The December festive season is here and with it comes the thrill of shopping from foodstuff to the latest fashion, with consumers eager to stock up for the celebrations.
As Kenyans prepare for Christmas and New Year, malls and online platforms are abuzz with activity but amid this shopping rush is the growing threat of counterfeit and substandard goods that pose risks to both consumers and legitimate businesses.
A counterfeit is a product that imitates the genuine one. Counterfeit products have become a global concern denying manufacturers their rightful earnings.
To help consumers navigate the risks, Kebs, Cofek and the Anti-Counterfeit Agency have shared practical tips for identifying counterfeit and substandard goods:
1. Check the price: Consumers should be wary of very low prices for goods that do not have subsidies. “Don’t be deceived by the price. Remember, cheap is always expensive. If you see anything unusually cheap, think twice, and trust your instincts. The product could be counterfeit,” says Anti-Counterfeit Agency. “Don’t fall victim of buying products because of poor pricing. Consumers should verify the brand they are buying with the manufacturers if need be”.
2. Check the place: Most known trademark owners have defined routes to their markets. They have known distributors, vans, production sites etc. It is important for consumers to purchase from known outlets and avoid new merchants and online sites that may be conduits of counterfeit trade.
3. Check the packaging and labelling: For inconsistencies and errors such as spelling, designs, poor packaging and product spillovers or dirty containers. These are indicators of nonconformity to known standards. Consumers should be vigilant to avoid getting duped.
Scrutinise labels, packaging and contents: Look for missing or expired dates on perishable products, broken or non-existent safety seals, false warranty information, or otherwise unusual packaging.
Inspect the packaging and logo placement/colour of the product. Shoppers should also check the Kenya Bureau of Standards marks of quality, dates of manufacture and expiry.
4. Your perception: Most brand owners rely on the much-earned brand loyalty derived from a nostalgic experience by buyers. By being repeat customers, they give manufacturers a competitive advantage a key possession to rational manufacturers. Consumers should trust their sense of smell, touch, and sight in seeing any physical characteristics that is inconsistent with their experience.
5. Insist on secure transactions: Make sure your payments are submitted via websites if online; beginning with the https:// (the “s” stands for secure) and look for a lock symbol at the bottom of your browser.
6. Be careful purchasing medicine online: Over 96 percent of online pharmacies do not meet safety or legal standards. You are advised to look out for genuine and verified online suppliers of medicines and medical products.
7. Be vigilant when buying from abroad: When shopping on international websites, look for trusted vendors that use identifiable privacy security safeguards and have reasonable return policies. Trust your gut instincts and don’t purchase items from a website or buyer if you are uncomfortable with the security and credibility of the transaction.
8. Weight: Check the weight of the product, it may be lightweight, smell of chemicals, or have chipped paint.
9. Research the reputation of the seller and read customer comments: If you have any questions, call or contact the brand’s customer service team.
10. Watch for missing charges: Criminals trafficking in counterfeit goods often do not report their sales to financial authorities-a difference you may notice in the final price.
11. Buy from known genuine distributors and e-distribution lines: It is also important to keep a receipt of the goods one buys to facilitate easy follow-up on the matter in case of complaints.
According to the Anti-Counterfeit Agency, consumers often realise they’ve purchased counterfeit goods when they notice differences in taste, consistency, or appearance. The agency urges the public to report suspicious products to protect others.
Consumers are urged to be aware of products sold outside the usual distribution channels (place), price undercutting, packaging and personal experience with a product.
Cofek, Kebs, DCI, the anti-counterfeit agency and other bodies have urged the public to report suspicious products in the market to protect unsuspecting consumers.
