Operation by Trading Standards
Sandwell Council’s Trading Standards officers – in partnership with West Midlands Police and brand protection officers from WRi Group – have seized a large quantity of counterfeit designer goods from a warehouse in Smethwick. The seizure followed an investigation into the use of TikTok to advertise fake products for sale.
Items recovered included trainers, watches, scarves, perfumes and electronic goods, with an estimated value exceeding £1million.
Brands affected included Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Apple, Canada Goose, Moncler, Rolex, Burberry, Nike and others. Evidence suggests the goods were imported from China and Hong Kong.
Investigations are ongoing to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Trading Standards warn that counterfeit goods are not victimless, often linked to organised crime and exploitation, including child labour. These items also pose significant safety risks.
Councillor Bob Jones, Cabinet Member for Environment and Enforcement said: “The council is committed to working with partner organisations to protect consumers and tackle illegal trading.
“Consumers are urged to avoid buying counterfeit goods, as they are often unsafe, poor quality and not covered by consumer protections. Purchasing such items may also contribute to criminal activity.
“Previous testing has found counterfeit perfumes can contain harmful chemicals, while fake electronics may cause fire hazards, electrical faults and potential hearing damage.”
Advice to consumers:
- Buy only from reputable retailers.
- Be aware of safety risks associated with counterfeit goods.
- Report concerns to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service online or by calling 0808 223 1133.
- Trust your instincts – if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
The seizure in Smethwick took place on Wednesday 13 May.