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Popular Labubus - Can Pop Mart keep up?
The craze for fake Labubus, known as Lafufus, is growing. Can Pop Mart keep up or will demand for the real figures decline? A look at the current trend.
Popular Labubus - Can Pop Mart keep up?
In the world of collectibles, the hype surrounding the Labubu dolls from Pop Mart, a Beijing-based toy maker, has reached new heights. Like many Labubu fans, 28-year-old Joselyn Chamorro is tired of the fascination behind these $30 mischievous dolls. The long lines and exorbitant prices of up to $100 from resellers contributed to their disinterest. So she decided to purchase a counterfeit copy that was being sold at a gas station in Lakeland, Florida for $20.
The rise of the Labubus
Demand for the real Labubus was enormous, but like anything that gains popularity quickly, the market could fall just as quickly. According to Pop Mart's semi-annual report released in August, the company's sales are expected to exceed 30 billion yuan ($4.2 billion) in 2025. In America in particular, sales rose by more than 1,000% compared to the previous year thanks to Labubus. Globally, Labubus recorded an increase of 668% in the first half of the year.
The challenge of imitation
But the real labubus could quickly fade into the background, as prices between $20 and $40 tempt many buyers to seek alternatives. Pop Mart has trademarked the “Labubu” brand in the United States since 2019 and internationally since at least 2016. In China, rigorous action is now being taken against counterfeit Lafufus, whose spread seems unstoppable. Ironically, China is known as a hub for counterfeits, producing 45% of all counterfeit goods seized worldwide in 2021.
Why are Labubus so popular?
Many young people have now left behind the shame of owning counterfeit products. Lafufus, which often have unique features, are currently attracting more attention. "The little imperfections and quirks are what make them appealing," explained Cassandra Harrison, 32, of New Jersey. She also found Lafufus while strolling through various shops, but in the end she decided to buy a real Labubu.
Pop Mart remains innovative
Pop Mart's success is based not only on the products themselves, but also on clever marketing. The company's strategy of offering blind boxes fits perfectly with the way consumers consume information today - simply and without obligation. Pop Mart also plans to open numerous new stores worldwide in the coming years. Sales outside of China are expected to account for 70% of Pop Mart's total sales by 2034, according to analysts.
The future of the Labubus
It remains to be seen whether the Labubus will remain so popular. Joselyn Chamorro expressed concerns that these dolls may just be a passing trend. "I don't know if they'll be as big in a year. It feels more like a current fad and I don't think I'll buy another one. It's just too difficult to get one," she added.