Too many boutique owners risk their entire business without realizing it — by selling dupes, knockoffs, or unlicensed products. The consequences can be devastating, from confiscated inventory to losing everything they've worked so hard to build.

In this episode of Five Minute Friday, Ashley Alderson shares the truth about trademark infringement and licensing agreements. Drawing from real-life examples in the retail industry, Ashley explains what every boutique owner needs to know to stay protected.

Key takeaways from this episode:

• Why selling dupes is illegal, even if it seems harmless

• Common examples: NFL, Disney, Louis Vuitton, Starbucks, and more

• How licensing agreements work and what to look for as a retailer

• Practical steps to avoid costly legal mistakes

Boutique owners put their heart and soul into building their brands. This episode is a timely reminder of how to protect that investment and avoid mistakes that could shut a business down overnight.

Stay connected with Ashley and The Boutique Hub: Instagram: @ajalderson (Follow Ashley on Instagram) | @theboutiquehub Learn more: Join The Boutique Hub Community