Dubai Economic Department tackles fraudsters

Numerous shops offering 'Everpower' batteries, which abuse the famous 'Eveready' trademark of global battery maker Energizer, have been raided and the counterfeit products pulled from the shelves.

Paul Scott, head of marketing at Energizer Middle East and Africa, applauded the DED's efforts and said the inferior quality of 'Everpower' batteries makes them a potential health, safety and environmental hazard. He said the campaign against 'Everpower' started early this year and would continue until all supplies were confiscated and destroyed.

"Consumer protection and intellectual property are key concerns of Energizer, 'Eveready' and the Dubai Government. We would like to thank the Commercial Protection Section of Dubai Economic Department for taking action and working to ensure fair business practice."

Scott added: "The sale of these batteries is an unlawful infringement of our trademarks and damaging for our reputation and business, and the business of our authorised distributors. It also deceives consumers; 'Everpower' batteries are vastly inferior to authentic 'Eveready' batteries."

Dubai and UAE authorities have cracked down on trademark fraudsters in recent years and bolstered intellectual property protection. Manufacturers have also joined forces to combat the fake goods market, which costs legitimate business in the region millions of dollars each year.

The Automotive Brand Protection Coalition Middle East, ACME, is a case in point, formed by concerned car manufacturers in 2002 to address the problem of fake auto parts.

Dubai is often used as a stopover for counterfeit products making their way to other GCC markets. Energizer is also tackling the sale of 'Everpower' batteries in Saudi Arabia.