Original or counterfeit
The Distribution Partner Concept also means a significant step in the fight against counterfeit products. Authorized sales channels play a very important role in making the sale of counterfeit products more difficult and protecting customers and consumers against damage. With the Distribution Partner Concept, Schaeffler ensures that its end customers always receive original products from certified distributors.
Counterfeit certificates for distribution partners have already surfaced on the market. This shows that "Authorized Distributor Industrial" has become a very coveted title. As a safeguard against such cases, Schaeffler has assigned a clear number to the certificates, which can be checked for authenticity on the company's website. Another function on the website enables users to search for all distribution partners in a country or region. In case of doubt, customers should never solely rely on a certificate, but use the search function to check whether the issuer actually is an authorized distribution partner.
Schaeffler Industrial Aftermarket
Schaeffler Industrial Aftermarket (IAM) is responsible for the replacement parts and service business for end customers and sales partners in all major industrial sectors. IAM reduces maintenance and operating costs, increases machine availability, and thus boosts its customers' business success through comprehensive, innovative solutions, products, and services for rolling and plain bearings, as well as by consistently applying the total cost of ownership philosophy (TCO). Schaeffler AG has about 78,000 employees at over 180 locations worldwide, generates group sales of around 11.1 billion euros (FY 2012), and ranks among the world's leading rolling bearing manufacturers and suppliers to the automotive industry.