Posted on Friday 22nd August 2025
Fake 'Labubu' dolls uncovered by Trading Standards at Penkridge Market.
Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards team are warning against buying dangerous fake Labubu dolls after seizing more than 800 counterfeits from a market in Penkridge.
Labubu dolls, an elf-like doll created by Chinese toy maker Pop Mart, surged in popularity last year and cheap counterfeits have been appearing ever since.
Around 840 fake dolls were seized from several vendors at Penkridge Market on Wednesday 20 August, following a tip off to the county council’s trading standards team.
A further 200 counterfeit Labubu accessories including key rings, bags and fake branded clothes for the dolls were also confiscated.
Trading Standards officers warn that these poor-quality imitations, which come apart quite easily, pose a choking hazard to children whilst some are also filled with harmful chemicals.
Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“We are determined to crack down on counterfeiters and people who think it is acceptable to sell fake and harmful goods to the public, like these knock-off Labubu dolls.
“Counterfeit products aren’t just a con - they can be dangerous to your health, your safety, and your community. Every fake sold puts people at risk and takes money from honest local businesses. When you’re shopping, especially at markets or car boot sales, think twice. If the deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.”
Trading standards officers also seized 46 counterfeit Apple Air Pods and 143 illegal vapes from various traders at Penkridge market.
Last year, Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards service seized thousands of illegal and harmful counterfeit goods including alcohol, tobacco, cosmetics, football shirts, designer clothes and accessories.
People can report counterfeit goods sales online at Trading Standards Report It - Staffordshire County Council or call the confidential helpline on 01785 330356.