true that Sears has deep pockets to fund a legal battle if they choose to go that route.

On The Web:
Sears accuses Canada Goose of bullying, ‘campaign of intimidation’
http://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/sears-accuses-canada-goose-bullying-39-campaign-intimidation-200628923.html