Supported by NABMA
Real Deal WhatsApp Group for Markets
To improve communication around counterfeit product risks, a new Real Deal WhatsApp group is being launched. Market operators can:
- Ask questions about suspected counterfeit goods
- Share alerts and images for brand verification
- Receive fast, informal guidance
To request to join, complete the short form overleaf.
Who is the group for?
NABMA members who are Real Deal Markets, or Markets who wish to work towards Real Deal Status.
What is the purpose of the group?
If market operators have concerns that products displayed for sale are fake, they can take photos of the products and share within the WhatsApp Group. A National Markets Group (NMG) representative will seek to relay to the relevant brand owner to review and confirm whether the items are genuine or counterfeit. The group will also be used to send other useful information and reminders about illicit trade.
*No personal details of traders to be shared via this WhatsApp group.
Who is in the Group?
Matthew Knowles on behalf of NMG and the Anti-Counterfeiting Group (ACG).
Market Operator employees responsible for compliance.
*If you volunteer to join the group, please be advised that your number and messages can be viewed by other members of the group.
What do I do if the goods are confirmed to be counterfeit?
It is a criminal offence to sell or display for sale counterfeit goods. You should follow your own processes and report the trader details to your local trading standards authority: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/get-more-help/report-to-trading-standards/
Recommendations for information being sent:
- Please ensure that the photos are clear, not blurry, taken in good light / use flash.
- Take photographs of the item in full plus the labels / swing tags / logos.
- Take photographs of the packaging the item comes in.
- For footwear take a photo of the item front / side / sole / logo and if there are any labels take a photo of them – usually found on the tongue of the shoe.
- Photograph any information / invoices provided as proof of authenticity – ensure that the name / address and date of who and when the items were provided. Ensure the invoice is clearly seen in the photos.
- Price that the trader is selling the item for.
What is the response time?
This will vary depending on the responsiveness of the brand owner and the time taken to identify the relevant brand owner or third-party representative.
What are the Group Rules?
- This group is for reporting only – plus Real Deal and NABMA messages and updates.
- No offensive language, jokes, memes, chain messages, or other images will be shared.
- If notifications get distracting, feel free to mute the group.
- Do not share screenshots or forward messages from this group without permission.
Apply to join the Real Deal WhatsApp Group
Or email patricia.lennon@realdealmarkets.co.uk for more information