Lancashire County Council’s Trading Standards team has joined forces with officers from Lancashire Constabulary, Preston City Council and market traders to support legitimate businesses and prevent criminals from profiting from fake goods, through the Real Deal initiative.

Through the nationally-recognised initiative, traders sign up to a code of practice and work with partners to identify and report suspicious activity, helping to keep Preston Market a trusted place for shoppers.

Councillor Joshua Roberts, cabinet member for Rural Affairs, Environment and Communities at Lancashire County Council said:

“Shoppers should be able to buy with confidence, knowing the goods they purchase are genuine.

“The Real Deal initiative is a great example of partners working together to protect consumers, support honest traders and prevent criminals from profiting from counterfeit goods.

“The commitment shown by market traders is vital to the scheme’s success, helping to identify suspicious activity and creating an environment where legitimate businesses can thrive.”

Sergeant Tom Rettie from Preston City Centre’s Neighbourhood Policing Team said:

“Counterfeit goods are not a victimless crime. They can put consumers at risk, undermine legitimate businesses and, in some cases, help fund wider criminal activity.

“By working closely with partners as part of this campaign, we are determined to protect customers, support honest traders and put a stop to those who are unscrupulous.”

Councillor Martyn Rawlinson, Cabinet Member for Resources at Preston City Council, said:

“Preston Markets is home to many trusted independent traders who work hard to provide quality products and excellent customer service. By supporting the ‘Real Deal’ initiative, we are reinforcing our commitment to creating a safe, fair and welcoming marketplace where shoppers can buy with confidence.

“This scheme helps protect both consumers and legitimate businesses, ensuring that Preston Markets remains a vibrant destination that supports local enterprises and contributes positively to the city centre economy.

“We are proud to be the first market in Lancashire to sign up to the re-launched initiative and to work alongside our traders, Lancashire County Council’s Trading Standards and Lancashire Police to tackle the sale of counterfeit goods.”

If anyone has any concerns about the sale of counterfeit products, report these to Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Service helpline on 0808 223 1133.