‘Counterfeit goods not only undermine honest businesses, but they can also pose a safety risk to the public’
Traders and customers are being warned of the potential risks posed by counterfeit goods that may be on sale at Hull Fair next month. The alert follows a successful prosecution by Hull City Council‘s Trading Standards team of a Doncaster man for selling fake White Fox hooded sweatshirts at the fair in 2024.
David James Smith admitted to charges under the Trade Marks Act 1994, at Hull Magistrates’ Court on August 15. He was ordered to pay a fine of £120, a victim surcharge of £48, and a contribution towards costs of £300.
The imitation hoodies were being hawked on-street for £20 – a stark contrast to the £55 retail price of the genuine article.
Cllr Charles Quinn, portfolio holder for Public Protection at Hull City Council, said: “While the fine imposed was modest, the conviction sends a clear message that counterfeit goods will not be tolerated. Our Trading Standards team will continue to use every available measure to prevent illegitimate traders from selling counterfeit clothing or other unlawful goods both day-to-day and at Hull Fair.
“Counterfeit goods not only undermine honest businesses, but they can also pose a safety risk to the public, which is particularly concerning for any goods aimed at children. We are committed to ensuring that everyone attending the fair this October can purchase goods in confidence.
“Those selling illicit goods will often go for current trends – as we saw recently with fake Labubu dolls on sale locally. Customers can protect themselves and their families by being vigilant. A price that seems too good to be true probably is, and details like product quality and logos may be visual giveaways.
“Fakes can seem like a good deal, but they haven’t been subject to the same checks as genuine items and are not worth the risk. They’re likely to be poor quality – clothing may be made of cheap fabric which could be a fire risk, and toys could pose a choking hazard”.
If you suspect you’ve come across counterfeit goods, you should get in touch with Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice consumer helpline free on 0808 223 1133.
Hull Fair 2025 is set to begin on Friday, October 10 and continue until Saturday, October 18, excluding Sunday.