Pinterest Settles Christine Martinez Lawsuit for $34.7 Million

Pinterest has agreed to a $34.7 million settlement regarding a lawsuit from an early advisor who claims to have helped co-create the platform without receiving compensation.

Christine Martinez, aged 44 and a friend of Pinterest co-founders Ben Silbermann and Paul Sciarra, initiated legal action against the company in 2021. The lawsuit alleged implicit contracts, idea theft, unfair competition, and violations of business practices. Martinez asserted that she contributed numerous ideas for the app, such as the concept of organizing images on a “board,” yet received no payment for her efforts.

Pinterest, renowned for its virtual pinboarding and a significant female user base, announced the settlement with Martinez in its November 2024 Financial Application.

“No one wishes to engage in litigation. I’m incredibly relieved and excited about this outcome,” Martinez stated in a recent interview.

According to a statement included in the settlement, “Mr. Martinez contributed valuable marketing and community growth strategies during Pinterest’s early development.” Both parties expressed satisfaction in amicably resolving this longstanding issue.

Pinterest chose not to comment further.

This settlement comes amidst a pattern of complaints and legal actions brought against Pinterest by female employees and executives.

In 2020, Pinterest settled a gender discrimination lawsuit with former Chief Operating Officer Françoise Brougher for $22.5 million. Additionally, over 200 employees signed a petition that year advocating for policy changes following allegations of racial bias, sexism, and retaliation against the company.

Silbermann, who served as CEO of Pinterest, stepped down from his position in 2022.

Martinez, who possesses expertise in e-commerce and interior design, claimed that Silbermann and Sciarra sought her guidance prior to Pinterest’s official launch in 2010.

She alleged that she originated the idea for photo boards and coined the prevalent “Pin IT” phrase, which helped prominent design and lifestyle bloggers utilize the platform for promotion. According to her lawsuit, elements of the programming code on Pinterest were named in her honor.

While she never entered into a formal contract with Pinterest, it was understood that she would eventually be compensated. Pinterest went public in 2019 and boasts a market capitalization exceeding $18 billion.

Martinez currently serves as a board member and strategic advisor for Gingo, an AI-based online shopping platform designed for women.