Uniqlo, a Japanese retail giant, has initiated legal action against Shein, a Chinese online fast-fashion retailer. The lawsuit, filed in the Tokyo District Court, centers around Shein’s alleged imitation of Uniqlo’s popular banana-shaped “Round Mini” shoulder bag. Uniqlo claims that Shein’s version of the bag closely resembles their original design, impacting the brand’s integrity and customer trust.
Details of the Dispute
Uniqlo’s complaint, filed on December 28, 2023, targets Shein’s parent groups, Roadget and Fashion Choice, as well as Shein Japan. The lawsuit demands an immediate halt to the production and sale of the disputed bags and seeks compensation for damages caused by these sales. Uniqlo argues that the imitation significantly undermines the high level of customer confidence in the quality of their brand and products.
Shein’s Response
In response to the lawsuit, a spokesperson for Shein stated that the company is currently investigating the matter. Shein asserts its respect for intellectual property rights and takes claims of infringement seriously.
The Viral Bag
The Uniqlo “Round Mini” shoulder bag gained viral popularity, particularly on TikTok. It’s known for its practical, crescent-shaped design and affordability, being sold at just $19.90 in the US. This product has been a bestseller for Uniqlo, selling out multiple times last year.
Broader Context
Shein has faced several copyright complaints from various brands, including a lawsuit by the Swedish brand H&M and a similar complaint by Chrome Hearts. The increasing number of lawsuits suggests growing concerns in the fashion industry about design imitation and intellectual property rights.
This legal development is part of a broader narrative in the fast fashion industry, where original design and intellectual property are becoming increasingly contentious issues.
