In Rochdale police and trading standards officers have stopped a counterfeit operation after a tip off that top brands were being sold at knock down prices on Facebook. The authorities set up surveillance after the tip, which led them to a storage unit in Castleton. There, they found hundreds of fake goods stamped with brand names including Hollister, Superdry, Adidas and Converse All Star.
Officers estimated the total value of the goods, which included Ugg Boots, Lacoste tracksuits and North Face hoodies, at around £15,000. The Ugg boots, which retail at upwards of £100 per pair, were being sold for £35, while buyers could get their hands on an Adidas tracksuit with a recommended retail price £40 for £25. Perfumes were advertised at £15. Among the shoddy quality goods which were destined to appear under trees this Christmas, were jumpers which had the brand logos screenprinted onto them.
A 24-year-old man from Turfhill has since been arrested on suspicion of offences under the Trade Marks Act 1994 and bailed until 3 December. While on site the team also uncovered a haul of fireworks in a separate unit which they are investigating.
Rochdale Borough Council is now warning consumers looking for a cut price Christmas not to fall for the counterfeit con.
Councillor Jacqui Beswick, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “It’s easy to be tempted by cheap deals, particularly at expensive times of the year like Christmas, but if you buy counterfeit, you might find that your jumper has fallen apart before your tree comes down or that your new perfume has left you sporting a nasty rash at the New Year bash.
“People also need to remember that the proceeds of these operations also often fund organised crime. I doubt many could sleep soundly this Christmas knowing that.”
Anyone who suspects counterfeiting is advised to phone the Citizens Advice Consumer helpline on 08454 04 05 06.
Tips on avoiding fakes when buying presents this year:
Be suspicious about bargains. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is!
Find out if you have any guarantees or after-sales service
Examine the quality of the goods
Check labels and packaging for misspellings and poor logos take extra care at car boot sales, pubs and computer fairs, or in other situations where it may be more difficult to get in touch with the trader after the purchase.
You should also guard against buying fakes on the Internet, especially if the website is based in another country.
