Pocket Tab Wars: Levi's Takes S-Double to Court

Global jeans manufacturer Levi's has initiated legal proceedings against Globe, an Australian clothing company, and its brand S-Double. Levi's asserts that S-Double has engaged in "blatant copying" by sewing pocket tabs onto its garments that closely resemble Levi's own trademarked design. This legal action follows a similar lawsuit filed approximately 15 years ago, which was settled in 2010 after S-Double agreed to cease selling infringing products.

According to court documents filed in California, Levi's alleges trademark infringement, trade dress infringement, and unfair competition by S-Double. The company claims that the repeated infringement has resulted in lost sales and irreparable damage to its brand reputation. Levi's states that its pocket tab design has been famous worldwide since 1936, predating S-Double's alleged use.

Levi's claims it formally notified S-Double and Globe in March 2026 of the infringement, demanding they cease sales and provide sales data. Having received no response, Levi's is now asking the court to permanently stop S-Double from selling similar products and to award monetary damages, including profits from infringing sales and legal costs. Levi's is valued at approximately $8.8 billion, while Globe's market value is significantly lower at $71 million.