Does it fit your profile?

Counterfeit is defined as products being misrepresented in their origins or quality. The production and sale of counterfeit goods is a global, multi-billion-pound issue and one that has serious economic ramifications for governments, businesses, and consumers.

There is evidence that the number of counterfeit and ‘me-too’ copies available on the market is growing. In industries like manufacturing, they are not just an irritation to legitimate original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), they can also be extremely dangerous – with the potential to cause untold damage and jeopardise the safety of individuals.

A point for discussion is when a product states that it 'is compatible with' a recognised brand or product. Just because the same fittings can be used and the product looks the same, it does not necessarily mean the ancillary product will perform to comparable standards or offer the same product assurances as the original.

Many counterfeits are said to be manufactured to an expected standard, but instead, use cheaper and inferior materials that undermine product performance and integrity. This practice side-steps development with rigorous testing policies, often failing to meet key safety criteria. This means that when these substandard products are sent out for integration into larger systems, there is an increased risk of failure and a commercial risk to the system integrator and end customer.

Read the full article in the April issue of DPA