Anti-counterfeit groups join forces

The International Authentication Association (IAA) has been absorbed into the International Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition (IACC) in a move that combines two of the largest anti-counterfeiting bodies.

The two organizations have agreed to combine their efforts with IAA members transferring their membership and remaining assets to the IACC, they said in a statement. David Howard, the IAA chairman, said the move "strengthens the fight against counterfeit activities on all fronts."

It is the intention of both organizations to bring together the knowledge of the IAA as an industry forum for product protection technologies and processes, and the strength and history of the IACC as an international industry forum and catalyst for legal and enforcement activities related to fighting counterfeit and illegal diversion. 

"We welcome the new IAA members and all of the collective experience that they bring to the IACC," said Bob Barchiesi, IACC's president.