An online influencer has stirred up discussion by revealing a Christmas tree adorned not with traditional decorations like baubles and tinsel, but with numerous Labubu dolls – and the tree was put up as early as September.
While some people criticized the display as gaudy and premature, others praised the influencer’s innovative approach. The Christmas tree exhibit, labeled as “excessive” by some, has quickly gained widespread attention. Matt Hey, an influencer who refers to himself as Australia’s ‘biggest Glamazon’, showcased the elaborate setup on his Instagram account.
In a playful manner, Hey quipped, “I am the proud owner of the one-of-a-kind Labubu Christmas tree.” He explained, “When brainstorming this year’s theme, I aimed to capture the essence of the current year. Therefore, the only fitting theme was unquestionably Labubus.”
Hey acknowledged that he expected some backlash, stating, “I know that the tree will infuriate some people – and I find that amusing.”
Featuring over 40 Labubu dolls, the tree undoubtedly elicited a range of reactions. However, this display goes beyond being just a flamboyant Christmas spectacle.
Labubus have gained immense popularity worldwide, with even celebrities prominently displaying them on their luxurious Hermes handbags. These items have become highly sought after, with some being resold for hundreds of pounds in the secondary market.
The market has been flooded with counterfeit versions of Labubu dolls. In the UK alone this year, counterfeit dolls made up 90 percent of all fake toys seized at the border.
Many of these fake products have failed safety assessments, raising concerns about choking hazards and unsafe materials. UK trading standards authorities have issued alerts regarding counterfeit Labubu dolls lacking proper safety labels, having detachable components, and being poorly manufactured.
Authentic Labubu dolls typically come with distinguishing features such as holographic stickers, QR codes, and UV stamps – characteristics that counterfeit products often lack.
Research conducted by the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) revealed that some counterfeit toys contain banned chemicals associated with cancer, as well as posing choking hazards and other serious risks. These hazardous items have even been marketed to toddlers and infants.
Despite 92 percent of UK toy buyers being aware of counterfeit products, cost-saving currently outweighs safety considerations for many consumers. Reports indicate that seven out of ten toy buyers prioritize cost, while 43 percent make purchases based on children’s requests. Other significant factors influencing purchasing decisions include quality (48 percent) and brand recognition (46 percent).
However, safety considerations rank relatively low among consumers, with only 27 percent citing it as a pivotal factor in their decision-making process. Experts emphasize the substantial risks associated with seemingly innocuous purchases, urging consumers to prioritize safety.
As part of its ‘Fake Toys, Real Harm’ campaign, the IPO has collaborated with toy retailers, local authorities, and social media influencers. Helen Barnham, Deputy Director of Enforcement, emphasized the dangers associated with counterfeit toys, warning that hidden hazards like choking risks and toxic substances could endanger children.
The ‘Fake Toys, Real Harm’ campaign aims to educate parents and buyers about the concealed dangers linked to counterfeit products. Barnham stressed that child safety should be the top priority, urging parents not to subject their children to potential harm by unknowingly purchasing counterfeit items.