Unilever Uncovers Counterfeit Fragrance Operation in Costa Rica

Unilever Cosmetics International (UCI) announced today that on Dec. 11, 2001 the State Prosecutor’s Office in San Jose seized a counterfeit factory which was illegally manufacturing fragrance products relating to the prestige trademarks of UCI, Estee Lauder and Puig. Indictments are pending against Pedro Sandi et al, the alleged ringleader of this extensive criminal distribution network for counterfeit fragrances throughout Central America.

UCI investigative personnel initiated the investigation in Costa Rica in April 2001 and provided updates to counterpart personnel from Estee Lauder and Puig, USA. Based on information obtained by UCI, the Prosecutor’s Office in San Jose executed search warrants that resulted in the seizure of counterfeit fragrance products, components, manufacturing machinery, computer print discs and business records.

UCI credits the Prosecutor and staff in San Jose for their cooperation in aggressively working with victim trademark owners to enforce recently enacted Intellectual Property Rights legislation in Costa Rica. Reportedly, this is the first counterfeit fragrance case to be prosecuted under this new law.

This investigation serves to further demonstrate the global commitment of UCI to defend its Intellectual Property Rights and to willingly work with other trademark owners who share similar objectives.

Unilever Cosmetics International is the New York based manufacturer of cosmetics and fragrances for Calvin Klein; fragrances for Unilever Prestige brands: Nautica, BCBG Max Azria and Vera Wang and fragrances for the European Designer Parfums brands which include Cerruti, Chloe, Lagerfeld and Valentino.