7-Eleven Sues Nike Over Air Max 95 Colorway

7-Eleven filed a lawsuit against Nike in federal court in Dallas on Wednesday, accusing the sportswear company of infringing on its trademarked branding with an upcoming Air Max 95 sneaker. The convenience store chain alleges that the shoe's distinctive orange, green, and red stripe design is a confusingly similar imitation of 7-Eleven's signature tri-color branding, which has been in use for decades and is protected by multiple trademark registrations.

According to the complaint filed in the US District Court for the Northern District of Texas, 7-Eleven argues that Nike's Air Max 95 colorway replicates the stripe design so closely that consumers are likely to mistakenly believe the shoe is sponsored or endorsed by 7-Eleven, despite no existing partnership between the two companies. The lawsuit cites media reports that have already described the shoe as inspired by the convenience chain, further supporting 7-Eleven's claim of consumer confusion.

The dispute is further amplified by the scheduled July 11 launch date for the Air Max 95. This date is significant for 7-Eleven as it coincides with its annual "7-Eleven Day" promotion, during which participating stores offer free Slurpees. 7-Eleven stated that the timing of Nike's release forced its hand, highlighting the potential for brand confusion during a key promotional period for the retailer. The company is seeking to prevent the sale of the sneakers.