The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has welcomed news from the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) that funding will continue for the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU), recognising the IPO’s ongoing commitment to tackling intellectual property crime and protecting consumers.
The announcement confirms that the specialist City of London Police unit will continue to receive funding for a further three years. The IGA believes the IPO’s continued support for this work is vital in disrupting criminal networks selling counterfeit goods and protecting legitimate businesses across a range of sectors, including automotive.
For independent garages, the issue of counterfeit and unverified vehicle parts remains a growing concern. Such components can present serious safety risks to motorists and create challenges for responsible repairers committed to maintaining the highest standards.
The IGA has worked with the IPO over a number of years to raise awareness of counterfeit vehicle parts and those sourced outside recognised supply chains, highlighting the dangers they pose to both garages and consumers.
Jonathan Douglass, Director of the Independent Garage Association, said, ‘We welcome the Intellectual Property Office’s continued commitment to supporting the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit and the crucial work it undertakes. Counterfeit and unapproved vehicle parts pose a genuine risk to motorists and create challenges for independent garages that are prioritising safety and quality.
‘The IPO’s leadership in tackling intellectual property crime and supporting enforcement activity is essential in protecting consumers and legitimate businesses. It also helps address the growing issue of customer-supplied parts, which too often originate from unknown sources.’
The IGA will continue working with the IPO to raise awareness of the risks associated with counterfeit parts or parts of unknown provenance, while encouraging motorists to use trusted garages and high-quality, traceable components.
