Adidas has filed a claim against Sole Retriever, a sneaker release platform, accusing the platform of involvement in a scheme to obtain and publish confidential information.
The founder of Sole Retriever, Harris Monoson, has also been involved in the proceedings by Adidas. Adidas has alleged extortion, trade secret theft and copyright infringement in the lawsuit, which was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon.
The suit claims that Sole Retriever managed to gain access to highly sensitive information relating to upcoming releases such as CAD renderings, pricing, designs and even details of future collaborations between the sportwear brand and NBA players. As this information was not public knowledge, Adidas allege that this information is classed as trade secrets. Further, Adidas has stated that the obtaining of this information illegally may have been facilitated by third parties, potentially including its own employees. Sole Retriever published this information across its social media channels, which Adidas allege was in an attempt to drive traction to its platforms, directing the public to a paid service. Adidas allege that it has suffered damage as a result, in that Sole Retriever’s actions undercut its product launch plans, which are timed in a way to drive consumer excitement through controlled releases.
The claim is based on US legislation, namely the Defend Trade Secrets Act and the Copyright Act. The copyright claim relates to the CAD designs for unreleased models, which were allegedly leaked by Sole Retriever illegally. Adidas has asked for damages including that for unjust enrichment, profits attributable to misconduct as well as injunctive relief.
If you have any questions on the above, please do not hesitate to contact the team at McDaniels Law on 0191 281 4000 or legal@mcdanielslaw.com.
