Businessman Pleads Guilty to Selling £2.4 Million Worth of Fake Clothes in Rochdale

A businessman from Hale Barns has pleaded guilty to possession of counterfeit goods with intent to supply after a haul of fake designer clothing worth £2.4 million was uncovered at a business in Rochdale on January 28, 2022. Assum Malik, of High Elm Road, initially entered a not guilty plea but changed his plea during a hearing at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court on September 14, 2026.

During the court proceedings, Malik disputed the total value of the counterfeit goods, claiming it was closer to £1.2 million rather than the £2.4 million estimated by Rochdale Council. His defence lawyer, Richard Orme, argued that Malik had purchased a "job lot" of counterfeit stock for £6,000, intending to sell it for around £20,000. However, Judge Jason Macadam stated that the £2.4 million figure represented the potential losses to the legitimate brands had customers purchased the counterfeit items instead.

The court's findings highlight the significant impact of counterfeit goods on legitimate businesses, with the judge emphasising the importance of protecting brand integrity. Malik's case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences associated with the sale of counterfeit merchandise.

As the case progresses, further sentencing details will be determined by the court, and Malik faces potential penalties for his actions. This incident underscores the ongoing issue of counterfeit goods in the retail market, which continues to affect both consumers and legitimate businesses alike.