Reds on alert in Asia

Thanks to United’s huge popularity in the Far East, it’s no surprise that club merchandise is big business out here. Unfortunately, it’s not all official merchandise that is being sold on these shores.

Months of preparation have gone into an anti-counterfeiting programme to not only ensure the level of counterfeits available are kept to a minimum, but also to protect the misuse of the club Trade Marks.

United have active legal representatives and investigators in the biggest problem areas in the Far East and action will be taken at all open training sessions and matches during the Reds’ four-game tour. Several teams will patrol the stadiums and surrounding areas before, during and after kick-off with local enforcements officers assisting.

Prior to the team’s arrival in the Far East, raids have been carried out in Korea, Hong Kong and China resulting in the seizure of thousands of pounds worth of fake goods.

The club are urging fans to be on the look out for counterfeit merchandise which are usually of inferior quality and have not been safety tested.

“We would urge supporters to only buy official merchandise from authorised outlets. By following this advice, the buyer can not only help themselves, but help the club as well,” explained a United spokesman. “They can be assured that the profit from their purchase is invested in the future of the club.”

Over the past five years United have seized over £7million worth of fake shirts and souvenirs including hats, scarves, mobile phone accessories, bags and caps to name but just a few. The figures send out a clear message that the club will not tolerate the illegal trade of counterfeit goods.

If you have any concerns about counterfeit merchandise please contact the club’s Trade Mark’s department at trademarks@manutd.co.uk.