A well-known coffee shop in Karachi is facing legal proceedings after being accused of copying the branding of a Thailand-based international café chain. A consumer court has issued a notice to the coffee shop, located in DHA Phase VIII, following a complaint that it unlawfully used the name, logo, and overall design of Mondo Espresso & Tea Bar, a café brand based in Phuket. The management of the Karachi-based outlet, Mondo Coffee Bar, has been summoned to appear before the court on October 31 to address the allegations.
The complaint was filed under the Sindh Consumer Protection Act, 2015, by Syed Muhammad Ali Jafri through his legal representative, Abdul Ahad Khan. It claims the café misled customers into believing it was affiliated with the Thai brand by using nearly identical branding elements on its coffee cups, takeaway packaging, and promotional materials. Jafri stated he visited the café in May after seeing it advertised as part of the international chain, only to later discover there was no official connection between the two businesses. The Thailand-based brand also confirmed via Instagram that it has no association with the Karachi outlet.
The legal team representing the complainant argues that the use of similar branding constitutes deceptive marketing practices and violates key provisions of consumer protection law, specifically Sections 13 and 21. The case highlights concerns about intellectual property misuse and consumer deception in the local food and beverage industry. Seeking damages of Rs. 5 million, the complainant cites both financial harm and emotional distress resulting from the misleading representation.
Following an initial review of the complaint, the Consumer Court (South) has ordered the café to submit a formal response along with supporting documentation by the end of the month, ahead of a scheduled hearing. The case will be examined further for potential violations and legal consequences.