In the past ten years we have seen arguably the greatest changes and improvements to global manufacturing. This has come forth in part by more efficient communication (email and web) as well as equipment and land capital investment and improvement, particularly in China. Goods are now made with faster response rate to the market, better quality, and in most cases less expensive. Along with the improvements, there has been an explosion of counterfeiting that has plagued the global retail market.
In this article I attempt to make the case that counterfeiting is not only an illegal practice but a very dangerous one that poses a risk not only for the consumer, but a potential risk for the nation as well. Sound too outrageous? I think not.
Risk to the consumer
Most major retailers and reputable companies hold a high standard quality control on their products. In the US a recall will greatly affect reputation and ultimately sales. CTL (consumer testing laboratories) tests products that come into the US for many toxins that are poisonous such as lead and formaldehyde. These tests are quite costly and require a strong product and quality management to execute efficiently. Most counterfeit goods are made with inferior goods, in some cases with left offer stock material that have failed these protocols. Yes! Failed meaning toxins have been found in the raw materials. Is the fake pair of brand name jeans worth the rash?
As you may have already guessed. Most of the “bootleggers” are not designers and do not know of the technical requirements that need to be monitored to make sure that seams don’t rip, colors don’t fade when washing, or even that the zippers work. I’ve gone out with some girlfriends with phony coach or Prada handbags and seen them struggle at the bar trying to open the darn zipper… I tell them to carry a wrench with that thing! If your going to buy a bag, at least get a designer inspired handbags it looks just as good and the quality meets standards.
Risk to the nation.
Not only are we in a bad economy, in which all companies are cutting back on R&D, Designs, Purchases, and yes even employees. When you purchase a bootleg bag. Not only will it scream fake when you can’t open the zipper of have a rash on your feet from fake Prada shoes. But you pay the thief who did not pay import taxes or income taxes, but you are eliminating a sale from the design innovator. Multiply this by the number of bootleg sales and companies (that pay taxes and employees) hurt.
In extreme cases, check out this business week article on dangerous fakes. How counterfeit, defective computer components from China are getting into U.S. warplanes and ships
Its time to knock off the knock offs.
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