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Tokyo Berry Faces Copycat Allegations Over Resemblance to Tokyo Banana
Critics Say "Design and Phrases Are Excessively Similar"

Product packaging of Tokyo Banana (left) and Tokyo Berry. SNS capture

Recently, the dessert brand "Tokyo Berry," which has quickly gained recognition through pop-up stores in domestic department stores, has become embroiled in controversy over its similarity to "Tokyo Banana," a renowned Japanese souvenir brand. Critics argue that the resemblance goes beyond merely borrowing a concept, pointing out that the overall design is excessively similar and is causing consumer confusion. In fact, it has been reported that some customers purchased the product under the mistaken belief that it was a new item from a Japanese brand or a related brand.

Logos, Phrases, Illustrations—Practically Identical... "Thought It Was a New Product from Tokyo Banana"

Recently, criticism has rapidly spread on social networking services (SNS), claiming that Tokyo Berry’s product packaging is reminiscent of Tokyo Banana. Observers have pointed out that elements such as the logo’s font, the placement of fruit illustrations, the packaging structure, and even the engraved mark on the lower right side are all similar, highlighting resemblances throughout the overall design.

One user commented, "I thought Tokyo Banana had released a new product," while another criticized, "Unless it is an official collaboration or is properly licensed, this is essentially imitation." Actual cases of mistaken purchases have also emerged. One individual shared, "I bought it thinking the manufacturer of Tokyo Banana had launched a new strawberry version."

'Tokyo Sensibility' Marketing Sparks Controversy... Questions Raised About Retailers’ Responsibility

The brand’s promotional phrases have also come under fire. Tokyo Berry has continued pop-up events at department stores nationwide by promoting itself with the message "The flavors of seasonal fruit and the sensibility of Tokyo just as they are." However, criticism has arisen over the potential for consumer misunderstanding, as it has become known that the brand is not actually a Japanese-based company.

Some consumers have also pointed to the responsibility of distribution channels. One user remarked, "They advertise it as if it’s a brand from Tokyo, but shouldn’t they first check whether there is an actual store?"—calling out department stores for a lack of scrutiny. At present, a significant number of prior posts have been deleted from Tokyo Berry’s official Instagram account.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.