Fast-Fashion Rivals Shein, Temu in UK Copyright Showdown
- tech360.tv
- May 12
- 2 min read
Online fashion retailer Shein has accused rival Temu of "industrial scale" copyright infringement, while Temu contends Shein is using legal action to suppress competition. A trial began at London's High Court.
This case is part of a worldwide legal dispute between the rapidly expanding companies. It holds potential implications for platform practises, supplier relations, and intellectual property enforcement across global e-commerce.
Shein alleges Temu utilised thousands of its photographs to promote copies of Shein's own-brand apparel on its platform. Shein's lawyer, Benet Brandreth, stated this was an attempt to "steal a march on an existing participant in the market" and gain an unfair advantage, building on Shein's allegation that Temu sought to "piggy-back" on a more established competitor.
Temu denies these allegations. Mr. Brandreth informed the court that Temu abandoned its defence against Shein's copyright claims concerning nearly 2,300 photographs.
PDD Holdings-owned Temu has filed a counter-claim, seeking damages after removing thousands of product listings due to a Shein injunction. Temu also alleges Shein violated competition law by requiring fast-fashion suppliers to sign exclusive agreements. This portion of the case is scheduled for trial next year.
Temu's lawyers assert that Shein's lawsuit is not a genuine effort to prevent copyright infringement. Instead, they argue it aims to secure a competitive advantage for Shein. This two-week London trial represents the latest legal confrontation between the companies, which have also filed lawsuits against each other in the U.S.
Shein and Temu have rapidly expanded into international markets, offering low-cost clothing, accessories, and gadgets. However, the previous year's removal of a U.S. customs exemption on low-value e-commerce parcels, with the European Union to follow in July, could impact their growth.
Shein accuses Temu of "industrial scale" copyright infringement in a trial at London's High Court.
Temu counter-claims, alleging Shein uses litigation to stifle competition and broke competition law.
Shein's lawyer, Benet Brandreth, stated Temu dropped its defence for nearly 2,300 photos.
Source: REUTERS
