Jellycat has initiated a copyright claim against TJ Morris, the parent company of Home Bargains. This action, filed with the Patents Court, is part of an ongoing effort by the British toymaker against retailers it claims are replicating its trademark stuffed dolls.
The toymaker, known for its whimsical plushies, has seen a surge in popularity, particularly among Gen-Z shoppers. Its range includes traditional animals and more unusual items like cuddly teapots and avocados.
In recent months, social media platforms have featured videos showcasing alleged "dupe" Jellycat products, such as doughnut, pancake, and matcha latte plushies, reportedly available at Home Bargains. These videos have garnered millions of views.
Jellycat's legal action against TJ Morris follows previous claims this year against retailers including Morrisons, Next, and Hamleys. The company's first copyright suit was filed against Aldi in June 2024. Last week, Jellycat also filed a patent claim against e-commerce retailer Online Home Shop.
A Jellycat spokesperson stated in May regarding the Next and Hamleys lawsuits: “We put skill and love into creating every Jellycat character, so we’re obviously very protective of our designs and our fans. We are not commenting further at this time.”