BUSINESS-ECONOMY
Skechers USA, a giant in shoes, filed a suit Tuesday accusing clothier and outdoor gear purveyor LL Bean of illegally copying its shoe designs, according to Reuters. Skechers USA, a giant in shoes, filed a suit Tuesday accusing clothier and outdoor gear purveyor LL Bean of illegally copying its shoe designs, according to Reuters. The lawsuit, filed Monday in Manhattan federal court, said that Freeport casual shoes created by LL Bean infringed on two patented designs for "heel cups" developed by Skechers. Skechers, the third-largest footwear company in the world, described its heel cup designs as "distinctive and stylish" with "gracious, sweeping, gently rolling lines and slopes," thereby suggesting a simile for the shape of the heel. The company alleges that LL Bean independently designed similar shoes after Skechers had invested considerable upfront resources in developing and marketing the original designs, which had been proven to have wide market appeal. "Only after Skechers had taken on the great risk and monumental expense of developing and marketing its shoes with the heel cup designs, and proved that they had widespread consumer appeal, did LL Bean enter the market with its infringing shoe," Skechers said in its complaint. The lawsuit sets unspecified damages, triple damages for a willful infringement case, and asks for an injunction on sales of the alleged infringing shoes. LL Bean and Skechers did not respond to requests seeking comment immediately. The lawsuit comes at a time when recessionary fears have most Americans remaining tightfisted with discretionary spending. LL Bean's Freeport shoes, named for the company's Maine hometown, sell for $99 on its website. Founded in 1912, LL Bean is known for its outdoor gear and apparel on its website. Skechers — founded 80 years later, in 1992 — is headquartered in Manhattan Beach, California. A journalist, writing for the WION Business desk. Bringing you insightful business news with a touch of creativity and simplicity. Find me on Instagram as Zihvee, tr None
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