A Merton-based cosmetics wholesaler who supplied illegal cosmetics to a Thamesmead business has been prosecuted by us after a Trading Standards investigation.
Councillor Ann-Marie Cousins, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Enforcement, was concerned to learn that a supplier to businesses in the borough failed to comply with safety standards requirements.
She commended the investigation of staff and said: “It’s important that all products for sale in our borough meet essential safety requirements, including correct labelling. The successful prosecution shows that we will seek prosecution of any company – even those outside of our borough – who do not comply with the regulations that are in place for the safety of our residents.”
On 13 September, Janson Ltd and its Director, Riyaz Janmohamed were sentenced at Bexley Magistrates Court following a seizure of illegal cosmetics at Ade’s of 132 Nathan Way in Thamesmead on 6 December 2021.
The prosecution was brought after the investigation found that Janson Ltd had imported some of the cosmetics from the USA and EU whilst others had been purchased within the UK. None of the products met the essential safety requirement of being labelled with the name and address of a responsible person within the UK or EU.
Mr Janmohamed admitted he was aware of the requirement and had been negligent in not making sure all products were checked by his staff. He stated there had been staffing problems due to Brexit. Janson has now appointed a full-time member of staff to make sure all products on sale for the UK are legally compliant.
Mr Janmohamed received a fine of £5,000 and costs of £1,000 and the company received fines of £10,000 and costs of £4,000. The total fines, costs and victim surcharges came to £17,880 which must be paid within two months.
Janson Ltd supply cosmetics to businesses across the UK and internationally and this conviction will send a clear message nationally, that cosmetic wholesalers need to make sure they remain within the law.
Anyone who suspects the sale of illegal or counterfeit cosmetics can report it anonymously online to London Trading Standards or to the national consumer helpline on 0808 2231133.
