The Rise of Labubu and the Lafufu Twist
Labubu toys have become a global sensation, and Pop Mart’s strategy has fueled massive demand. But as fans chase collectibles, Lafufu knock-offs are sneaking into the market. From gas stations in Florida to big-box stores in New Jersey, fake Labubus are becoming just as visible as the originals.
Interestingly, many fans no longer feel ashamed of buying a fake. Some even celebrate the quirks of their Lafufus, treating them as unique collectibles in their own right. This shift raises a pressing question: can Pop Mart sustain its dominance when fakes are gaining momentum?
Pop Mart’s Revenue Boom
Despite counterfeits, Pop Mart remains a powerhouse. The Beijing-based toy giant reported over 1,000% growth in the Americas, with Labubu sales alone skyrocketing by 668% in just six months. Globally, the company expects 2025 revenues to surpass $4.2 billion.
To secure long-term success, analysts say Pop Mart must prove it can thrive beyond viral trends. Unlike Disney or Sanrio, it doesn’t yet have a decades-long track record of monetizing original characters. However, with global expansion already underway, Pop Mart is building the foundation for lasting impact.
The Battle Against Fakes
Pop Mart has trademarked “Labubu” internationally since 2016 and in the U.S. since 2019. China, surprisingly, has tightened efforts against Lafufu exports, with customs officers seizing thousands of counterfeits.
Legal battles are also heating up. Pop Mart Americas recently sued 7-Eleven stores in California for selling fakes. Analysts expect more lawsuits to follow, though counterfeit risks may fade as Pop Mart increases production.
Still, consumer safety remains a concern. The U.K. and U.S. regulators warn fake Labubus may pose choking hazards. Real Labubus come with distinct markers, like holographic stickers, QR codes, and a precise nine-tooth grin.
Why Lafufus Still Sell
Lafufus often have flaws—mismatched colors, awkward proportions, or crooked faces. Yet, those imperfections make them oddly charming. Social media has embraced this “imperfect aesthetic,” making Lafufus trendy in their own right.
For some collectors, Lafufus are easier to buy, cheaper, and available at unexpected places. Even devoted Labubu fans admit that Lafufus add fun to their collections, though many still prefer owning at least one authentic Pop Mart toy.
Pop Mart’s Next Move
To keep attention on the original, Pop Mart has launched new versions of Labubu. CEO Wang Ning recently announced a mini edition, similar to the cult-favorite Sonny Angels. The news sent Pop Mart’s stock soaring 14%, signaling investor confidence in fresh product innovation.
With 50 new stores opened worldwide in 2025 alone, Pop Mart aims to capture a bigger international audience. Analysts predict that by 2034, international sales could account for 70% of its revenue.
A Trend or Here to Stay?
From gold-plated Labubus to celebrity endorsements, the craze has reached every corner of pop culture. Yet, even loyal fans wonder if the hype will last. Some say the fad could fade within a year as consumers move on to the next trend.
For now, Lafufus and Labubus are both thriving, feeding off each other in a cycle of hype, humor, and demand. Whether this is just a playful phase or the start of a global collectible empire depends on Pop Mart’s next moves.
Stay tuned with Maple Wire for more global trend insights and breaking updates.
