You may be aware that LASRA has gone to considerable lengths to ensure that the real/genuine leather claim can be backed up with fact. We have tried to make clients aware of the distinction between real/genuine leather, and simulations of leather, and that there may be legal consequences for getting it wrong. There is an International Council of Tanners definition of leather which is quite clear on what constitutes real or genuine leather, and have been asked on several occasions to determine how a material or product stacks up against this definition. LASRA does have the ability to make such determinations, and this is available to clients.
We are finding that official consumer protection agencies are taking an interest in erroneous naming of materials which form all or part of some products as leather. Leather simulations seem to be very much on their radar. This applies to anything made of leather. We have seen everything from belts to chairs under the spotlight. It seems that in New Zealand, the Consumer protection agency at Government level has “upped the Ante”. The consequences of a mistake in labeling look quite strenuous financially. Check out what happened recently over fake rugs
LASRA is also prepared to offer a certification program for your on-going protection, and is willing to discuss how you could advertise that a product or material is guaranteed to be made of genuine leather on an on-going basis. Where possible we want to help you avoid the considerable fines or penalties.