Korean Leather Teacher SUED By Hermès (loses)
I found this article completely by accident today while looking for a bag design that I believe Hermès copied from Louis Vuitton. Ironic given the nature of this post (More information about that coming in the April podcast available HERE)
Link to the article (or click the image):
The leathercraft teaching business in question is Franc Atelier from Korea. Unfortunately I can't seem to find a website or active social media account, so I assume their business is over.
There aren't a lot of details regarding how this came about, whether a cease and desist warning was given, or if Hermès took the company straight to court in Korea.
On the one hand I understand Hermès and their reasons for seeking compensation from a business teaching students how to fake their bags. However I think 'forcing a large payment for damages' may be a little heavy handed for a (I presume) small business. I hope it was at least a limited company!
I think culturally, 'homage' bags are less frowned upon in East Asia vs most western countries based on what I have seen online, YouTube and social media etc. It doesn't seem to be as big of a deal. Hermès obviously see things differently.
But don't misunderstand me, I don't think it's wrong for someone to make a big brand's bag design if they are creating it for themselves and adding their own logo, or not logo at all.
However, profiting from the creation of obvious fakes without permission, or at least changing the design in some way is where I personally draw the line.
What are your personal thoughts on this? Comment below.
For sure!