Global authentication body urges World Cup anti-counterfeiting review

Official suppliers to the FIFA World Cup are being urged to review their anti-counterfeiting plans by the International Authentication Association (IAA) following news reports that fake sports gear is swamping South Africa’s streets. Despite efforts to clampdown on counterfeit goods coming mainly from China and other Asian countries, fake jerseys and other merchandise for national teams will be, says the IAA, costing bonafide suppliers millions of dollars in lost revenue this summer. Recently, customs authorities have confiscated over $13 million worth of counterfeit football clothing while last month South African police recently seized more than $2 million worth of South Africa shirts. And despite prosecutions illegal traders are not being deterred when they can get $33 for a counterfeit England or Brazil football shirt on the streets of Johannesburg which may cost only a few cents to produce. IAA chairman Jim Rittenburg said that many top sports brands are being hit hard by counterfeit products or cheap imitations. “Football fans need be careful what they are buying and need to check the quality of garments and details like logos before handing over cash.” Counterfeit merchandise not only impacts economies but hits hard the international market for sales of sports merchandise – and the leading brands, who not only have market share to protect but also global reputations for quality and excellence. The success of authentication technologies and strategies in combating the counterfeiters was shown by the three million plus good seized and the 2,500 IP infringements reported during the FIFA 2006 World Cup in Germany. However, the IAA says that this must be reinforced and many manufacturers and suppliers will certainly need to review their authentication and anti-counterfeiting ahead of the World Cup. “The problem of fake goods at this summer’s World Cup is a big concern,” said Jim Rittenburg. “We are urging all those involved in the fight against counterfeiting, from anti piracy and law enforcement agencies to official suppliers to review their security plans.” "Investment in features and systems that prevent losses will help stem the problem but we also urge those in the supply chain to check their stock, particularly identification tags and other security devices used to confirm the products are genuine. “Anything suspicious should be reported straight away.” ENDS Notes to editors The International Authentication Association is a global organisation set up to lead the fight against counterfeits and represents many of the world’s leading brand owners and suppliers of authentication technologies. For more information about the IAA, authentication and the benefits of being a member visit http://www.internationalauthenticationassociation.org Issued on behalf of the IAA by Mitchell Halton Watson Ltd. For further details contact Andy Bruce on +44 (0) 191 233 1300 or email andy@mhwpr.co.uk