STEVENS MARKETS LTD
Counterfeit Goods Act
(Rules for Market Traders)
This document sets out the rules for all traders operating at our markets. It is designed to protect the public, genuine businesses, and the reputation of our market by preventing the sale of counterfeit, fake, or unauthorised goods.
1. What This Act Covers
For the purposes of this Act, counterfeit goods include:
- Fake or unauthorised copies of branded products.
- Goods bearing trademarks, logos, or brand names without permission.
- Products misrepresented as being from a particular brand, origin, or quality.
- Goods with altered or removed serial numbers.
- Packaging, labels, or materials intended to help sell counterfeit items.
2. Relevant UK Laws
Selling counterfeit goods is illegal under:
- Trade Marks Act 1994
- Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988
- Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008
Breaches can result in goods being seized, criminal prosecution, civil claims, and permanent exclusion from our markets.
3. Trader Responsibilities
All traders must:
- Only sell genuine, lawful products.
- Keep proof of authenticity for branded goods (e.g., invoices, receipts, brand authorisations) on site.
- Ensure all items comply with UK safety standards (CE/UKCA where required).
- Accurately describe goods and not mislead customers.
- Immediately remove any item we or Trading Standards deem to be counterfeit.
4. Prohibited Goods
You must not sell:
- Counterfeit or fake branded goods.
- Stolen or illegally obtained items.
- Goods that infringe copyright, trademarks, or patents.
- Unsafe, non-compliant, or recalled products.
- Offensive or prohibited items under UK law.
5. Market Operator Powers
We reserve the right to:
- Inspect goods and request proof of authenticity.
- Remove any goods we suspect are counterfeit.
- Suspend or terminate your trading pitch without refund if you breach these rules.
- Share your details with Trading Standards, the police, and brand owners.
6. Consequences of Breach
If you sell counterfeit goods at our market:
- Your goods may be seized.
- Your trading rights at our markets will be revoked permanently.
- You may be reported to Trading Standards and the police.
- You may face legal action, fines, and prosecution.