An online influencer has sparked a heated discussion by revealing a Christmas tree adorned not with traditional decorations like baubles and tinsel, but with numerous Labubu dolls – and the tree was set up as early as September.
Opinions on this unique display varied, with some deeming it tacky or premature, while others praised the influencer’s creativity. The Christmas exhibit, labeled as “over the top” by some, quickly gained widespread attention, becoming a viral sensation. Matt Hey, an influencer self-branded as Australia’s ‘biggest Glamazon,’ shared videos showcasing the elaborate installation on his Instagram profile.
Hey humorously remarked, “I am the proud owner of the one and only Labubu Christmas tree,” adding, “When brainstorming this year’s theme, I aimed to encapsulate the essence of the current year. Therefore, what better theme than Labubus, obviously.”
Anticipating a mixed response, Hey quipped, “I know the tree will infuriate some people – and I’m here for it.”
Featuring over 40 Labubu dolls, the tree indeed triggered a range of reactions, but it symbolizes more than just a flamboyant holiday gesture.
Labubus have gained immense popularity worldwide, even gracing the expensive Hermes handbags of celebrities. The dolls have been in high demand, leading to a surge in counterfeit products flooding markets. In the UK, counterfeit Labubu dolls accounted for 90 percent of intercepted counterfeit toys at the border this year.
The influx of fake dolls raised concerns due to safety issues such as choking hazards and the presence of harmful substances. Authorities in the UK have issued warnings about counterfeit Labubu dolls lacking essential safety markings, featuring detachable parts, and being poorly manufactured.
Authentic Labubu dolls are distinguished by features like holographic stickers, QR codes, and UV stamps, which counterfeit versions often lack. Investigations by the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) uncovered counterfeit toys containing banned chemicals linked to cancer, posing severe risks, especially for young children.
Despite consumer awareness of counterfeit products, many prioritize cost over safety when buying toys. A study revealed that safety considerations rank low on the list of influencing factors for toy purchases, with only 27 percent of consumers citing safety as a key factor.
As part of its ‘Fake Toys, Real Harm’ campaign, the IPO, along with toy retailers and other stakeholders, aims to raise awareness about the dangers associated with counterfeit toys. Helen Barnham, Deputy Director of Enforcement, emphasized the hidden risks of counterfeit toys, urging parents to prioritize child safety and avoid purchasing potentially harmful fake products.