The Pennsylvania State University v. Vintage Brand, LLC et al

Case Background

On June 21, 2021, Plaintiff The Pennsylvania State University filed a Trademark Infringement lawsuit in the Pennsylvania Middle District Court, Williamsport division (Case number: 4:21-cv-01091). Honorable Matthew W. Brann presided over this case.

Cause

The case revolves around Penn State filing a lawsuit against Vintage Brand, LLC, alleging trademark infringement, counterfeiting, unfair competition, false designation of origin, and trademark dilution. Through its website, VintageBrand.com, the defendant sold various products, including apparel, drinkware, and accessories, featuring Penn State’s trademarks without authorization. The university’s iconic symbols, such as the PENN STATE name, Nittany Lion Logos, Pozniak Lion Logo, and the Penn State Seal, were unlawfully replicated and used to promote Vintage Brand’s merchandise. Penn State accused Vintage Brand of being a "serial infringer," pointing out that other universities, including Purdue University and the University of Arizona, had also filed lawsuits against the defendant for similar violations.

Injuries

Penn State sustained significant harm due to the counterfeit university merchandise sold by Vintage Brand. The university’s reputat