Some argue that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but in the world of registered intellectual property, that is far from the case. Just ask Japanese fashion retailer, Uniqlo and its viral Round Mini Shoulder Bag.
Best known among consumers for manufacturing reliably well-made and practical wardrobe staples all year round, the Yamaguchi-based company has also found a new facet of success by venturing into the accessories market a few years prior. This came courtesy of their dedicated line of bags, many of which have seen great customer reception owing to their reliability, hardiness, and of course, sizeable capacity at a modest price point.
Uniqlo sues SHEIN over Round Mini Shoulder Bag dupe
Nowhere is this more readily evident than with Uniqlo’s now-iconic Round Mini Shoulder Bag, a deceptively simple half-moon-shaped hobo design that can be worn both on the shoulder and of course crossbody. Compact enough to be neatly stowed away, while offering a great deal of storage on the go for no more than HKD 99, the nylon bag has since become a fashion staple globally.
Predictably, the bag’s popularity has led to more than just a few impersonators making an attempt to piggyback off its success, including rival fast-fashion retailer SHEIN. But Uniqlo parent company Fast Retailing hasn’t taken too kindly to the rip-off, and has reportedly mounted a lawsuit in Japan against the Chinese group on the grounds of copying its viral Round Mini Shoulder Bag.
As reported by Japan Times based on a statement issued by Fast Retailing, the lawsuit stipulates that SHEIN is required to immediately cease the sale of the ‘imitation products’, while also compensating for the damages incurred.
“The company filed this complaint because it has determined that the form of the imitation products sold by Shein closely resembles that of its own product,” Fast Retailing said, adding “The sale of the imitation products by Shein significantly undermines the high level of customer confidence in the quality of the Uniqlo brand and its products.”
The lawsuit was filed in December 28th last year at the Tokyo District Court against Roadget Business, Fashion Choice, and SHEIN Japan.
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Feature and hero image credits: Uniqlo
This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Kuala Lumpur
