Latest news with #RhonddaCynonTafCouncil
Scottish Sun
31-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
TikTokers go wild for the ‘NEXT Labubus' in new collectable toy wave – and it's a fraction of the price
After becoming a hit in China, the dolls have started to enter the global market TOY JOY TikTokers go wild for the 'NEXT Labubus' in new collectable toy wave – and it's a fraction of the price Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) TIKTOK is raving about a collection of new plush toys that have been dubbed the 'next Labubus'. Fans are eyeing up another brand strikingly similar to the cult collectable dolls seen dangling from the designer bags of Rihanna, Kim Kardashian and David Beckham. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Wakuku dolls are being compared to Labubus Credit: Instagram / @ 4 As is the case with Labubus, shoppers can buy a blind box of the dolls Credit: Walmart 4 Wakuku dolls are forest characters Credit: Instagram / @ Labubus have taken the internet by storm - with Chinese toymaker Pop Mart's valuation skyrocketing to £31.6bn. But now some TikTokers are calling the plushies designed by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung old news. The latest craze, Wakuku, is a collection of playful plush dolls sold by Chinese retail chain Miniso Group Holding. As with Labubus, fans can buy the dolls in blind boxes - a clever marketing ploy to add an element of surprise to purchases. One Wakuku doll currently costs around £19.56 on the fast fashion retailer Shein, while a single Labubu can cost anywhere from £13.50 to £211 online and at stores, depending on the rarity of the design. A single blind box of six Wakuku dolls costs around £22 at the US retailer Walmart. On the other hand, a blind box of six Labubus will set you back around £105. Fans of the latest trend were quick to spot a key-chain of a Wakuku doll on TikTok shop. Besides their differences in price, the two brands' dolls differ in their appearance. Labubu is a character inspired by Nordic fairy tales, while Wakuku is described as a rebellious wild child roaming the forest. Dramatic moment crowds join massive queue to grab viral Labubu dolls as latest doll craze sweeps across the world Wakuku dolls have so far proven immensely popular in China, with long lines of people seen queuing at Miniso stores. It comes as parents in Wales were recently warned about fake Labubu dolls that that may pose a risk to children's safety. Rhondda Cynon Taf Council issued a warning after discovering the counterfeit toys in Pontypridd, prompting customs to seize over 32 keyrings and 95 boxes of the fake dolls. The toys were found to lack essential safety testing required to ensure compliance with regulations. Rhian Hope, Head of Public Protection and Regulatory Services at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, told Wales Online: "Counterfeit toys can potentially pose significant dangers to young children such as chemical exposure and choking hazards. "These products routinely lack proper safety testing and we encourage anyone concerned about the safety of toys they've purchased to get in touch with us via Consumer Advice." Real Labubu dolls are stocked at various UK retailers, including stores at London's Oxford Street and Manchester's Chinatown district. The trending dolls are also sold on Amazon and Pop Mart's website.
The Irish Sun
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Troubling warning to parents over fake Labubu dolls in UK as thousands of toys risk ‘chemical exposure'
PARENTS have been warned about fake Labubu dolls hitting the UK shore as they could pose a serious harm. A Welsh council has issued a warning after discovering counterfeit toys in Pontypridd. 2 Parents have been warned over fake Labubus sold in the UK Credit: 2 The counterfeit toys didn't pass safety tests Credit: Facebook/Rhondda Cynon Taf Council After mammoth success overseas, the Labubu craze has now made its way to the UK. A single Labubu, a plushie designed by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, can cost anywhere from £13.50 A blind box of six from Pop Mart will set you back a whopping £105. Meanwhile, the counterfeit Labubus were being sold for as little as £2.99 and £3.99. read more on news Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has seized more than 32 keyrings and 95 boxes of these fake dolls. Safety risk It was discovered that the toys lacked essential safety testing that guarantees they adhere to regulations. Rhian Hope, Head of Public Protection and Regulatory Services at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, told "These counterfeit toys can seem like a bargain compared with trying to source the genuine toy, especially when they are a much-sought-after item, but they are potentially dangerous. Most read in The Sun "Counterfeit toys can potentially pose significant dangers to young children such as chemical exposure and choking hazards. "These products routinely lack proper safety testing and we encourage anyone concerned about the safety of toys they've purchased to get in touch with us via Consumer Advice." I snagged one of the viral Labubu dolls in Dublin store and unboxing was a huge success The council has warned parents that unauthorised electrical toys can result in fires or electrocution while toxic materials can cause burns and serious injury. Bargain hunters should also be aware that phoney and cheap toys can shatter and create injuries or choking risks. Councillor Bob Harris, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities, said: "These counterfeiters are cashing in on the latest craze and prioritising profit over safety. "As well as infringing the genuine product's trademark, they are not carrying out the required testing to ensure the product is safe." How to spot a fake Labubu Packaging: Real Labubu's come in a box with a matte finish and smooth feel. QR code: Newer Labubu's have a QR code that takes you to Pop Mart's website and confirm if they're real or fake Features: Real Labubu's have ears that point slightly inward, nine teeth, bright and lively eyes (not closed) and pale, peachy faces. Quality: Real Labubu's have soft fur and seamless stitching. Foot stamp: Labubu's have a Pop Mart logo on their right foot UKCA/CE Mark : MOST IMPORTANT - there should be UKCA/CE mark on the product itself (unless too small - in which case must be supplied with the item, e.g. on box) and there needs to be a name of importer into the UK (i.e. a UK on the label). Source: Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Businesses face legal action The council's Trading Standards division has already confiscated the counterfeit goods and will destroy them. Firms found selling the fake Labubus risk facing legal action if they don't stop immediately. Harris continued: "Enforcement is always a last resort, that is only undertaken when we believe a law has been broken that would cause harm to the public. "But the message is clear: if you are found selling these items, we will take action!" Parents have been advised to buy only from trusted, verified merchants to avoid risks to health. The Sun has reached out to Pop Mart for a comment. Where to buy Labubu ? Labubu dolls are sold on Among these are London's famous Oxford Street, as well as Westfield shopping centres and Manchester's Chinatown district. Pop Mart is a Chinese toy retailer, known for its collectible designer models that are often sold in a blind box format, meaning you don't know what you've got until you've opened it.
Scottish Sun
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Troubling warning to parents over fake Labubu dolls in UK as thousands of toys risk ‘chemical exposure'
Plus, tips on how to spot a fake Labubu 'BE VIGILANT' Troubling warning to parents over fake Labubu dolls in UK as thousands of toys risk 'chemical exposure' PARENTS have been warned about fake Labubu dolls hitting the UK shore as they could pose a serious harm. A Welsh council has issued a warning after discovering counterfeit toys in Pontypridd. 2 Parents have been warned over fake Labubus sold in the UK Credit: 2 The counterfeit toys didn't pass safety tests Credit: Facebook/Rhondda Cynon Taf Council After mammoth success overseas, the Labubu craze has now made its way to the UK. A single Labubu, a plushie designed by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, can cost anywhere from £13.50 to £211, depending on the rarity of the design. A blind box of six from Pop Mart will set you back a whopping £105. Meanwhile, the counterfeit Labubus were being sold for as little as £2.99 and £3.99. Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has seized more than 32 keyrings and 95 boxes of these fake dolls. Safety risk It was discovered that the toys lacked essential safety testing that guarantees they adhere to regulations. Rhian Hope, Head of Public Protection and Regulatory Services at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, told Wales Online: "Following the discovery of counterfeit toys, we want to alert consumers and particularly parents to be extra vigilant. "These counterfeit toys can seem like a bargain compared with trying to source the genuine toy, especially when they are a much-sought-after item, but they are potentially dangerous. "Counterfeit toys can potentially pose significant dangers to young children such as chemical exposure and choking hazards. "These products routinely lack proper safety testing and we encourage anyone concerned about the safety of toys they've purchased to get in touch with us via Consumer Advice." I snagged one of the viral Labubu dolls in Dublin store and unboxing was a huge success The council has warned parents that unauthorised electrical toys can result in fires or electrocution while toxic materials can cause burns and serious injury. Bargain hunters should also be aware that phoney and cheap toys can shatter and create injuries or choking risks. Councillor Bob Harris, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities, said: "These counterfeiters are cashing in on the latest craze and prioritising profit over safety. "As well as infringing the genuine product's trademark, they are not carrying out the required testing to ensure the product is safe." How to spot a fake Labubu Packaging: Real Labubu's come in a box with a matte finish and smooth feel. Real Labubu's come in a box with a matte finish and smooth feel. QR code: Newer Labubu's have a QR code that takes you to Pop Mart's website and confirm if they're real or fake Newer Labubu's have a QR code that takes you to Pop Mart's website and confirm if they're real or fake Features: Real Labubu's have ears that point slightly inward, nine teeth, bright and lively eyes (not closed) and pale, peachy faces. Real Labubu's have ears that point slightly inward, nine teeth, bright and lively eyes (not closed) and pale, peachy faces. Quality: Real Labubu's have soft fur and seamless stitching. Real Labubu's have soft fur and seamless stitching. Foot stamp: Labubu's have a Pop Mart logo on their right foot Labubu's have a Pop Mart logo on their right foot UKCA/CE Mark: MOST IMPORTANT - there should be UKCA/CE mark on the product itself (unless too small - in which case must be supplied with the item, e.g. on box) and there needs to be a name of importer into the UK (i.e. a UK on the label). Source: Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Businesses face legal action The council's Trading Standards division has already confiscated the counterfeit goods and will destroy them. Firms found selling the fake Labubus risk facing legal action if they don't stop immediately. Harris continued: "Enforcement is always a last resort, that is only undertaken when we believe a law has been broken that would cause harm to the public. "But the message is clear: if you are found selling these items, we will take action!" Parents have been advised to buy only from trusted, verified merchants to avoid risks to health. The Sun has reached out to Pop Mart for a comment. Where to buy Labubu? Labubu dolls are sold on Amazon, the Pop Mart website, as well as in the toy retailer's various UK outlets. Among these are London's famous Oxford Street, as well as Westfield shopping centres and Manchester's Chinatown district. Pop Mart is a Chinese toy retailer, known for its collectible designer models that are often sold in a blind box format, meaning you don't know what you've got until you've opened it.
The Sun
18-07-2025
- The Sun
Troubling warning to parents over fake Labubu dolls in UK as thousands of toys risk ‘chemical exposure'
PARENTS have been warned about fake Labubu dolls hitting the UK shore as they could pose a serious harm. A Welsh council has issued a warning after discovering counterfeit toys in Pontypridd. 2 2 After mammoth success overseas, the Labubu craze has now made its way to the UK. A single Labubu, a plushie designed by Hong Kong -born artist Kasing Lung, can cost anywhere from £13.50 to £211, depending on the rarity of the design. A blind box of six from Pop Mart will set you back a whopping £105. Meanwhile, the counterfeit Labubus were being sold for as little as £2.99 and £3.99. Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has seized more than 32 keyrings and 95 boxes of these fake dolls. Safety risk It was discovered that the toys lacked essential safety testing that guarantees they adhere to regulations. Rhian Hope, Head of Public Protection and Regulatory Services at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, told Wales Online: "Following the discovery of counterfeit toys, we want to alert consumers and particularly parents to be extra vigilant. "These counterfeit toys can seem like a bargain compared with trying to source the genuine toy, especially when they are a much-sought-after item, but they are potentially dangerous. "Counterfeit toys can potentially pose significant dangers to young children such as chemical exposure and choking hazards. "These products routinely lack proper safety testing and we encourage anyone concerned about the safety of toys they've purchased to get in touch with us via Consumer Advice." I snagged one of the viral Labubu dolls in Dublin store and unboxing was a huge success The council has warned parents that unauthorised electrical toys can result in fires or electrocution while toxic materials can cause burns and serious injury. Bargain hunters should also be aware that phoney and cheap toys can shatter and create injuries or choking risks. Councillor Bob Harris, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities, said: "These counterfeiters are cashing in on the latest craze and prioritising profit over safety. "As well as infringing the genuine product's trademark, they are not carrying out the required testing to ensure the product is safe." How to spot a fake Labubu Packaging: Real Labubu's come in a box with a matte finish and smooth feel. QR code: Newer Labubu's have a QR code that takes you to Pop Mart's website and confirm if they're real or fake Features: Real Labubu's have ears that point slightly inward, nine teeth, bright and lively eyes (not closed) and pale, peachy faces. Quality: Real Labubu's have soft fur and seamless stitching. Foot stamp: Labubu's have a Pop Mart logo on their right foot UKCA/CE Mark: MOST IMPORTANT - there should be UKCA/CE mark on the product itself (unless too small - in which case must be supplied with the item, e.g. on box) and there needs to be a name of importer into the UK (i.e. a UK on the label). Source: Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Businesses face legal action The council's Trading Standards division has already confiscated the counterfeit goods and will destroy them. Firms found selling the fake Labubus risk facing legal action if they don't stop immediately. Harris continued: "Enforcement is always a last resort, that is only undertaken when we believe a law has been broken that would cause harm to the public. "But the message is clear: if you are found selling these items, we will take action!" Parents have been advised to buy only from trusted, verified merchants to avoid risks to health. The Sun has reached out to Pop Mart for a comment. Where to buy Labubu? Labubu dolls are sold on Amazon, the Pop Mart website, as well as in the toy retailer's various UK outlets. Among these are London's famous Oxford Street, as well as Westfield shopping centres and Manchester's Chinatown district. Pop Mart is a Chinese toy retailer, known for its collectible designer models that are often sold in a blind box format, meaning you don't know what you've got until you've opened it.
Wales Online
09-07-2025
- Wales Online
Bailiff turned up at wrong cafe demanding thousands and refused to leave until paid, claims owner
Bailiff turned up at wrong cafe demanding thousands and refused to leave until paid, claims owner The owner claimed the bailiff was in the wrong Welsh county and said she had to call the police before he would, eventually and without apology, leave Sarah & John Sutton of Clwb Coffi in Tonypandy, Rhondda (Image: Jon Plimmer ) A popular independent coffee shop in Tonypandy has revealed a distressing incident in which bailiffs turned up unannounced at their premises demanding thousands of pounds, all due to a case of mistaken identity. The event took place during a busy Friday morning at Clwb Coffi, an independent coffee shop run by Sarah Sutton and husband John Sutton. According to Sarah, a bailiff entered the premises during peak hours and took her aside, stating that she owed around £2,500 and that he would not leave until the money was paid. Get the latest Rhondda news first by signing up to our newsletter here 'He came in with a bodycam, looked just like you'd imagine a bailiff,' Sarah claimed. 'He told me I owed two and a half grand and wasn't leaving until I paid it." Eventually, she claimed, he showed her details of the alleged debt on his tablet. The charge was for unpaid business rates to Newport City Council. But Clwb Coffi is located in Tonypandy, under Rhondda Cynon Taf Council. 'Straight away I knew it wasn't right,' she said. Despite showing him proof that they had paid their business rates to the correct authority, Sarah claimed the bailiff refused to accept the mistake. 'It was like talking to a brick wall. He kept saying 'it's not my problem' and that he wasn't going anywhere.' Article continues below Sarah went on to describe her concern that the bailiff would not budge. She originally called a local councillor she knew, who advised phoning 999. 'I didn't know what else to do. He wouldn't let me speak to anyone at his company, wouldn't give me a contact or even tell me who he worked for at first,' she claimed. The police arrived and, after some discussion, the situation de-escalated. The bailiff eventually left the premises without offering an apology, claimed Sarah. 'He didn't admit he was wrong, but it became clear he realised there was an issue. He just left after getting upset with the police.' Following the incident, Sarah said it took around three months to receive a small amount of compensation from the company. 'We had to follow up multiple times. There was no immediate apology. It took a month to even get the first response.' In a Facebook post shared after the incident, which happened in April, Clwb Coffi explained why it had waited to go public: 'We haven't shared this story, as we were going through a complaints process and felt it better to keep it offline but I think it's important to share as lots of customers saw this happen.' They claimed they felt intimidated and threatened by the presence of the bailiff and criticised the lack of accountability from the accidental mix-up they got involved in. The post concluded with frustration over the lack of apology and the difficulty of the complaints process. 'If we forgot someone's drink or made a mistake on an order, it genuinely keeps us up at night, and we'll do all we can to make it right. How can companies be so useless at taking accountability?' Article continues below
