03 March 2008

Substitute suds scam hits Omo


A FATHER and son will face court in Sydney today, charged with importing and selling tonnes of counterfeit Omo washing powder.

The registered owner of Omo, Unilever Australia, referred the matter to Australian Federal Police after discovering retailers in Sydney were selling 9kg buckets of Omo marked ``Made in Indonesia'' for $25.

The genuine product sells for between $35 and $40 and is made in New Zealand.

Further investigation found three companies were involved in the importation and sale of the alleged counterfeit washing powder originating from China.

It will be alleged that between March 2006 and August 2007 about 185 tonnes of counterfeit product - washing powder and buckets - were imported into Australia.

Two men, aged 53 and 32 were charged on summons with selling goods with a falsely applied trade mark.

If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of two years jail and/or a fine up to $55,000.

Robyn Ironside, news.com.au February 11, 2008

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