Hej, the Danish furniture industry has an outstanding reputation for exquisite design and quality workmanship. But in recent years the industry has faced a growing challenge: the emergence of replicas of Danish furniture. These replicas, such as the Wishbone Chair, the PH5 lamp or the EM77, are popular with many consumers , but they are not without consequences.
To a survey by “ Danish Rights Alliance “ in 2021, more than 10% of Danes bought a copy of a design icon . And this demand is expected to rise to 19% in the future. In Germany alone, 8.6 million counterfeit products were taken out of circulation by customs in 2022. This certainly includes furniture .
Counterfeit products, you often only think of designer watches, handbags, fashion and jerseys, don’t you? I spoke to three experts from Denmark (Knud Erik Hansen, CEO of Carl Hansen and Søn , Michael Ring, CEO of Stelton and David Obel Rosenkvist, Chief Commercial & Creative Officer of Louis Poulsen), who are themselves Danish Making and selling design icons. What is your view of the situation?
What are the reasons for buying replicas?
Price attractiveness compared to originals
- Replica furniture is significantly cheaper than its original version.
- Consumers see it as a cheap way to afford the design they want
Buying replicas of Danish furniture is because of the price attractiveness compared to the original versions. Replica furniture is often available at a fraction of the price of the original furniture. This makes them extremely tempting for consumers who are on a budget or not willing to spend a lot of money on a piece of furniture. Being able to afford the design you want without breaking the bank is a deciding factor for many when choosing replicas. However, it is important to note that the lower price may also come with certain risks and consequences, as explained in the next sections.
Reproductions are stolen products
Knud Erik Hansen, CEO of Carl Hansen and Søn : „Well, of course it’s sad, because reproductions are stolen products. There are architects who dedicate their lives to it and many of them invest considerable time, to come up with their ideas, putting things together and learning. Then they design a piece of furniture or something like that and someone just copies it. It can take years to create something that is finished and exactly like they imagined it. However, it is disheartening to see it being stolen and mass-produced to poor quality. Unfortunately, this is happening in many parts of the world.“
The EM77 costs as much as a hot dog per year
Michael Ring from Stelton: „The main problem is that people are always trying to get a good bargain . And the copy clearly isn’t the same product because it’s not made in one piece like the EM77. It won’t persist. And people will say, ‚Well, this might cost twice as much.‘ And they might think we’re ripping them off, but we’re not, we make affordable products for everyday life I’m inclined to say if you take the ABS version of the EM77 it costs about like a hot dog per year. And then people say, ‚A hot dog? How can that be?‘ Well, it lasts more than 20 years. It costs less per year than a hot dog or a good cup of coffee from a café. And why not have a beautiful , original design created by a designer, architect or artist designed and bring it home where you can have it for 20 years and not get tired of looking at it? It is superbly made instead of taking a copy which nobody designed, there are no rights to it, and it’s just normal greed that drove them to sell this product.“
The PH5 is the most copied
David Obel Rosenkvist: I don’t know exactly, but the PH5 is probably a lamp that’s been copied a lot and has been for some time. It is very famous , known worldwide and is probably considered one of the best lighting designs of all time. It has been on the market since 1958 and is therefore widely used, known and appreciated by many. This is often the reason why others are interested in making imitations of the product.
Availability on online marketplaces and flea markets
- Replicas are often offered on platforms such as online marketplaces and vintage markets.
- The easy accessibility makes the purchase easier for interested buyers.
Another major reason for buying replicas of Danish furniture is the high availability of these replicas on online marketplaces and vintage markets . These platforms offer a wide selection of replicas that are easily accessible to interested buyers. With easy and convenient online shopping, consumers can search for replica furniture from the comfort of their own homes and order them directly. People often even think that they got a bargain and bought an original.
Vintage markets are also popular places to look for bargains and special pieces , and you can often find replicas of Danish furniture here as well .
Lack of awareness of consequences and risks
- Many consumers are unaware of the consequences of buying replicas.
- A lack of understanding of the impact on the design industry and the quality of the products plays a role.
A significant factor driving the purchase of replicas of Danish furniture is the lack of awareness among many consumers about the consequences of purchasing replicas. There is often a lack of understanding of the far-reaching implications for the design industry and product quality. You may think that buying replica furniture doesn’t mean much, or that it’s a benign practice.
Knud Erik Hansen: „It’s a whole process of designing, manufacturing and drying the wood . For example, when we make an oak chair, we dry the wood for over a year. That costs a lot of money. We choose carefully Cut out the best pieces and make sure there are no flaws or imperfections in the wood. “
It is crucial that consumers are informed of the true implications in order to make an informed and ethical choice. Through education campaigns and increased awareness of the consequences of buying replicas, we can help consumers reconsider their choices when it comes to buying furniture from Denmark and what it means better understand original designs and the appreciation of intellectual property.
In which areas are there replicas?
Replicas are made and sold in different areas. Here are some examples of products that are often replicated :
- Furniture: Designer chairs, sofas, tables and other pieces of furniture are often the subject of replicas. Classic designs such as Carl Hansen and Søn’s Wishbone Chair are popular reproductions.
- Lighting: Designer lamps and fixtures are also common targets for replicas. Popular designs such as Poul Henningsen’s PH lights or Arne Jacobsen’s AJ lights are often imitated.
- Accessories: The EM77 jug from Stelton, but also watches, jewellery, handbags, purses and sunglasses are often counterfeited. Designer brands such as Rolex, Cartier, Louis Vuitton and Gucci are affected.
- Clothing: Counterfeiting is common in designer clothing, particularly brands such as Chanel, Versace, Prada and Balenciaga. Replicas of designer clothing are often offered at lower prices to give the impression of luxury fashion.
- Electronics: Popular electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and headphones are also being counterfeited. Brands like Apple, Samsung and Bose are often affected .
- Shoes: Designer brands like Nike, Adidas, Christian Louboutin and Jimmy Choo are often used for fake shoes. Replica sneakers are particularly common.
Risks and consequences of buying a replica
Inferior quality and lack of security
- Replica furniture is often made with inferior materials and poor workmanship.
- lead to problems such as instability , lack of durability, and security risks .
Replica products are often made with inferior materials and poor workmanship. As a result, they lack the stability and durability of the original furniture. The use of inferior materials and poor workmanship lead to unstable constructions that pose safety risks for users. There is a risk of collapse and accidents resulting in personal injury. In addition, replica furniture may not meet the required safety standards. In contrast, original furniture is manufactured to strict quality standards and undergoes extensive testing and certification to ensure safety and durability. It is therefore advisable to use original furniture to avoid security risks.
Knud Erik Hansen: „Our chairs, for example, can last for hundreds of years. I have seen chairs that my father sold in the foyer of the local hospital in 1958 and they are still there, with the original leather, with about 100 people sitting on it every day. It’s incredibly cost effective when you consider the annual cost from 1958 to the present day. So it’s not an expensive investment.“
Danger! Why you shouldn’t buy fakes
- It can happen that the counterfeit product from abroad does not even arrive at your home, as customs can confiscate counterfeit items.
- If the counterfeit product does reach you, there is a very high risk that it will break quickly or be of inferior quality.
- As soon as you determine that it is a counterfeit, you should inform the original manufacturer so that they can take legal action against the seller.
- If you were not aware that it was plagiarism, you usually do not have to fear any legal consequences.
- It is important that you do not knowingly resell the counterfeit product.
Lack of warranty and customer service
- Unlike original furniture , replicas often do not come with any warranty or after-sales service.
- Buyers are on their own in the event of problems or defects .
Another disadvantage of replica furniture compared to original furniture is that they often do not come with any warranty or after-sales services. In the event of problems, defects or defects, buyers are on their own. There is no support from the manufacturer or seller to fix the problems or offer a replacement. This poses a significant risk for the buyers as they may end up with unusable furniture for which they will not receive a solution or refund. In contrast, original furniture usually offers warranties and after-sales services to ensure customers are happy and any problems are addressed.
This is also confirmed by David Obel Rosenkvist: „In the worst case, at least you have no warranty or guarantee for aging, durability or manufacture. We take great care to ensure that our products and designs can be repaired, that we Have spare parts and that we can replace electronic components knowing that if properly maintained or cared for the designs and products will last a lifetime or even longer. They can have a second life, resold, upgraded, and repaired. All of this is part of the original designs . So, yeah, obviously you’re not going to get any of that with fakes or replicas. But it also depends on what you’re getting. I mean, what you value in an original design is all of these dimensions together: the quality, the uniqueness,the design, the durability, and the story behind it. And you don’t get that with a replica. So if it’s a budget issue is, choose something different and consider it an investment for life, for comfort and as something you will cherish. I think you won’t appreciate it if it’s not an original product.“
Copyright and Intellectual Property Infringement
- Buying replicas encourages intellectual property theft and violates copyright laws.
- Design companies and designers are restricted in their creativity and innovation.
Buying replicas encourages intellectual property theft and violates copyrights. Design companies and designers are constrained in their creativity and innovation as their original designs are copied without consent and compensation. This reduces motivation for new ideas and hampers progress in the design industry. Protecting intellectual property and supporting original designs is vital to fostering creativity and innovation in the industry.
Connections to organized crime
- Trade in counterfeit furniture may have links to organized criminal networks.
- lead to further illegal activities such as human trafficking, drug trafficking and forced labour.
Trade in counterfeit furniture may be linked to organized criminal networks. This can lead to support for other illegal activities such as human trafficking, drug trafficking and forced labour. By buying replicas, consumers indirectly help fuel these criminal activities. It is important to be aware that buying counterfeit furniture can have a negative impact on society and supports the trade in illegal products. By relying on original furniture, you can help curb these illegal practices and promote an ethical and safe culture of consumption.
Impact on the Danish design industry
Economic impact on the Danish furniture industry
- The trade in replicas affects the economic stability and growth of the Danish furniture industry.
- Design companies face lost sales and jobs.
Trade in replicas has a negative impact on the economic stability and growth of the Danish furniture industry. Design companies suffer from lost sales and face job losses. By consumers buying replicas instead of endorsing the original furniture, the demand for authentic products is diminished. This creates financial challenges for design companies and may hamper the growth of the entire industry in the long term. It is therefore important to be aware of the impact of trading in replicas and to support the Danish furniture industry by buying original furniture.
Knud Erik Hansen: „A counterfeit chair is usually made as a compromise. Manufacturers of counterfeits compete on price and with each other. In contrast, we compete purely on quality. It’s like comparing a Swiss watch to a Swiss watch watch made in China. There’s a big difference. The Chinese watch might last a few years before being thrown away, while a Rolex will last and appreciate in value for generations. The same goes for our M If you buy a 40-year-old Wishbone chair at auction in the US, you’re paying more than you would for a brand -new one made today.“
Challenges for maintaining and developing the craft
- The production of original furniture requires specialized craftsmanship and traditional manufacturing techniques.
- The replica market is endangering these skills and cultural heritage.
The production of original furniture requires highly specialized craftsmanship and the use of traditional manufacturing techniques. These skills and techniques are part of Denmark’s cultural DNA .
Knud Erik Hansen: „People here in Denmark have been doing excellent work since Viking times or even before. We have developed skills in making things out of wood. In many other countries you have plenty of raw materials like iron and oil, but we have nothing. We have nothing but chalk, which isn’t very useful. However, we have our brains, our hands and the know-how to make things like wooden furniture. We’re experts at this one Territory and by far the best in the world. We are like Swiss watchmakers, but we make furniture. I love this skill and I have made the decision to make my furniture in Denmark.“
The replica market poses a threat to these skills and heritage as it causes the demand for authentic furniture to decrease. When craftsmanship and traditional manufacturing techniques are lost, a piece of cultural identity is also lost.
Importance of original designs for Danish cultural identity
- Danish furniture is a symbol of quality, aesthetics and Danish culture.
- Buying replicas diminishes the pride and importance of these original designs.
Danish furniture stands for quality, aesthetics and is a symbol of Danish culture. They embody the pride and identity of the country. Buying replicas diminishes the pride and importance of these original designs. It is important to maintain respect and appreciation for original furniture in order to keep the importance and influence of the Danish design tradition.
Knud Erik Hansen is proud of the Danish design tradition: „I can go home every night with a clear conscience and say that I make fantastic furniture.“
Michael Ring states: „We have chosen one of the most well-known designers, but we also work with smaller designers who may not be as famous as Erik Magnussen, Norman Foster or Arne Jacobsen. Our commitment to these designers is to defend their designs as they only give us the production and distribution rights. The design rights still belong to the designers.“
David Obel Rosenkvist sees it similarly: „Well, at a time when we are becoming increasingly aware of the footprint we leave on this planet, of sustainability and the responsible use of resources, it is not only important to being aware of this and investing in quality products that last is not only beneficial for your own enjoyment, appreciation and design value, but also a sustainable choice for our resources and the world These are products that last for many years, often even a lifetime, and are a much better way to consume.“
Measures against the trade in replicas
Strengthen copyright protection and design rights
- Improving the legal framework and enforcing copyright and design rights.
- Promotion of international cooperation against counterfeiting.
Curb the trade in replicas, it is important to improve the legal framework and strengthen the enforcement of copyright and design rights. This requires close cooperation between different countries and organizations to fight counterfeiting. Measures should be taken to intensify criminal prosecution of sellers and manufacturers of replica furniture and create legal consequences for violations. Through increased international cooperation, effective measures can be taken to ensure the protection of original designs and curb the market for counterfeit products. In Europe this is easier. But there are major challenges globally.
Michael Ring, CEO of Stelton, takes action against copies: „Overall, however, we have many copies of our products and we usually try to solve the problem without going to court as the legal costs are enormous. Nine times out of ten we succeed us to stop making the copies, sometimes not (…) And what we’re trying to do is get them (the counterfeiting companies) to pull the products off the market and still maintain a good relationship „Sometimes we don’t succeed and then we have to go to court. Our approach is to bring these incidents to the public, which harms the companies that copy our products. Stelton is big enough to to be able to afford this approach, but smaller companies may not have the same resources when dealing with large retail chains or supermarkets, too bad, but that ’s how the system works Going to court is expensive.“
Carl Hansen and Søn also take legal action and compare furniture with luxury watches. Knud Erik Hansen: „Yes, that’s what lawyers do. We give them tips and also pay for their services. But we ca n’t withstand the strong pressure that comes from everywhere. I think that’s it everyone is like that. There are fake Rolexes and Rolex is well aware of this. They are sold in markets in Hong Kong, New York and around the world, but they are not real Rolexes. We all know that. When people want a Rolex, they go to a reputable store to buy it. That goes for furniture too.“
Louis Poulsen’s legal department is also active, as David Obel Rosenkvist reports: „We have our legal department at Louis Poulsen, which deals with these matters on a day-to- day basis. Although we do not have full-time positions dedicated exclusively to this topic, we integrate anti -counterfeiting measures into our existing structure and use the tools available It is important to remember that combating counterfeiting is an ongoing process and we need to act quickly, when we encounter violations.“
Educating the public about risks and consequences
- Information campaigns to educate consumers about the consequences of buying a replica.
- Imparting an awareness of the importance of original designs and the negative impact of replicas.
Information campaigns play a crucial role in educating consumers about the consequences of buying a replica. They aim to raise awareness of the importance of original designs and the negative impact of replicas. These campaigns can use various channels such as social media, print media and events to inform consumers about the risks and consequences of buying a replica. Through targeted education, consumers can be encouraged to make informed choices and appreciate the value of original designs . It is of great importance that consumers understand the importance of original furniture and help support the creativity and innovation in the design industry . Danish design brands receive support from the Danish Rights Alliance and Be Original Amaericas , among others .
Cooperation between the design industry, authorities and consumer protection organisations
- Joint Efforts to Monitor and Combat Trade in Replicas.
- Encourage collaboration and exchange of information to detect counterfeits.
Effectively combating the trade in replicas requires a concerted effort to monitor and combat . This requires increased collaboration between governments, law enforcement agencies , design firms and other relevant stakeholders. As mentioned above , over eight million counterfeit products have been confiscated by customs .
By sharing information and working together to detect counterfeits, illegal activities can be identified and countered more effectively . It is important that all stakeholders work together to develop and implement a comprehensive approach to combating the trade in replicas . Only through a coordinated approach can the spread of counterfeit products be contained and the protection of original designs guaranteed .
What to do?
Buying replicas of Danish furniture involves significant risks and has a negative impact on the Danish design industry. It is of great importance to raise awareness of this issue and take measures to protect original design and cultural identity. By appreciating and supporting the value of original furniture, we contribute to the long-term development and preservation of Danish design tradition.
But what can you do if you can’t afford an original? You either buy a used piece of furniture and make sure it isn’t a fake, or you try to save. A fake is by no means an alternative, no matter how great the desire for a design icon. With the original, it is important to look for the serial numbers, to buy from reputable dealers and to look closely at the stickers, packaging, etc.
Alternatively, you can buy a piece of furniture or a lamp that is not so expensive, but is not a copy.
