UK markets join forces on refreshed anti-fakes campaign

A campaign to stop the trading of counterfeit goods at physical markets across the UK has been re-launched to ensure businesses and customers are protected from harm.

Around 500 markets are taking part in the reinvigorated Real Deal campaign, first launched in 2009, according to Manchester City Council. Three of the city's biggest markets -  Gorton Market, Longsight Market and the Sunday Market at New Smithfield Market – are involved in the re-launch.

It also aims to tackle the funding of terrorism in the UK from the sale of fake goods and reassure market shoppers the products they purchase are safe and ethical. 

"Back in 2009, Manchester City Council was the first local authority to adopt the Real Deal Charter and it is wonderful to see that fifteen-year commitment is still going strong today," commented Real Deal campaign manager Patricia Lennon.

"All credit to the markets team and their colleagues in trading standards who have worked hard to maintain the Real Deal ethos of fake-free markets," she added. "Their joint efforts will ensure that consumers are protected from untested, poor quality, potentially unsafe counterfeits and that law-abiding traders can build their businesses on a level playing field at the city’s markets."