Forget about the iPad settlement.
The real news in China is KHZ’s infringement of KFC:
KHZ (top) and the original: Tongli’s new spin on fast chicken
KFC is all over China, so it’s not like another chicken joint’s calling itself “KHZ” was a coincidence. Nor was its choice of a red-and-white color scheme or use of a Colonel Sanders stand-in.
But even then, it probably wasn’t the most brazen example of infringement I saw. Anyone up for Thomas the Train Pizza?
Thomas the Train Pizza, Beijing-style
And who needs Tommy Hilfiger when you’ve got Tommy Welai? I’m sure the clothes are the same either way.
Beijing’s Tommy: Tommy Welai
Last but not least, a fake “Cheers” bar. Where everybody knows your name — assuming it’s Wong, Lee, or Cheung. Ni hao!
Cheers - Suzhou: Miles from Boston, but everyone still knows your name
It was an awesome trip. By highlighting some of the crazier instances of trademark infringement I found, I’m in no way trying to take anything away from this wonderful country. China rocks. The people are friendly, the food is good, and the subway (in Beijing, at least) costs 30 cents to ride. Who can beat that?! I plan to return as soon as possible.
Photos by STL.