The versatile mini shoulder bag from Uniqlo has become a cult-favorite worldwide. The viral carry-all's popularity has undoubtedly inspired lookalikes everywhere, and now it looks like the Japanese lifewear brand is putting its foot down.
Uniqlo is suing Shein over claims that the fast-fashion giant is selling knockoffs of its crescent bag.
Fast Retailing, the Japanese company that owns Uniqlo, said in a statement that it is suing Shein "regarding the sale of products that copy the form of the Company's Round Mini Shoulder Bag." The statement called the Shein dupes "imitation products".
The petition was filed December 28, 2023 in the Tokyo District Court, with the company citing "violation of the Unfair Competition Prevention Act." It demands "the immediate cessation of sales of the imitation products, and compensation for damages incurred by the Company as a result of these sales." According to the statement, the supposed copycats "significantly undermines the high level of customer confidence in the quality of the UNIQLO brand and its products."
Priced at P790, the relatively affordable bag has gained virality and a loyal following. Soon enough, dupes of the bag appeared on shelves and e-commerce platforms, pushing Uniqlo to release a warning that it would investigate look-alikes and take necessary legal action.
A notice on the United States website of Uniqlo said it was cracking down on these imitations and warned customers about potential damages that may arise from transactions with other companies or websites.
"We are currently investigating these products and, in cases where they are confirmed to be counterfeit or imitations produced with malicious intent, we will consider taking legal action against the companies manufacturing and selling them," the statement said.
"Please note, UNIQLO cannot be held responsible for any damages that arise from transactions with other companies. We therefore ask that our customers take due care when purchasing products. Customers can rest assured that products purchased directly from UNIQLO are legitimate products."
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