The startup Authorized.by has developed a solution that allows brands and manufacturers to identify authorized dealers online using a counterfeit-proof seal. This is intended to protect brands and customers from counterfeit goods. The online marketplace eBay has been working with the startup since July 2019, and technical integration is expected to follow shortly. TÜV Saarland has now acquired a 25.1 percent stake in the Munich-based company, founded in 2016.
Thorsten Greiner, Managing Director of TÜV Saarland, says:
"TÜV Saarland focuses on the testing and certification of online offerings. The authorization platform Authorized.by is highly interesting to us both technically and conceptually, as the model brings a completely new perspective to the topic of brand protection on the Internet and ideally complements our services. Therefore, the collaboration is a natural fit."
TÜV's plans for Authorized.by
The investment will primarily be used to expand the workforce over the next twelve months. Furthermore, the number of connected brands is to be increased from the current level of just under 350 to 2,000 by the end of the year. Founder Felix Nottensteiner is relying on the network effect that connects retailers and brands. Retailers can authorize their trading partners via the platform with one click. Retailers, in turn, can request the seal from their suppliers online.
Through participation, Authorized.by In the future, they will also have access to TÜV Saarland's expertise in certification processes and data protection know-how. The startup will also have access to TÜV Saarland's broad network in the context of digital security. Greiner further explains:
"Economically, we are striving for healthy growth and, of course, have internationalization in mind, as the model is extremely scalable internationally. Brand protection on the Internet and certification of authorized online retailers is a major issue worldwide."
In addition, both partners aim to leverage synergies to digitize existing business models and processes and to identify and leverage additional business areas of TÜV Saarland and its participating companies. To further strengthen trust in the 'Authorized.by' seal among brands, dealers, and customers, the TÜV Saarland brand will also be integrated into the seal in the future.
