American Eagle Wins Preliminary Injunction Against Payless

PITTSBURGH - American Eagle Outfitters Inc. announced in a press release that it has won a preliminary injunction against Payless ShoeSource Inc. in a trademark infringement and unfair competition lawsuit arising out of Payless' use of the AMERICAN EAGLE mark for footwear and bags.

The ruling requires Payless to adopt a clear disclaimer stating that AMERICAN EAGLE by Payless is not affiliated with AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS.

"We're pleased with the court's decision to issue a preliminary injunction against Payless," American Eagle Vice President and General   Neil Bulman said.

"Our ultimate goal is to stop Payless from misleading and confusing consumers and to protect the integrity of our brand," he added.

Since 1977, American Eagle Outfitters has developed a well-known and successful brand by selling high-quality apparel, footwear and accessories under a family of marks including AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS, AMERICAN EAGLE, AEO and AE, at more than 900 American Eagle Outfitters retail stores and through its website.

The April 2007 suit was filed in United States District Court Eastern District of New York.