Coach New York owner sues Shein for counterfeiting and unfair competition

Tapestry, the parent company of the famous luxury brand Coach New York, has filed a lawsuit against fast fashion giant Shein, alleging trademark counterfeiting, unfair competition and intellectual property infringement. The case was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, and Tapestry is seeking a jury trial.

According to the lawsuit, Shein is allegedly selling products with identical or similar brands to those of Coach, misleading consumers into believing they are buying genuine items. Among the products cited are bags, shoes, hats and accessories that bear the brand's “C” monogram. The complaint also alleges that the platform facilitated the sale of these counterfeit products by third parties.

Shein, in its defense, stated that it has strict policies to combat counterfeiting and that its sellers must follow clear rules, but the impact of the sale of counterfeits on global e-commerce is increasingly alarming.

This case highlights the importance of specialized legal advice to protect luxury brands and ensure that their intellectual property is respected, especially in a highly complex digital landscape. Trademark infringement not only causes financial losses, but also damages the company's image in the market.

According to a study by Michigan State University, in 2023, almost 70% of consumers reported having been deceived by counterfeits on digital platforms. This demonstrates how the lack of adequate regulation in e-commerce can negatively impact brands and consumers.

For brands that are just starting out, or even for those that are already established, it is essential to have legal advice that can protect intellectual property from the beginning. In cases like Coach, a legal team specialized in Fashion Law makes all the difference when facing e-commerce giants, ensuring that the brand is always protected.