7-Eleven sues Nike over Air Max 95 shoes as they also have orange, green & red colours

7-Eleven has sued Nike over an upcoming pair of Air Max 95 sneakers.

The convenience store chain accused Nike of copying its signature orange, green, and red stripe design.

According to Reuters, the lawsuit was filed in federal court in Dallas, Texas, on Jul. 2.

Shoes to launch on 7-Eleven Day

The shoes are reportedly slated to be released on Jul. 11.

This date is widely associated with 7-Eleven Day, when participating stores hold their annual Free Slurpee Day promotion.

Slurpees are frozen slushy drinks sold by 7-Eleven.

In its lawsuit, 7-Eleven claimed the upcoming Nike Air Max 95 features a "confusingly similar imitation" of its tri-colour stripe branding.

The company said consumers may mistakenly believe the shoes were sponsored or endorsed by 7-Eleven.

No partnership

7-Eleven said there is no partnership between the two companies.

The retailer also alleged that Nike intentionally designed the shoe to evoke 7-Eleven and benefit from its brand recognition.

The lawsuit pointed to media reports describing the sneaker as being inspired by 7-Eleven.

7-Eleven added that it has used its orange, green and red colour combination for decades in store signage, advertising, merchandise, footwear and other products.

It also said it owns multiple trademark registrations for the design.

Tried to resolve dispute

According to the lawsuit, 7-Eleven said it had repeatedly tried to resolve the matter before taking legal action.

However, it claimed Nike indicated that it would continue advertising the shoe and proceed with its planned Jul. 11 launch.

In a statement, 7-Eleven said it had to "act quickly and decisively" due to the "unauthorised use" of its brand and the upcoming launch on its "birthday", 7-Eleven Day.

The retailer is seeking a court order to block Nike from selling the shoes.

It is also seeking a recall of products that have already been distributed, as well as monetary damages and Nike’s profits from sales of the footwear.

Nike did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment.