Nestl targets Seattle cold brew company in trademark dispute

Nestlé has initiated legal action against Seattle Strong, a Seattle-based cold brew company, alleging trademark infringement with its Seattle's Best brand. The U. S. Patent and Trademark Office has outlined a timeline for a trial expected next year. Nestlé asserts that the similarity between the names could confuse consumers and weaken its brand.

Seattle Strong, which began as a college project in 2017, argues that its exclusive focus on cold brew differentiates it from Seattle's Best, which markets various coffee products. The founder of Seattle Strong criticized Nestlé's claim, emphasizing the company's deep Seattle roots and its belief that the name should be accessible to more than one brand. The local company also expressed concerns about the potential harm to its business if forced to rebrand after years of building its identity. To manage legal expenses, Seattle Strong has launched a GoFundMe campaign. This case highlights ongoing debates about trademark rights and regional branding in the coffee industry.