Fake goods epidemic revealed by Trading Standards

Hundreds of Christmas presents have been seized by Rochdale Trading Standards after criminals brought a spate of fake goods to town.

Figures have revealed that more than 18,000 items of counterfeit merchandise have been discovered in the borough in the past year, including fake big-brand clothing, footwear, handbags, perfume and jewellery.

Cigarettes, tobacco and vodka have also been taken off the black market.

Andy Glover, Rochdale’s Chief Trading Standards Officer, said: “Counterfeit goods are alluring around this time of year but whilst they are generally cheaper than the real thing, these cheap imitations are normally of poor quality.

“People must realise that jobs are being lost through this invidious crime. Our honest, local retailers and manufacturers must be protected.”

The UK counterfeit industry is estimated to be valued at over £10 billion and illegal retailers could face up to 10 years imprisonment or hefty fines.

There have been several high profile prosecutions of offenders over the past few months including one in September when a Rochdale man narrowly escaped jail after he was found selling fake designer socks and underwear on Rochdale Market.

He was sentenced to 100 hours unpaid work and ordered to pay costs of £1,500.

The majority of the counterfeit goods seized in the borough are de-branded and re-distributed by various charities to third world countries or disaster areas.

To report counterfeit goods please call Rochdale Trading Standards Service (via Consumer Direct) on 08454 040506.