Counterfeit merchandise and public appeal in a recession?

[Alan Mendelson]

I'm curious about this: are you more likely to willingly buy a counterfeit item such as a handbag or shoes during hard economic times than during good economic times?

For example, would you consider buying a counterfeit Gucci handbag during a recession because you couldn't afford the real thing-- but you still want the look?

Now, please understand that I am talking about counterfeits and not knock-offs or look-alikes of popular styles. A counterfeit Gucci bag, for example, would use the trademarked labels and designs in an attempt to make a copy of the legitimate bag. On the other hand a knock-off or a look-alike would not use trademarked symbols or designs but while the knockoffs might similar in color or size or function or design, they would be obviously different.

An example of a knockoff is a button-down shirt with the logo of a cowboy riding a bull which would compete with a button-down shirt with a polo player on a horse.

[lindsaypowell]

What I can say is that counterfeit merchandising is a criminal market that nets billions a year globally. Well, there is nothing new about it. Meanwhile, with the world's eyes on London this summer, UK experts are urging tourists to beware of supporting criminal conduct by purchasing knock-off items. Additionally, hundreds have been arrested for pushing bogus products. Learn more.

[Alan Mendelson]

Well, lindsaypowell thanks for the post but we've already had enough spam for the payday loan company in your link.

But you had me fooled. I thought your post was a good one... until the hidden link.

Tsk Tsk.