The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has been actively investigating and taking action against the growing threat of counterfeit razor blades. NBI operatives, armed with search warrants, successfully conducted multiple raids in Manila and Cebu and uncovered counterfeit razor blades on sale at several outlets. During the operation, the NBI seized over 19,000 counterfeit razor blades and refillable razors from 9 targets in Cebu and the City of Manila. All targets were distributors that were able to supply large quantities of counterfeit razor products. 2 wholesaler targets were identified in Divisoria Mall, San Nicolas, after several months of market surveys and investigations. Meanwhile, investigations in Cebu revealed that there were several large wholesalers of counterfeit razor products located at Ermita and Tinago in Cebu City.

With the support of DORCO, a global leader in the shaving industry for over 65 years, the raids were the culmination of months of investigations and surveillance against multiple online sellers. Through intensive investigations, the location and identity of the sellers were identified. Apart from their retail outlets, their offices and stock rooms were also raided. Based on investigations conducted, these sellers are active in online sales through social media platforms as well as e-commerce platforms. Counterfeit razor blades are suspected to be purchased from unauthorised and dubious sources overseas. The counterfeit razor blades are then distributed to unsuspecting customers as genuine products, where their exterior appearance makes them challenging to differentiate from genuine products. As a result of the raids, criminal prosecution is currently ongoing. Some of the wholesalers have admitted their illegal actions and have undertaken to stop selling counterfeits.

Commitment to protecting customers and honest sellers

DORCO is committed to working closely with NBI to protect consumers as well as honest resellers of razor blades. “DORCO appreciates the efforts of NBI in taking strong action against these counterfeit traders to safeguard the rights of consumers and honest businesses. Counterfeit razor blades pose a serious risk to consumers and can result in skin irritation, redness, and inflammation, especially for individuals with sensitive skin. Other risks include:

• Inferior Quality: Counterfeit blades are often made from substandard materials. Their production process does not adhere to safety standards.
• Safety Concerns: Poorly manufactured blades may have rough edges or uneven surfaces, increasing the risk of nicks, cuts, and abrasions during the shaving process.

DORCO encourages consumers to be vigilant when purchasing razor blades:

• Purchase from reputable retailers. Avoid buying from unfamiliar sellers and online sellers
• Check the packaging and labels. Pay attention to spelling errors, printing quality, as these are signs of counterfeit products. Take note that DORCO’s genuine double-edged blade (ST-300) has red packaging.
• Inspect Blade Quality: Examine the blade closely for signs of rough edges and uneven surfaces.
• While some counterfeit products are priced at the same price as a genuine product, if consumers come across suspiciously low-priced products or products claiming they are factory over-runs, beware that these may be counterfeits
• Because razors are products that consumers can easily discern the performance, if consumers find that the experience of the razor is different from what they are used to, it is advisable to re-check the product to ensure they did not inadvertently purchase a counterfeit product

As part of stringent quality control efforts, DORCO performs quality tests in multiple stages, including raw material analysis, in-process quality control, and total inspection. Countless evaluations are carried out to check the hardness of stainless-steel materials and control the assembly angles of razor blades based on DORCO’s own specifications. This process ensures that facial hair can be shaved with minimal skin irritation.

If you believe that you have purchased a counterfeit product, you should report it to the seller immediately and demand a refund. You may also report the sale and distribution of counterfeit DORCO products. For more information on DORCO, please visit https://www.dorcoglobal.com/