Fake goods warning as city prepares for Hull Fair

FAKE: These hoodies on sale at last year’s Hull Fair led to a conviction and fine for their supplier

By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor

Traders and customers are being warned about the risk of fake goods at Hull Fair.

Europe’s largest travelling fair returns to the city for the 731st time on Friday, October 10, and as well as urging people to have fun trading standards officers are warning people not to purchase any fake goods which may be on sale.

The warning comes after the conviction of a Doncaster man for supplying counterfeit White Fox hooded sweatshirts at the fair in 2024.

David James Smith pleaded guilty at Hull Magistrates Court in August to charges under the Trade Marks Act 1994. He was fined £120 and must pay a £48 victim surcharge plus £300 costs.

The knock-off hoodies were being sold on-street for £20 – compared with the £55 retail price of the real thing.

ROLL UP!: Europe’s largest travelling fair returns to Hull next month

Councllor Charles Quinn, portfolio holder for public protection at Hull City Council, said: “While the fine imposed was modest, the conviction sends a clear message that counterfeit goods will not be tolerated.

“Our trading standards team will continue to use every available measure to prevent illegitimate traders from selling counterfeit clothing or other unlawful goods both day-to-day and at Hull Fair.

“Counterfeit goods not only undermine honest businesses, but they can also pose a safety risk to the public, which is particularly concerning for any goods aimed at children. We are committed to ensuring that everyone attending the fair this October can purchase goods in confidence.

“Those selling illicit goods will often go for current trends – as we saw recently with fake Labubu dolls on sale locally. Customers can protect themselves and their families by being vigilant. A price that seems too good to be true probably is, and details like product quality and logos may be visual giveaways.”

He added: “Fakes can seem like a good deal, but they haven’t been subject to the same checks as genuine items and are not worth the risk. They’re likely to be poor quality – clothing may be made of cheap fabric which could be a fire risk, and toys could pose a choking hazard.”

Anyone who suspects they have found counterfeit goods can contact trading standards via the Citizens Advice consumer helpline free on 0808 223 1133.