13 March 2015
A short briefing note here on the brand-related implications of standardised (plain) packaging for tobacco products, provided by the Anti-Counterfeiting Group and British Brands Group which was sent in advance of the Deferred Division on the Draft Standardised Packaging of Tobacco Products Regulations 2015.
The British Brands Group does not take a position for or against standardised packaging but urges that any policy that reduces significantly the many benefits of branding is based on strong evidence and focused on achieving the stated goals.
We do not believe the evidence in this case meets this threshold. There are risks that consumption will not reduce and that young people will not be inhibited from taking up smoking. Meanwhile we see a real threat of illegal products increasing, whether imported or counterfeit products. This seems to be the Australian experience.
ACG represents more than 3,000 brands affected by this influx of fakes into the UK and delivers an international network of information, advice and contacts on all aspects of IP protection. Working with Government and law enforcement agencies since 1980, ACG is focused on providing an effective and sustained response to counterfeiting.
Membership with the ACG is the best way to work with government and enforcement bodies to protect your brand. Our Roadshows and training days help you reach out to police, trading standards and border force officers and tell them about your genuine products.