Is China the Only Copier on the Block?

As a follow up to my recent post on “Why does China copy designs?”, and enlighten reader has pointed out to me that China is not the only one copying “following” and improving in the design world. Reputable European brands seem to do the same as well. Check it out after the jump.
Thanks to Ed. C for the heads up and links.

Ed. C laments:
1. Marantz player and Grundig Ovation player looks exactly the same!!
2. Marantz player remote control looks exactly the same remote that Loewe has!!
So who got it first?

Here are the graphics and links for you to judge for yourselves!
First we have the unique Loewe Remote.


Next we have the sleek Marantz player





Finally we study the Grundig Ovation player


All in all, it’s interesting would you not say? Well in the consumer electronics industry it is pretty common for re-badging or re-branding of similar looking products. Do take a look at my previous re-badging article on Microsoft Zune, and other mp3 players as another example. So therefore it is likely Marantz and Grundig either OEM from each other or from another common source. I don’t blame them as the CE industry is ruthless and ultra-competitive. Similar products, copies all come out so quickly that it is difficult to justify spending the R&D dollars as ROI periods are extremely short. Anyways I suppose there is a fine line between copying/following and being inspired by another design or designer.
So what are we as designers are suppose to do these days? Let’s discuss?