ANTI-COUNTERFEITING SERVICES FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS

A Proactive Approach to Brand Protection

In today’s marketplace, counterfeiting affects all consumer products and creates enormous liability, as well as health and safety issues for manufacturers and retailers. The estimated value of counterfeit product in the global consumer marketplace ranges from $500 - $600 billion USD, at the low-end, to $1 trillion USD, at the high-end, making it probably the most profitable illegal activity worldwide. While enforcement efforts primarily focus on the end-user and final delivery, measures taken at the manufacturing level can significantly help deter counterfeiting. Conversely, a lack of control measures can encourage and support the efforts of counterfeiters.

Counterfeiting takes place through various means and forms, including theft and unauthorized manufacturing. Specific methods can vary by product. For example, in the apparel industry, trim is known as the “currency of counterfeiting” that allows counterfeiters to add authentic detail to unauthorized product and consequently requires vigilant monitoring of inventories and usage. Anti-counterfeiting solutions need to be customized to your particular product type. However, a number of best practices apply to all product types and should be included in your anti-counterfeiting program. These include:
• Working with trusted suppliers and partners
• Verifying raw material and components for legitimacy
• Monitoring and inspecting shipments of goods to confirm quantity and authenticity
• Controlling production waste and the disposal of damaged and unusable goods
• Establishing procedures for exit and wind-down operations

What are the key benefits?

• Deterring counterfeiting activities throughout your supply chain
• Maintaining brand image and reputation through authentic products in the marketplace
• Helping to reduce the risk of financial loss, liability and safety issues associated with counterfeit products