The American Apparel & Footwear
Association (AAFA), Arlington, Va., has started a Brand Protection Council to help protect US
brands from counterfeit products — which cost US companies about $250 billion each year, according
to estimates from the US Chamber of Commerce. The council is composed of legal, brand enforcement
and marketing representatives of US companies.
“America’s branded apparel and footwear industry is under siege by fake products
masquerading as authentic and valuable brands,” said Kevin M. Burke, president and CEO, AAFA. “Our
member companies do not intend to stand by while the integrity of their products is destroyed.”<
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January/February 2006
