Chinese toy maker Pop Mart International has sued several 7-Eleven store operators in the U.S. for allegedly selling counterfeit versions of its iconic Labubu plush toy and violating its trademarks.
The company is requesting court orders to prevent 7-Eleven and seven convenience store owners or franchisees from continuing these violations, as outlined in the July 18 filing in a California district court, according to Global Times.
The lawsuit was filed following a viral social media video by a U.S. consumer, which revealed rows of counterfeit Labubu dolls labeled as “Lafufu” displayed at a 7-Eleven store.
The fake dolls were priced at US$25 each, closely matching the official retail price of genuine Labubu products.
Visitors visit the “the monsters Convenience Store” themed exhibition created by POP MART with IP LABUBU as the selling point, Shanghai, China, July 23, 2025. Photo by AFP
“Despite its rights and ability to control and exercise approval over franchisees, 7-Eleven has failed to utilize this control to prevent and stop the counterfeiting and infringement of Pop Mart’s trademarks, trade dress and copyrights,” according to the complaint, as reported by South China Morning Post.
The Labubu toys – which depict furry monsters and sharp teeth in various designs and colors – have become a global sensation with fans lining up for hours for the latest and rarest models.
The toys are sold in blind boxes to create a mysterious shopping experience for buyers and spiked up their desire to collect uncommon models which can be sold for profit.
The Labubu phenomenon has propelled Pop Mart to a valuation exceeding US$40 billion, with its Hong Kong-listed shares soaring 588% over the past year, according to Bloomberg.
Pop Mart expects its first-half profit to surge 350% year-on-year thanks to growing demand.
The Hong Kong-listed company also anticipates a revenue growth of at least 200% for the same period, according to a company release.