Misuse of intellectual property tantamount to theft, fraud

South Africa’s Buy Local campaign – Proudly South African – has strongly condemned the fraudulent use of its logo as part of an illegal lottery relating to the unauthorized sale of 2010 Fifa World Cup tickets.
 In a media release, Dalene du Preez, Proudly SA’s, Marketing and Communications Executive confirmed that the 2010 FIFA World Cup is intended to help build a positive social and economic legacy for South Africa and the continent of Africa. “It is truly deplorable that criminals would try to mislead unsuspecting soccer-loving citizens through the misuse of the trusted Proudly South African logo and brand”, she said.
 Products and services that carry the Proudly South African logo reflect the character and the good reputation of South Africa’s Buy Local brand. It signifies to consumers that the logo-bearing product (or service) originates from a homegrown company which is committed to good quality, employment creation and the empowerment of staff.

These companies source at least half of their production materials in South Africa and set a high standard in terms of good governance, including meeting, and often exceeding environmental standards. It therefore makes sense that when consumers Buy Local they are in fact helping to build the sustainability of local businesses, and their capacity to create jobs; to employ more local people and grow the South African economy in a way which is sustainable.


Regrettably, the criminal element, too, clearly understands the value of the Proudly South African brand association.
 Hopefully all proud and law-abiding citizens will take a positive message from this incident – and Buy Local – to help build a positive legacy for 2010 and beyond!
 The Campaign will take legal action to help prevent the misrepresentation of its intellectual property. The public is advised to always verify the credentials of anyone they intend doing business with, especially when a claim is made that the individual is associated with South Africa's national Buy Local Campaign.
 For more information on Proudly South African, or to report any suspected illegal use of the logo contact Leisle Timol, Brand Manager on 011 327 7778 or email: leislet@psanet.co.za.