How to spot a counterfeit before you buy

What is a copy, legally speaking?

Furniture design and trademarks may be protected under Danish and EU law, just like a logo or patent can be. If a retailer sells an illegal copy of protected design, it is generally the retailer's problem, not yours. But in practice, you are the one left dealing with the consequences: no factory warranty, no access to original spare parts, and no opportunity to become certified for the equipment.

How to spot a copy

• If the price is significantly lower than the original's, that is a warning sign. Quality materials and precision workmanship cost money, regardless of who produces them.
• Check the weight and material. A cast-iron frame weighs and feels different from one made of lightweight metal, even when painted the same color.
• Ask for documentation: is the retailer an official, authorized dealer of the brand? Can they show a serial number or CE marking?
• Ask the manufacturer directly if you are in doubt. Most brands can confirm whether a particular retailer is authorized.

What does an imitation look like in practice?

At first glance, it can be difficult to see the difference. But the manufacturer has often tried to make the product look like the original, not function like it. Think of a washing unit where the client has to lie horizontally for an extended period. The imitation may look good in pictures, but in practice, it feels like a hard treatment table.

Features

A good example is the barber chair Apollo II from Takara Belmont, which is one of the most imitated chairs in the industry. The original is made of cast iron, providing great stability, even when larger clients need to be laid horizontally.

Another example is Spa Mist II from Takara Belmont. Many imitations of Head Spa equipment are entering the European market. Always ask what a product actually contains and whether it has the ultrasonic technology that Spa Mist is built on.

Certifications are an agreement, not just an appearance

A certification such as Head Spa is a contractual agreement between the manufacturer and your salon, tied to specific, original equipment. It cannot be obtained with an imitation, no matter how closely it resembles the original. If you want the opportunity to become a certified Head Spa salon, you must choose the original Head Spa equipment. You can read more about the certification in our Head Spa: questions and answers.

In short

It can be tempting to be lured by a low price or a promising picture online, but you risk paying the price in the long run, without a warranty, spare parts or certification. Of course, buy furniture that fits your budget, but consider your purchase carefully and check the documentation, whatever you buy. Quality is an investment.

If you are in doubt, you are welcome to write to me.