SMART-O Auto Solutions will include BrandWatch brand protection technology on their products and packaging to enable customers along the entire supply chain - from distribution to end-user – to verify the authenticity of products.

SMART-Os brand protection involves use of uniquely coded security tags on packaging as well as invisible chemical trace materials embedded into the products for electronic detection. SMART-O will deploy BrandWatch Technologies’ as a pre-emptive measure to protect the brand and patent assets, while also protecting consumers from inferior counterfeit products.

SMART-O end-users, distributors and Original Equipment customers can use a camera phone to verify the authenticity of products by cross-referencing a unique product code with a secure database. SMART-O leverages the BrandWatch Technology solution to prompt users to scan QR-coded security tags which link them to the brand website where they can directly verify product authenticity and engage in further online and social media interaction with the brand. Furthermore, the online interaction enables geographical tracking to spot grey market diversion and to invoke selective product recall, if necessary.

“Selling or using counterfeit auto parts carries considerable liability, warranty, reputational and safety risks. Needless to say how poorly engineered automotive parts can put lives at risk if failure occurs”, said Randall Harvey CMO of SMART-O. “ According to Automotive News China, China’s illegal auto parts trade is expected to produce $45 billion worth of counterfeit parts in 2011 and is responsible for 83 percent of the world’s counterfeit parts.

BrandWatch Technologies facilitate the implementation of an aggressive and effective Intellectual Property Rights protection and brand enforcement strategy in partnership with the international, specialist IP law firm, Rouse.

About BrandWatch Technologies

Established in 2001, BrandWatch Technologies is a global leader in brand security and product authentication solutions.  BrandWatch Technologies focuses on securing supply chains, reducing liability, detecting counterfeits, implementing track and trace, identifying grey market diversion, and verifying product recycle chains.

For more information, call Steve Delepine 503-285-3890 or visit the company’s website at http://brandwatchtech.com

About SMART-O

SMART-O automotive solutions stand for an innovative range of high-end auto aftermarket products, geared towards performance and protection: SMART-O plug – the intelligent oil drain plug, engineered to reduce the risk of engine damage, oil pan damage and pollution through oil loss from a vehicle. SMART-O wiper blade refills provide increased performance in extreme climates , product life, and waste reduction. SMART-O surface solutions – made in Germany – offer powerful cleaning, polishing and paint protection.

To learn more, please go to:
www.smart-o-auto.com