Austin-Based Yeti Coolers Settles Lawsuit With Competitor

Austin-based Yeti Coolers said Thursday that it has settled a lawsuit against RTIC Coolers, a Texas-based competitor that Yeti has accused of copying its designs and intellectual property.

The settlement calls for RTIC Coolers to make a financial payment to Yeti, to cease sales of all products subject to the lawsuit – which includes hard-sided coolers, soft-sided coolers and drinkware — and to redesign all products in question, according to a news release from Yeti. The company did not release the amount of the financial payment, and said it would have no additional comment on the settlement.

“We are extremely pleased with the results we have achieved. We will continue to defend our innovation and intellectual property. This is a true win,” CEO Matt Reintjes said in a written statement.

RTIC Coolers is based in the Houston suburb of Cypress. It was founded by twin brothers John and Jim Jacobsen, has generated about $200 million in revenue since shipping its first cooler in September 2015 and now employs about 100 people.

The company has built a loyal fan base among sporting enthusiasts such as hunters and anglers who have embraced the brand for its range of products, including its heavily insulated, nearly indestructible coolers. And those fans are willing to pay for it: Yeti’s smaller coolers can start at $250 and can reach more than $1,000 depending on size and style.

In recent years, Yeti has expanded into premium drinkware, soft coolers and branded apparel. The company’s revenue has surged dramatically since its founding, jumping to $468.9 million in 2015, according to securities filings.

In 2012, Yeti sold a majority ownership stake to New York private equity firm Cortec Group for an undisclosed amount. The deal allowed the Seiders brothers to cash out some of their equity in the company. The Seiders remain shareholders in the company, according to securities filings.

Source: www.statesman.com www.statesman.com

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