“How do you manage the
IP counterfeiting challenge
in North America?”
“Develop a systematic,
multi-pronged approach.”
The global challenge presented by counterfeiting is often associated with emerging markets
thousands of miles away from the United States. Yet we face this challenge every day in our
own backyard, and companies must develop a systematic approach to meeting the challenge.
PUMA North America is a wholly owned subsidiary of PUMA AG Rudolf Dassler Sport, a
leading global sportlifestyle company and designer of footwear, apparel, and accessories.
Our efforts at the subsidiary level are largely aimed at the North American market, but always
as an aspect of our global brand protection strategy.
In North America, we have developed a multi-pronged approach to the crime of counterfeiting.
• We establish a direct relationship with law enforcement personnel at the local, state and
national levels. Law enforcement officials have my personal contact information and are
encouraged to be in touch at the first sign of counterfeit goods.
• We emphasize training of our own personnel, law enforcement personnel and trade
association representatives so that they can recognize and report quickly upon the
existence of counterfeit goods.
• With the help of intellectual property associations and outside firms, we work hard at
understanding the changing legal landscape.
• We work with accomplished private investigators who are typically former law
enforcement officers.
• We cooperate enthusiastically with the prosecutorial community.
• We devote human resources to policing the Internet in search of likely counterfeit items.
• We develop cooperative relationships with customs personnel in the United States
Peter P. Mastrostefano
Vice President and General Counsel
PUMA North America, Inc.
Westford, Massachusetts
and Canada.
The importance of meeting the counterfeiting challenge cannot be overstated. By doing so,
we not only prevent harm to our own enterprise, but also we shine a light on the underground
counterfeiting community that characteristically fails to adhere to environmental, consumer
protection, human rights, child labor and other applicable laws.
In our business, if it’s not authentic, it’s just a copycat.
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