PNG Chiefs are aware that unauthorised merchandise bearing a fraudulent version of the club’s logo is being produced, distributed and sold across Papua New Guinea, and are warning fans and the public not to purchase these counterfeit products.
In a media statement released yesterday, the club wishes to make clear that its official logo and official merchandise have not yet been launched. Any PNG Chiefs merchandise currently being sold – in markets, in stores or online – is counterfeit and is not endorsed by, connected to, or approved by the club. These products are not subject to the club’s quality standards, and no proceeds from their sale support the club, its programs, or the development of rugby league in Papua New Guinea.
PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said the club was taking the matter seriously and urged fans to be vigilant.
“The pride our people have shown in the PNG Chiefs has been extraordinary, and it is disappointing that others are seeking to exploit that pride for their own gain,” McPherson said.
“We want to be very clear with our fans: our official logo and merchandise have not yet been released. Anything you see being sold today is not the real thing,” she said.
“Every counterfeit product sold takes money away from the game – away from the pathways, programs and community initiatives that this club was created to build for Papua New Guinea. When the time comes, buying official will mean backing the team and backing the future of rugby league in our country,” she added.
McPherson said the launch of the official PNG Chiefs logo and merchandise, and the commencement of official sales, will be announced in the coming months via the club’s digital platforms and through traditional media.
Fans are encouraged to follow the club’s official channels for confirmed announcements.
Anyone with information about counterfeit merchandise being produced or sold is encouraged to contact the club at Peggy.Maha@pngchiefs.com.pg.
The PNG Chiefs will work with the relevant authorities and will pursue all available legal avenues against those involved in the production, distribution and sale of counterfeit merchandise. The club’s name, logo and branding are protected intellectual property, and unauthorised use constitutes a serious infringement.