Louis Vuitton demands compensation from Hong Kong hairdresser over patterned chair

The salon’s owner, a man surnamed Chan, said LVMH sent him a “deed of undertaking” initially demanding HK$25,000 in compensation and a published apology.

The company eventually agreed to reduce the amount by half to HK$12,500, but still required Chan to publish the apology on or before next Thursday.

The company said they found an adjustable stool and reclining shampoo chair in Chan’s salon covered in a fabric that closely resembled the brand’s iconic check pattern. Chan has since removed the chequered covers but claims he cannot afford to pay.

"In the case of Apple Daily, we follow a cooperative approach to encourage the infringer to sign an undertaking, publish an acknowledgement of our trademark rights and bear a portion of the [infringement] costs," said a statement issued by Louis Vuitton Asia Pacific's spokesperson on Thursday.

"In majority of cases, we reach an agreement with the infringer that is reasonable to both parties yet ensuring the application of the law."