Playboy has accused each of the three companies of infringing on its trademark by making shirts with logos similar to the famous bunny that has become synonymous with the brand.
One of the three companies, Hong Kong-based Pearlboy Group, has also drawn the ire of Playboy because of its name. In Chinese, Pearlboy translates to mean “new playboy.”
Playboy has asked that Pearlboy change its name to something that is not “the same or similar” to Playboy.
According to a BBC report, Playboy is seeking damages in the amount of $68,000 from each company and an apology.
A fourth company, Beijing-based retailer Chen Xiongjun, has been accused of selling the shirts to department stores.
The BBC report also identified a suit against an individual Chinese salesman who allegedly sold the shirts to various retailers.
Representatives for Playboy were not available for comment at time of post.
