Counterfeit Products- A Global Problem
When we hear the word “counterfeit”, most of us would think about clothing, handbags, sport shoes and so on. These unauthorized replicas of these real products are indeed prevalent. In fact, counterfeit products are present in almost every market and it is increasingly becoming a global concern. Similarly, manufacturers are facing the same problems in the mechanical component industry, especially bearings.
Counterfeit products are usually produced at low-cost made from low-quality materials, and not tested for product reliability. These products are illegally labelled and marketed as reputable brands, placed in packaging that appears identical to genuine packages used by brand owners.
The Risks of Purchasing Counterfeit Products
With the advancement of technology, counterfeit products are going to continue to rise. With so many available products in the market, it is extremely difficult to identify imitation products and many customers would fall prey to these seemingly genuine offers. Not only would customers purchase the products at the same price as authentic products, it also poses a serious risk damaging the machinery, leading to premature breakdowns, costly production stoppages and injuries to people.
Finding the Right Supplier
Counterfeit products are not easily distinguisable, and this is why selecting the right supplier is paramount. As Asia’s No 1 mechanical component distributor, SLS has been a recognized supplier for many years and a preferred supplier by many customers. Not only does SLS stock original products, our experienced technical staff also offers proper installation and maintenance services officially trained by Brand Manufacturers. SLS has established itself as a trusted brand and always assuring customers of right and highest quality to the products offered.
SLS is the recipient of the certificate by VALE as one of its top ten suppliers
Fighting the Fight
It may be tough to trace the source of counterfeit products, but the fight is not over yet. Of late, SLS has played a vital role in helping SKF, a global leader in bearings and solution in their fight against counterfeit products (Read how SKF destroyed 15 tons of fake bearings). SKF relies and acts on the information provided by SLS to conduct checks on suspected counterfeit products being supplied through alternative channels. SKF would perform verification checks and team up with local authorities to shut down on these bogus channels. There have been instances when raids were conducted on information supplied by SLS.
Prevent Yourself from the Risk of Counterfeit Products
Ethical and integrity is the root of SLS’s business practice. Together with our Brand Manufacturers, we are committed to ensuring that only genuine and high-quality products are provided to our customers. Prevent yourself from taking the risk on buying unauthenticated products; make the right choice and safeguard your investment with SLS.
Join the Movement: Together we can stop fake bearing businesses
World Bearing Association (WBA) is an umbrella organization that has launched a counterfeit awareness campaign with the aim to create more customer awareness of the risks and problems with counterfeits. More information can be found at www.stopfakebearings.com.
Download brand manufacturers app to verify authentication of your bearings:
For further information, please contact us.
