In-N-Out Copycat Pops Up Overseas

Image from Reddit.

The ad copy at this unnamed burger joint coming soon to Shanghai seems awfully familiar.

"Double-Double"? "Animal-Style"? "Protein Style"? A reader on Reddit think it's some kind of sick joke.

The editors over at our sister site Shanghaiist confirmed that no, In-N-Out — a chain that hasn't even made it to the East Coast — is not coming to China. They added: "But we'll take a fake In-n-Out over none, right?"

It will be interesting to see how In-N-Out headquarters in Irvine handle this international copycat. The company isn't afraid to sue and take down anyone who tries to copy the company's distinctive look and feel domestically.

Contact the author of this article or email tips@laist.com with further questions, comments or tips.

By Emma G. Gallegos in Food on September 17, 2011 2:30 PM

Comments [rss]

SamWillard

It's actually an American IP attorney doing it, taking advantage of the fact that In 'n Out never registered their trademarks in China. Now who do you want to stereotype?

SamWillard

It's actually an American IP attorney doing it, taking advantage of the fact that In 'N Out never registered their trademarks in China. Now who do you want to stereotype?

Sergio Marquez

I was walking to work 3 days ago and walked by this same exact sign. It is really up here in shanghai in jing'an I hate to see In-N-Out get ripped like this but my salivating mouth and stomach that yerns to eat In-N-Out. I couldn't be happier especially since I live like 2 block from this sign. I need a 4x4 in my life!!! hopefully they do a decent job copying the recipes but knowing the Chinese... i don't think i have a chance. I will try to post back here when it opens.

Chet

Good luck suing in China. If you are not a Chinese company it takes about two years and cost between US$500K - 1M - just in court costs. Attorneys are extra. The maximum penalty against the infringing party: about US$7,500. Usually they accept the judgement, go down the street and start again a month later.

(It happened to me)

hN9S9

damn chinese and their ching chong chopstick IP thievery

Doran

Wow. Really? Racist much?

hN9S9

oops...just got caught up in the chinese bashing

Alexander James Begg

Not to mention, "Quality You Can Taste" is In-N-Out's registered trademark. That alone could result in a court case. Same goes for Double Double, and probably those other names too. They even included the trademark symbols! Crazy china.

IGarcia

Man I hate that we have to use Chinese products. It's almost everyday that you hear about them stealing other people's ideas. They have no shame at all.