Replicas of Well-Known Brands That Will Make You Chuckle
21 Dec 2023In the world, there are many well-known brands whose names can be left unmentioned. However, alongside them, numerous brands share similarities in name or visual presentation but are independent entities. A compilation of the most creative ones is featured in our article.
1. Numa
Everyone knows the German sports footwear, apparel, and equipment brand Puma. However, few people know that there is a lesser-known brand in the world called Numa. Visually, it is very similar: it even has the Puma logo but is entirely different in terms of name, price, and quality.
@Reddy4Titans-2002/reddit.com
2. Dolce & Banana
Dolce & Banana is a humorous play on the renowned luxury brand Dolce & Gabbana. This parody brand, often seen on various knock-off products, aims to bring a touch of comedy to the world of fashion. Products bearing the Dolce & Banana label are typically inexpensive imitations or humorous merchandise that play on the prestige associated with the original brand. The name itself suggests a lighthearted take on the fashion industry, offering a glimpse into the creative and sometimes cheeky world of knock-off brands.
@[deleted]/reddit.com
3. Michaelsoft Binbows
MichaelSoft Binbows was a Japanese computer repair shop situated in Japan. The images display a sign featuring an outdated Microsoft logo and stylized text resembling the original, mounted on the side of a building as a billboard. While the name might seem amusing, it gains more clarity when you grasp the pun it incorporates: "binbo" is a Japanese term that translates to "cheap."
@Jylerne/reddit.com
4. Sunbucks
Starbucks has long been a target for imitation, with its iconic Siren logo introduced in 1971 becoming a classic symbol replicated by numerous coffee shops and even clothing brands. However, one company has elevated the imitation game to a whole new level: Sunbucks Coffee.
The name alone is sufficient to elicit laughter, and they don't stop at that. They offer a distinctive range of mugs featuring peace signs, infinity symbols, and some with both. What's more, their prices are quite affordable!
@Wnick1996/reddit.com
5. Unusual Marketing Move
In many Asian countries, they use the names of well-known brands for their stores. Their goal is to attract as much attention to their shops as possible. People who see names like Google, WhatsApp, or Play Store are likely to be intrigued and very likely to visit such a store.
@[deleted]/reddit.com
6. iPhone... shoes?
The only thing that connects these shoes and the famous mobile phone brand is the iPhone logo. Manufacturers decided that the well-known name would attract many customers to their sneakers and decided to capitalize on the reputation of the established brand. It's unclear whether their expectations were met, but they certainly garnered attention.
@Yeti_Productions/reddit.com
7. Burger Madam & Sir
It appears that one imitation is entirely focused on replicating Burger King. Burger Madam & Sir employs virtually the same logo as the American burger chain. While it may not be the reigning monarch of burgers, Burger Madam & Sir appears equally respectable as its counterpart.
@kb505/reddit.com
8. Mike Wong
This restaurant based in Switzerland not only imitates McDonald's with its red and yellow color scheme but also incorporates a reversed Nike swoosh. During its peak, Mike Wong served Asian cuisine, including popular dishes like dim sum and Thai green curry, which were praised as delicious and reasonably priced by TripAdvisor users. Unfortunately, the McDonald's knock-off is now out of business.
@Allesschonvergeben/reddit.com
9. Mash Donald’s
McDonald's restaurants were present in Iran before the 1979 revolution, as reported by the New York Times. However, the majority of these establishments were shut down due to widespread anti-American government sanctions. Subsequently, an entrepreneur named Hassan, who opted not to use his full name to avoid potential copyright issues with the American company, established his eatery called Mash Donald's. Recognizing that Iranian customers would appreciate the American logo and a similar name, despite the unpopularity of the American government, Hassan's son suggested the name Mash Donald's. The owner claims that the restaurant aims to closely replicate "the McDonald's experience."
@[deleted]/reddit.com
10. McKebab
In Turkey, the McKebab House adopts McDonald’s iconic color scheme. However, instead of featuring burgers, this establishment is renowned for its kebabs. McKebab has garnered a favorable rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Facebook. According to a customer review, the McKebab House offers "affordable meals," "generous portions," and has a friendly staff.
@welinyknz/reddit.com
11. Stars & Bucks
Stars & Bucks doesn't shy away from emulating Starbucks, one of America's beloved coffee brands. The Palestinian coffee shop features its circular green and white logo, showcasing four coffee cups instead of a mermaid. According to a TripAdvisor review, it's a "must-visit" for anyone in Bethlehem.
@VW_Max/reddit.com
12. Pizza Hat
In Iran, the appearance of Pizza Hut takes a unique turn. The Iranian restaurant repurposes the original fast-food chain's logo, transforming the iconic hut into a hat. The logo prominently showcases a man donning the red hut-turned-hat, evoking Carmen Sandiego vibes. While pizza is on the menu, customers can also indulge in burgers and sandwiches.
@[deleted]/reddit.com
13. Dr. Bob
Generic brands like Great Value, Big 8, and many others are typically known for their budget-friendly prices. These names usually have enough distinctiveness from the originals to be recognizable on their own, yet they maintain a close resemblance to their counterparts for easy comparison. "Dr. Bob," a play on the Dr. Pepper brand, falls into this category, even if it lacks a bit in creativity. Interestingly, Dr. Bob is not the sole soda brand that adopts the "Dr." in its title. Are you familiar with any others?
@darkclaydol/reddit.com
14. HFC
Halal Fried Chicken (HFC) is a family-oriented restaurant located in Ontario, Canada, renowned for its fried chicken much like KFC. As per its website, it doesn't offer just any chicken but proudly serves "100% Halal hand-slaughtered mind-blowing fried chicken."
@ItzGqlaxy_/reddit.com
15. Duffin Dagels
Spain boasts its rendition of Dunkin' Donuts with Duffin Dagels, featuring a nearly identical logo and a comparable menu. However, it appears that Duffin might outshine Dunkin' in terms of imaginative doughnuts and lavish coffee offerings. While Dunkin' presents seasonal treats, such as the Easter doughnut adorned with a Peeps marshmallow, the allure of Duffin Dagels' Cookie Monster treats and an array of candy toppings is hard to resist.
@Boldir_The_Wise/reddit.com
16. Five Lads
It seems that the street food and relaxed restaurant ambiance of Five Guys has found a fan across the pond. London's Five Lads eatery is dedicated to delectable burgers, with a distinctive logo and a featured menu item – Peri-Peri chicken.
@CLisani/reddit.com
17. Specialman
Yet another knockoff! An identical but cheaper version of the well-known Superman. It also possesses super strength, X-ray vision, the ability to fly, and sports the same belt and the letter S on the chest. However, this replica is called Specailman. If the creators had somehow altered their superhero rather than copying a well-known brand, they might have had a better chance at popularity, but instead, we have a simple cheap imitation.
@Jakzter/reddit.com
18. Game Child
While not technically the pioneer of portable gaming systems, Nintendo's Game Boy undeniably marked the first significant triumph in the market. Sales soared, and gaming enthusiasts eagerly embraced the opportunity to play their favorite titles on the go. Given its widespread popularity, it was only a matter of time before someone attempted to replicate the concept. Introducing the "Game Child," a near-identical model to the original Game Boy, capable of deceiving a parent unfamiliar with handheld game consoles. The primary distinction lay in the Game Child's limitation, as it didn't support separately sold cartridges. Instead, users were confined to a single built-in game (out of six options) per Game Child, with the game's name specified on the box.
@steamed101/reddit.com
19. Creme Betweens
Introduced over a century ago, Oreo has evolved into the best-selling cookie brand in the United States. The iconic combination of two chocolate wafers separated by a creamy filling has earned a dedicated fan base globally Later, a replica of the famous cookies emerged under the name Creme Betweens, which also gained popularity in the American market. Ironically, this imitation finds some justification considering that Oreos themselves were inspired by the preceding Hydrox cookies. It seems that revenge, in this case, is best served with a glass of milk.
@dellakaysigler/reddit.com
20. Michael Alone
This fast-food establishment unmistakably employs the original McDonald's logo, albeit inverted. The name Michael Alone leaves room for speculation, and a theory proposed by a Redditor suggests a connection to the classic 1990s movie Home Alone.
@J_coolstar/reddit.com
21. McTorta’s
Two McTorta establishments have caught our attention. As per Yelp, a McTorta in Los Angeles is presently shuttered, employing the iconic red and yellow logo colors reminiscent of McDonald's from years ago. The other McTorta appears to be less appealing, with a blue building showcasing the knock-off logo and an image of a man with a green hat holding a burger.
@[deleted]/reddit.com
22. Benign Girl
Widely embraced globally, Barbie has been a fundamental part of children's playthings since the early 1960s. An intriguing twist on Barbie comes from a Taiwanese brand named "Benign Girl." Deciphering the creators' intentions behind the name is challenging, but it appears to involve a potential mistranslation, as both names share the initial letter B. Is it safe to say they're essentially the same thing?
@AlpineEsel/reddit.com
23. Robert Cop
For those who came of age in the 1980s, Robocop is undoubtedly a memorable figure. Part man, part machine, and all cop, this movie gave rise to numerous catchphrases, toys, and even several sequels. A few years back, a collection of "Robert Cop" action figures surfaced on the shelves of Chinese department stores, displaying an uncanny resemblance to the authentic titular police officer. The similarity is so striking that a side-by-side comparison would reveal minimal to no differences in appearance, except for the tagline. Robert Cop is hailed as "The Furniture of Law Enforcement"!
@Gewwi/reddit.com
24. MaDonal
Situated in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, this replica of McDonald's is quite evident in its similarities to the more renowned American counterpart. Before establishing MaDonal, the restaurant owner, Suleiman Qassab, was a refugee in Vienna, Austria, where he worked as a cook at McDonald’s. Initially attempting to open an official McDonald’s restaurant, Qassab was denied, prompting him to create his unique rendition. While you might not find a Big Mac at MaDonal, a Big Mack is certainly on the menu. Close enough.
@Thick_Bluebird_4751/reddit.com
25. Star Box Coffee
Located in North London, this petite coffee kiosk may have a name that sounds similar to Starbucks, but it deviates significantly from the coffee giant's logo. Despite this, Starbucks pursued legal action against the smaller establishment, urging Star Box to alter its name to "protect brand identity." However, it appears that Star Box is just one among many businesses adopting the Starbucks color schemes, fonts, and logo design without much concern.
@Batmate57/reddit.com
26. Panburger Partner
Have you ever found yourself at the supermarket intending to purchase a specific brand of product, only to inadvertently grab the generic one instead? It seems that the creators of Panburger Partner may have capitalized on such occurrences when developing this product. Serving as a counterpart to the Betty Crocker-branded "Hamburger Helper," this beef noodle mix leaves little room for imagination regarding its inspiration. From a box with a similar color scheme to nearly identical images on the front, there's no denying their emulation.
@Calcaware/reddit.com
27. KLG
This KFC imitation, originating in Taiwan and expanding to South Korea, China, and South Africa, as indicated on KLG's Facebook page, aims to evoke nostalgic moments with family and friends through every bite of their fried chicken. Reviews suggest that the fast-food replica is holding its own, with a rating of 3.5 out of 5 – not perfect, but not too shabby either.
@POGO_BOY38/reddit.com
28. Dominics
The brand Dominic is likely inspired by the well-known Domino's Pizza brand. According to visitors who share their experiences on social media after visiting the Dominic network, they serve very tasty food, ranging from pizza to soups and breakfasts.
@[deleted]/reddit.com
29. Kat Kot
When it comes to knock-offs, two scenarios unfold: either the imitations manage to deceive and believe they match the original, or they are so poorly executed that they become an internet sensation. Enter Kat Kot, a brand crafted with such lackluster quality that it borders on the comical. At a cursory glance, it might resemble a Kit Kat bar, but upon closer inspection, it's unmistakably a KAT KOT! The distinguishing factor lies in the wording on the bars, and while it may attempt to replicate the iconic slogan, it falls far short of being the Nestle treat.
@uwu-d-daddy-owo-what/reddit.com
30. Dippin Donuts
This Dunkin’ Donuts doppelganger isn't a global phenomenon; rather, it appears to be confined to a handful of towns in Massachusetts. Sporting Dunkin’ Donuts' distinctive bright orange logo, Dippin replicates the coffee giant's aesthetic. Yelp reviews suggest that Dippin Donuts offers beloved doughnuts enjoyed by the local community. Alongside coffee and freshly made doughnuts, the establishment also features sandwiches as part of its all-day breakfast menu.
@UrLilBrudder/reddit.com
31. Two Guys Burgers
This imitation fast-food establishment opted for two guys instead of three, resembling the Five Guys concept. Unlike Five Lads, this restaurant in New South Wales has distinct branding. Two Guys Burgers has garnered positive reviews on its Facebook page, boasting a rating of 4.6 out of 5.
@sauceismygame/reddit.com
32. Nut Master
Why settle for being a Nutella slave when you can proudly declare yourself a Nut Master? Another company that has created an alternative to a well-known brand. It tastes very similar to Nutella but is more affordable.
@SefiBuberman/reddit.com
33. Whats App perfume
How to grab attention for your product and make quick money? Of course, borrow the logo of a well-known company. However, there is always a risk that the company with the patented trademark will take legal action, even if the services or goods are significantly different. Therefore, this can be done only at your peril and risk.
@smol_boi-_-/reddit.com
34. Hair & Scalp
Off-brand Hair & Scalp products are alternative options to well-known and established hair care brands. These products, often produced by lesser-known or generic manufacturers, aim to offer similar benefits to popular brands at a more affordable price point. While they may not have the same recognition or marketing as their branded counterparts, some off-brand Hair & Scalp products gain popularity for providing effective solutions for various hair and scalp concerns.
@unoriginal_format/reddit.com
35. Fruit Rings
Off-brand Fruit Rings is a replication of the well-known Kellogg's Froot Loops cereal. Both visually and in taste, these two cereals are very similar to each other. Theoretically, one could even compare the packaging and find differences. However, without delving into the names, you can automatically choose either of these packages – the quality will not disappoint. But if you are a fan of one of the brands, we suggest being careful when making your choice.
@FireyPikachu/reddit.com
36. 7-Twelve
The Chinese chain of mini-marts, 7-Twelve, is a replica of the American 7-Eleven. Even the color palette of the logo is precisely the same. Should you find yourself in China, you can explore the shops and identify the distinctions on your own.
@Top 15 Hilarious Knock Off Food Brands/BabbleTop/YouTube.com
37. Jay’s Chips
Jay's Chips has been in the market since 1932 and is particularly popular in South America. However, most people are familiar with the well-known brand Lay's Chips, and when they encounter Jay's, they consider it a plagiarism. In reality, it's the other way around. Lay's Chips only appeared five years later, specifically in 1937. Thanks to successful marketing strategies, Lay's became more popular than its competitor.
@UltraDoesMC/reddit.com
38. OFC
OFC is a Chinese fast-food restaurant with a reference to the well-known KFC. It was created by three teenagers from Beijing, and the establishment's abbreviation stands for Obama Fried Chicken. The logo even featured a depiction of the former American president. The business owners were worried that the former U.S. leader would sue them, but the blow came from a different direction. KFC executives regarded OFC as a plagiarism of their brand and filed a lawsuit against their Beijing competitor. As a result, the representatives of OFC changed the name of their restaurant to UFO.
@DoubleExternal/reddit.com
39. H&H
H&H copied the M&M's brand. Everything looks similar - the taste, the logo, and even the name echo. However, there is one significant difference: the characters on H&H's packaging have large white teeth, whereas their competitors do not. The company representatives consider this feature their mascot.
@Top 15 Hilarious Knock Off Food Brands/BabbleTop/YouTube.com
40. Sunny Day
Sunny Day features a logo and color scheme that are quite reminiscent. In reality, it bears a striking resemblance to Subway. According to posters, Sunny Day seems to specialize in sandwiches. Although the fast-food establishment may not provide $5-foot-long subs like the original chain, it's acceptable because their sandwich posters are quite appetizing.
@Top 15 Hilarious Knock Off Food Brands/BabbleTop/YouTube.com
41. Scandinavian Swimmers
Scandinavian Swimmers are jelly candies similar to the brand Swedish Fish. They are also made from natural ingredients and include fruit and flower extracts in their composition. The only difference between them lies in the shape of the jelly candies themselves. Scandinavian Swimmers have various unique shapes, while their competitors do not bother with this aspect.
@tjsteiner/reddit.com
42. Orio green pies
Unsweetened plagiarism of Oreo - Orio green pies. Very similar logo, but a completely different product. Buyers might think it's the same brand that just produces a different item. And thanks to this, they will buy it. Perhaps that's exactly what the owners of Orio are counting on.
@Jtoons101/reddit.com
43. Mike
Mike is an original replica of the American sportswear and footwear company Nike. The owners didn't hesitate to change not only the first letter of their brand but also added a touch to the iconic checkmark – an additional horn that slightly modifies the logo presentation. It's unknown how quality this product is, but it's budget-friendly.
@Ayzem/reddit.com
44. Borio
Borio Cookies draw inspiration from the famous Oreo cookies. However, Borio cookies feature ingredients like peanut butter, oats, brown sugar, and powdered sugar. With a higher fat content than Oreo cookies, they are less crispy but boast a richer flavor. These cookies make an excellent snack for both kids and adults, pairing well with coffee or tea. Moreover, they can be a fantastic addition to your dessert recipe collection, allowing you to create delightful doughnuts, biscuit cookies, and cannolis.
@Replicated/reddit.com
45. Could it Be Better?
"I Can't Believe It's Not Butter” is a widely utilized spread that has gained significant prominence in the culinary industry. However, what happens when attempting to imitate a well-known brand? Well, the outcome may not meet your expectations. "Could It Be Butter?" is a case in point. The product label indicates it as a Spreadable Refined Vegetable Oil Spread with Real Flavor. If that weren't sufficient, user reviews on Amazon mention that the butter is flavorless and leaves an oily residue in pans.
@[deleted]/reddit.com
46. Honey Nut Scooters
Regrettably, Honey Nut Scooters is a counterfeit cereal brand unrelated to scooters or honey, but rather closely mimicking Honey Nut Cheerios, another variant within the same line of cereals. Cheerios, introduced by General Mills in 1979, is undoubtedly the more widely recognized flavor. Similar to many knock-off products, Honey Nut Scooters replicate the brand name, logo design, and color scheme. Unfortunately, its flavor falls short of matching the original.
@181memestar/reddit.com
47. Moon Mist
Mountain Dew, a carbonated soft drink introduced in 1940, has a long history. Despite its enduring presence, there have been attempts to replicate the product with a unique twist. Moon Mist is one such knock-off, closely resembling Mountain Dew. Its ingredients include carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, citric acid, and a natural flavor extract.
@[deleted]/reddit.com
48. Capri-Sonne
While online searches yield limited results, numerous individuals remember buying the apparent knock-off in stores during their childhood. Capri-Sonne products appear to be unavailable in retail stores nowadays. While a Capri-Sonne Facebook page appears in the results, the product seems to be specific to Nigeria. In Germany, Capri-Sun is the official product, owned by Rudolf Wild Ltd. Regardless of whether it's a knockoff or not, it's still unusual to observe.
@ATownAndrew/reddit.com
49. Dave
Dave, this off-brand, is remarkably close to being considered a true "name" brand. Dove might need to consult with their lawyers, as it seems evident that Dave has replicated their trademarked beauty cream bar. It's disheartening to witness major name-brand companies exploiting lesser-known brands like Dave. It's also worth noting that the original is significantly higher in quality than the copy and better take care of the skin than its replica.
@Athomastts/reddit.com
50. Burger Friends
The restaurant owner of Burger Friends, inspired by Burger King's logo, decided to establish his fast-food burger joint. Opting for the name Burger Friends, the goal was to create a welcoming atmosphere, making customers feel like they were part of the owner's family. Additionally, two golden arches representing McDonald’s were incorporated, as the owner believed that many international fast-food chains had too many replicas of their original designs.
@The Weirdest Knock Off Brands/BossDT/YouTube.com