Flickr repository of fake brands turns attention to China

Photos taken by consumers have been placed in a Flickr group and made accessible to the web-using public.  Alongside copycat Starbucks cafes and imitation iPods, images posted so far feature storefronts for “Nibe” (Nike) and “YifuShintLoudrant” (YvesSaintLaurent), “Adinais” (Adidas) trainers and “Penesamig” (Panasonic) batteries.

The collection of images, produced by NetNames in conjunction with sister company and brand monitoring specialist Envisional, has been taken by consumers and highlights incidents of the world’s most recognised logos receiving unusual makeovers. The new photographic evidence shows that Western brands are being misrepresented by high-profile fakes across the country.

Jonathan Robinson, chief operating officer of NetNames comments: “When we asked consumers to send in photos of the misuse of corporate brands in China, we were amazed to see entire stores using familiar branding to mimic Western superbrands.

“We hope to be able to use this campaign to highlight just how widespread brand misuse is, not just in the East but across the world. The level of response to date demonstrates that it’s more important than ever for brands to protect the integrity of their name both online and on the high street.”

The Flickr group can be found at www.flickr.com/groups/brandpolice