26 July 2010
Russian Bearing Invention for a Level Playing Field

Russian bearing distributors have established a new novelty name to describe the "fake" Country of Origin as used by brands IBC, NKE, FBJ, UBC & VISTA as "ARTFUL CHINESE" 
 
This form of satire is possibly the best, outside taking legal action, to enlighten Consumers about the dangers of Labeling Chinese bearings to that of Germany, cashing in on a much higher price tag. 
 
Perhaps this same slogan can be adopted for the continuing "fake" Counterfeit claims as marketed by SKF Industries to "ARTFUL DECEPTION" 

15 July 2010
German Minister Calls for Code of Conduct to Internet 'Honour Code'

BERLIN 12 July 2010 — Germany's consumer minister, who vowed to delete her Facebook account in protest at the networking site's privacy policies, called Monday for an Internet "CODE of CONDUCT" this honour code to protect personal data. essential.


"We need an Conduct honour code... 10 golden rules -- short, sharp and clear," Ilse Aigner told Die Welt daily in an interview.

"Such rules can only come from the Internet community. It would be good if users themselves made suggestions. We could base them on social networks that already have a 'netiquette'.

"The Internet could become the pillory of the 21st century. The trend is worrying," added the minister.

Last month, Aigner, a member of Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservatives, said she would remove her page from Facebook after failing to receive assurances from the US firm that her private data were secure.

"Anyone who visits a social networking site should know that it's a business model. The service is not free. We users pay for it with our private data," Aigner said.

She launched another broadside at Facebook saying she had become a member of other social sites with better privacy controls.

With these sites, "I can decide to open doors and windows and I can better control what personal information I share with others," she said.

"On Facebook, the reverse is true: I have to go through the cumbersome process of changing my security setting to close these doors and windows and protect my privacy.

"Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg has indicated that in principle, he does not want to change anything. In contrast, his firm wants to use members' private profiles for commercial purposes," the minister added.

Partly for historical reasons, Germany is particularly sensitive about privacy issues, with campaigners bristling at plans by US Internet giant Google to launch its "Street View" service in Germany later this year.

"Street View" allows Internet users to view panoramic still photographs at street level from spots around the world, with images taken from specially equipped vehicles.

Officials and campaigners in Germany called the service an invasion of privacy and a potential security risk, a CODE of CONDUCT is essential.

5 July 2010
BRAMMER & SKF Counterfeit Claims Again False

From previous Fake counterfeit claims by BRAMMER & SKF, 10 May 2010
"Bearing Bandit Brands" - part one.
Quote:
"Roulement Bearings Kugellager was ordered to pay damages of €45,000 to SKF late last year for distributing copies of its bearings. It was also ordered to pay all of the associated with the confiscation of the counterfeit products as well as the publication of the court order in three magazines" By Mr. Jeremy Salisbury, Senior Engineer at Brammer's HQ UK 
 
Another Fake claim by the same person at BRAMMER appears in several trade magazines. 
 
This is again a typical ploy by SKF to market product and concern the engineering Industry to buy only SKF bearings at the expense of other brands. Other similar ploys include 2007 in Germany and 2009 in Czech Republic to name a few. 
 
Having prior legal convictions against SKF, one has the impression they will never learn. 

5 July 2010
The Society for Automotive Engineers Keeping Pace with Bearings

Just to let the Bearing Industry know that SAE's website just received a makeover!

www.sae.org re-engineered for mobilitly engineers worldwide
http://www.sae.org/servlets/newsletter?LINK=MBRWEBEMLa002&PID=74185031

Designed first and foremost with our members and customers in mind, the site brings together all that SAE has to offer and enables users to customize their navigation to best fit their professional needs.

We've put together a brief video that offers insight into the "what and why" of the changes that will work towards providing an improved user experience.

Check out the video and the website then let us know what you think by calling us at 1.877.606.7323 or emailing us at CustomerService@sae.org or via the BICC: info@bearingcode.com

22 June 2010
SKF Disputed Claims of Corporate Behaviour

Last months press release re: SKF award to FTSE4Good Index Series claiming Corporate Responsibility, has been disputed and not ratified as a Global endorsement for Good Corpoarate Behaviour.

"The FTSE4Good Index is a tool for investors, and as a result it is rules-based, built on transparent criteria that companies have to meet to be listed in the Index" said Mr. David Harris, Director, Responsible Investment Unit FTSE Group

David Harris further stated "SKF's inclusion in the FTSE4Good Index Series and concerns over involvement in Price Fixing and Counterfeit Products, wil be raised at the next FTSE Committee meeting."

From SKF's Cartel damage that attracted crimial convictions and penaliies of more than 19 million euros, has yet to receive official whistleblower immunity from the EU courts.

Whistleblower immunity is normally granted to corporations who cooperate with legal authorities either before or after Court proceedings or show a degree of remorse. In all cases, SKF has not cooperated.

The CEO of SKF Industries Tom Johnstone and his Board, last week declined to make comment to BICC.

3 June 2010
Russia Acknowledges Problematic Bearing Brands

The BICC has forged links with Russia with an exchange of information, recognition, membership and of culture acceptance. BICC news articles will be translated into Russian by our Moscow counter-parts and relayed throughout the entire Country including government departments 
 
Below is our news article 11 May 2010 in Russian on allegations of brands not in Compliance, with misleading marketing information to Consumer & Competition Standards. 

Новая информация о подшипниковых брендах-бандитах делающих прибыли на
обмане потребителей 
  
Комментировать 
 
Дата публикации: 29/05/2010 
 
 
Некоммерческая международная организация Bearing Industry Code of Conduct (BICC), пытающаяся противодействовать недобросовестным отношениям на мировом подшипниковом рынке, вновь обратила свое внимание на ряд брендов, которые не наносят на подшипники и упаковку истинное место производства, тем самым вводя заблуждение потребителей и зарабатывая сверхприбыли. Основной причиной подобной ситуации, как считают специалисты, является скептическое отношение потребителей к качеству подшипников произведенных в Китае и Индии, не без основания полагающие, что производители из этих странах и даже всемирно известные бренды, имеющие там свои производства, пока, к сожалению, не могут предложить мировому рынку достойную продукцию. Потребители не желают
покупать китайские и индийские подшипники задорого, требуя у поставщиков низких цен, не давая возможность таким образом делать добавленную стоимость. Поэтому в погоне за прибылями ряд владельцев брендов, изготавливающие подшипники в Китае или Индии на собственных фабриках или по субподряду, стараются скрыть истинное место производства, тем самым фактически обманывая клиентов, а также нарушая законодательство многих странах, превращаясь тем самым в бандитов. 
 
 
 
 
Чтобы как можно дольше избегать проблем, владельцы брендов совместно со своими торговыми партнерами идут на ряд ухищрений, среди них: 
1) регистрация юридического лица (владельца бренда) в развитой стране – если законы разрешают, то появляется возможность указывать на подшипниках и упаковке "Производитель: страна регистрации", а также позиционировать бренд как бренд из развитой страны; 
2) “безымянные” подшипники поставляются на склад или предприятие со специальным оборудованием в развитой стране, где проводят фирменную маркировку и упаковку – цели достигаются те же, что и в первом случае; 
3) на подшипнике и его упаковке вообще не указывается место производства; 
4) крайняя степень закрытости – потребитель, без специально заказанного расследования, не может определить: 
 
а) кому по-настоящему принадлежит бренд (что за фирма или группа людей стоит за ним), 
б) подшипники изготавливаются на собственных заводах или на контрактных предприятиях, 
в) где находятся эти фабрики, 
г) каков технический уровень производства, какие технологические операции там производятся (отсутствует видео- и фотоматериал с заводов, нет ознакомительных экскурсий по производственным площадкам), 
д) путь следования подшипников от места производства до потребителя. 
По мнению специалистов, подобными методами пользуются многие производители подшипников из Китая, а также некоторые популярные международные торговые марки, в последние годы проводящие агрессивную маркетинговую политику на мировом подшипниковом рынке. 
Проведенный BICC анализ сообщений, поступивший в ее адрес из различных уголков мира, выявил, что подшипники, производимые под марками NKE, FBJ, IBC, UBC, VISTA, имеют некоторые проблемы в области интеллектуальной собственности, особенно с той частью, что касается обмана потребителей путем искажения места изготовления продукции. К сожалению, имеющиеся на данный момент информация и улики не позволяют подать судебные иски против этих брендов. 
 
Признаки нарушений в области интеллектуальной собственности, выявленные BICC 

Бренд 
Потребитель, вводимый в заблуждение специальными маркетинговыми
методами, считает, что подшипники производятся в этой стране 
Признаки нарушений 
 
NKE 
Австрия 
1) произведенные в Китае и Индии на контрактных производствах подшипники позиционируются как оригинальные подшипники NKE; 
2) на кольцах подшипников не нанесена страна-производитель и торговая марка; 
3) на коробках и упаковка не указано, что подшипники произведены за рубежом; 
4) "Made in Austria" ("Произведено в Австрии") отмечено в большинстве документов. 
 
FBJ 
Япония 
1) на подшипниках и упаковке не указана страна-производитель; 
2) на официальном сайте и в документах к подшипникам не указано, что подшипники произведены в Китае, хотя представители FBJ не раз заявляли о производстве на контрактных предприятиях; 
3) в проводимой маркетинговой компании упоминается Япония; 
4) небольшая ссылка на Сингапур, в то же время там расположен основной центр дистрибуции этих подшипников; 
5) продается по цене близкой к цене китайских подшипников. 
 
VISTA, UBC 
США 
1) на упаковке и подшипниках не указано, что Китай; 
2) на коробках напечатано USA (США); 
3) нигде не указано, что США – это только место дистрибуции; 
4) ограниченная техническая поддержка. 
 
IBC 
Германия 
1) все подшипники маркируются "Made in Germany"; 
2) на подшипниках не нанесено "Made in Taiwan", хотя некоторые производятся именно там; 
3) в документах отмечена Германия; 
4) обманчивая маркировка в Сингапуре. 
 
BICC рекомендует с осторожностью относиться к подшипникам под этими торговыми марками, понимать, что, покупая их, Вы обогащаете владельцев брендов и торговцев, делающих прибыль на разнице между конечной стоимостью и себестоимостью в размере до 200% и более. 
 
По материалам: http://bearingcode.com/ 
 

11 May 2010
"Generation Y" Factors Change for Industry

They say, 'If it ain't broke, don't fix it.' What sensible advice. Often, though, it is used as an excuse for apathy.

Many things may not be exactly 'broke' but they are certainly inefficient and unsatisfactory.

If we leave them alone, just because they seem better than nothing, we make a poor choice.

The BICC is now bringing about a much-needed change. Out with the Old, In with the New. Many people in the Bearing Industry maybe concerned with all this new stuff, when can you remember the last big change ?

We are now in the less corrupt era of "Generation Y" where its cool for grown up Y"s to holiday with their cashed up "Baby Boomer" parents. Now socially acceptable. We trust Industry will follow suit

11 May 2010
Bearing Bandit Brands - part two.

The issues of false and misleading identification used by smaller bearing brands appear pandemic and to a certain extent, out of control, who simply confuse and 'trick' markets in the name of Distribution.

And their distributors, without scruples, welcome this confusion to disguise the true Country of origin knowingly put 'Spin' to the un-assumed End-User or Consumer in anticipation of an order.

Brands include: NKE, FBJ, IBC, UBC, VISTA and many Chinese producers who simply refuse to label and identify their true place of Origin.

From communications involving Audit procedures with NKE BEARINGS in Austria, found concerns with many fundamental breaches of Compliance and violation to Intellectual Property particularly to the true Country of Origin for complete Bearings, with deception of manufacture evident.

Examples found NKE Austria:
*Chinese bearings substituted as NKE bearings
*Indian bearings substituted as NKE bearings
*No branding on Bearing Rings
*No Country of Origin on Bearings Rings
*No Foreign country stamped on boxes or packaging
*The words "NKE Bearings Steyr Austria" on boxes & packaging
*"Made in Austria" is marked on most documents

Examples found FBJ China:
*No markings on bearings or boxes
*No reference to China on documents or Website
*Japan is mentioned with all marketing
*Little reference to Singapore
*Prices consistent with Chinese
*Countries eg. RUSSIA state FBJ pricing cheaper than domestic

Examples found UBC, VISTA other Chinese
*China not marked on bearings & boxes
*USA stamped on boxes
*Distribution as USA Origin
*Limited technical support

Examples found IBC
*All bearings marked 'Made in Germany'
*No bearings marked 'Made in Taiwan'
*Documentation marked Germany
*Deceptive marking in Singapore

10 May 2010
Bearing Bandit Brands - part one.

Counterfeit products, bearings without makings or bearings with false stampings appear universal, the only issue at stake is price acceptance.

We have stressed many times the dangers in dealing with certain brands, especially those who don't comply to a Country of Origin, unbranded Rings and to packaging or false and misleading identification.

Strangely, it appears the threat of that "Genuine Counterfeit Bearing" is quite easily detected, given the dramas' played out by some mainstream Manufacturers of misleading & fake Press releases designed for free and easy advertising their own products.

There are many examples of Fake Press Releases particularly by SKF who gain free editorials from magazines advising to Consumers of SKF counterfeit catch, knowing its just a publicity stunt.

Last week, SKF LUTON together with their UK distributor BRAMMER issued a major, but completely False press article, all in the name of Propaganda journalism.

Quote:

"Roulement Bearings Kugellager was ordered to pay damages of €45,000 to SKF late last year for distributing copies of its bearings. It was also ordered to pay all of the associated with the confiscation of the counterfeit products as well as the publication of the court order in three magazines"

The Author of this press release, Mr. Jeremy Salisbury, Senior Engineer at Brammer's HQ UK, with SKF Luton's consent

The BICC sent emails requesting the authenticity to Brammer and SKF - No response.

26 April 2010
SAE International Thanks/Grazie to BICC

Statement received from CEO, L. Schutt, PhD, Society for Automotive Engineers, International

Arigato... grazie... barkal... terima kasih... komapsumnida... gyalailaa... danke... merci... obrigado... tack... thank you.

With members in 100 nations around the world, it is difficult to say "thank you" in every language, but, nonetheless, "thank you" is what we at SAE International want to say to the BearingCode during National Volunteer Week.

Volunteers are the engines that drive much of what is good in our society - be they organizations that help the underprivileged or individuals who give their time to help children discover the excitement and promise of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Volunteers also are the reason why SAE International has succeeded and thrived in its more than one-hundred-year mission of serving the mobility engineering community. Everything that we do is through the guidance, help and support of our volunteers and members - standards development, technical committees, operating boards and even judging for collegiate design competitions are possible because of volunteers.

And, it doesn't end there. Did you know that SAE International's Board of Directors and Officers, authors, peer-reviewers, faculty advisors and Section officers also are volunteers? The list goes on, and each year it seems that more people are willing to give their time and talents to SAE International.

On behalf of SAE International, I want to say "thank you." You embody the spirit of National Volunteer Week and you epitomize the spirit of SAE International.

Respectfully,
David L. Schutt, PhD
SAE International
Chief Executive Officer
April 23, 2010
SAE International - 400 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15096-0001
USA

20 April 2010
Bearingcode Members Section Now Complete in Detail

The Bearing Code has completed all sections to the 'Members Login' area providing critical information and reports for Bearing Manufacturers, Distributors, Institutions including the Press media and related Industries.

The 'Members Login' pages are the most comprehensive ever published for the global Bearing Industry to the categories listed.

A brief summary of the sections:-

* Your Brand Report.
Allows members free reporting on Bearing businesses, limited access to China.

* Country of Origin.
Provides the necessary legal conditions

* Material Specifications.
The importance to engineered Bearing Standards requirements

* Counterfeiter.
Identifies those businesses involved and how prevention can be achieved

* Faker.
Lists the businesses who Fake conditions eg. Counterfeiting for marketing gain

* Piracy Policy.
Detailed listing to prevent violation to Intellectual Property, How to avoid & catch

* Certification.
The importance to Compliance for Consumers

* Manufacturer.
Dedicated to all Bearing & Component Manufacturers

* Distributor.
Dedicated to the Distributor and End-User

* Legal Convictions
Listing of serious convicted violations by Bearing Corporations for serious crimes

15 April 2010
SAE Bearing Industry Volunteers Next Call Up

Society for Automotive Engineers volunteers have an invaluable impact on the success of the SAE and to all Industry Leaders. But did you know that it can have many benefits for you personally too?

Consider these reasons to be a part of the SAE professional network:-

- Boost your career options
- Volunteering is the perfect way to explore new fields, expand your work portfolio in your field
- Gain a real insight into your chosen path

A recent survey* showed:

73% of employers would recruit a candidate with volunteering experience over one without
94% of employers believe that volunteering can add to skills
94% of employees who volunteered to learn new skills had benefited either by getting their first job, improving their salary, or being promoted

*Time Bank survey through Reed Executive

Volunteering is a perfect vehicle to discover something you are really good at or develop a professional and/or technical skill that can benefit your career via many 'Standard Committees'

Airframe Bearing Group Commitee Members
Aerospace Standards Committee Members
Award Committee Members
Ground Vehicle Standards Committee Members
Technical Committee Document Sponsors
Technical Paper Authors
Technical Reviewers (papers, books, professional development courses)
Technical Session Organizers

TIMKEN Bearing Co USA are a big contributor to SAE including multiple million dollar grants PA

Volunteering offers an incredible networking opportunity. You never know who you will meet or what new information you will learn

Give back to future generations of engineers and all those involved in Marketing, Sales & Logistics

If you are interested in a volunteer opportunity, please contact us at:- volunteer@sae.org
or via the Bearing Industry Code of Conduct:-ian@bearingcode.com

26 March 2010
2010 World’s Most Ethical Companies

The World’s Most Ethical Companies designation recognizes companies that truly go beyond making statements about doing business “ethically” and translate those words into action. WME honorees demonstrate real and sustained ethical leadership within their industries, putting into real business practice the Institute’s credo of “Good. Smart. Business. Profit.”

There is no set number of companies that make the list each year. Rather, the World’s Most Ethical Company designation is awarded to those companies that have leading ethics and compliance programs, particularly as compared to their industry peers. This year, there are 100 World’s Most Ethical Companies. Of these companies, 26 are new to the list in 2010 and 24 companies dropped off from the 2009 list. These “drop offs” generally occurred because of litigation and ethics violations, as well as increased competition from within their industry.

The Timken Company USA; who is a regular to the ‘Bearing Industry Code of Conduct’ is the only Bearing business recognized.

Other leading Bearing manufacturers e.g. SKF INA FAG NSK KOYO SNR did not qualify in any ‘most ethical’ sections due to prior legal convictions for Price Fixing.

Industrial Manufacturing Section WME

Caterpillar

Deere & Company

Eaton

Milliken and Company

Rockwell Automation

Timken

19 March 2010
The Bearing Industry Baby Boomers Club

From many news articles written by Academics suggests new, emerging worldviews will clash against outdated and stagnant worldviews of the late 20th century.

Some predict that People who refused to adapt by choosing to remain frozen in their ways and outlooks, and who by choice, are threatened by change, will find later that they have seriously neglected essential areas of their lives.

It will not be easy to work with people who are resistant to change. These are people who are afraid of the future, and thus prefer to stick solely with what they believe will work based on the outdated practices that has proven not only faulty - but entirely useless in light of the crumbling of old structures.

Much of this fear is based on many in western society who see retirement as a negative thing, and who have not prepared themselves for the facts of life of aging. Many people are unaware that world events clearly show that the materialistic structures they've depended on all of their lives is now crumbling due to widespread mismanagement, corruption, and the lack of vision and foresight.

The Bearing Industry has these concerns in particular to Transparency and the false press releases of a grand order called "World Bearing Association", however it's the old "baby boomer" management of this group is the most worrying.  

8 March 2010
Bearing Prices at Record Lows in Asia

As Asian economies appear certain to re-bound, coupled with China's continued thirst for anything & everything, emerges cheaper floor pricing for Bearings in most brands throughout the entire Far East Markets.

Japanese Bearing price levels are slashed to an approx 10 year lows and SKF competing with FAG for the top-end their prices are so attractive that the so-called 'Grey' market has virtually dried up.

This 'Grey' market is created by surplus or over stocked bearings dispersed via back doors of the most reputable brands pushed by Managers looking for sales income at any price. Of course this is hotly denied with blame laid firmly against a 'gangster' type element within the Bearing Industry, but as the US Courts determined a couple of years ago (SKF vs. Others) the 'Grey' Market is a legitimate form of marketing or business enterprise on the verge of extinction, for at least the time being.

Another example of how Bearing prices have declined was the quick entry & exit of old brands such as ZKL trying to compete in Asia, without much success. The Czech bearing, although has good manufacturing ability has not the capabilities to compete against the Japanese or Chinese with Pricing, Packaging or the stigma & reputation of former Communist times. With continuous debt left behind from the 'ZKL Bearings Australia Pty Ltd' company, becomes a challenge to prevent bankruptcy.

So if you have a 'Cashed-up' bearing business, survived the winter chills of the Northern hemisphere and the financial crisis, then many bargains are now on offer, but don't expect this to last.

25 February 2010
Schaeffler’s RBS Banker Reports Continuing Losses

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC, which is 84% owned by the UK government after being bailed out, today reported a further loss of 3.6 billion pounds for 2009, topping up the loss of 24.3 billion pounds for 2008, a British corporate all time record loss.

CEO Stephen Hester citied improvements but promised a "hard slog" was ahead, and announced a further 2,300 job cuts.

However, RBS also booked impairment losses of 13.9 billion pounds for 2009, compared to 7.4 billion in 2008.

RBS states they already completed 70 percent of the planned balance sheet reduction. Hester said “loan impairments for 2010 will be a difficult year, with limited visibility of our end value."

The ball bearing producer Schaeffler borrowed heavily from 3 banks with the RBS leading the chase for the Continental Group and as previously reported, if the UK Government decides to rain in further corporate debt then Continental may breathe a little easier.

15 February 2010
The Increasing Acceptance of Counterfeit Product

From published global polls on peoples attitude toward buying Counterfeit products, around 50% surveyed were in favour of purchasing ‘fakes’ than the genuine copyright article. And when gender difference is considered, the vast majority was females for that boutique ‘Prada or Gucci’ hand bag, silk shirt or ‘Rolex’ watch.

Although this is ‘price driven’ there is another excitement that paying at least 10 times less is a show of resentment or a slap in the face to IP manufacturers. So demand wins irrespective of quality, although copies or fakes are now considered OK compared to a few years ago.

The Bearing Industry has also become a victim of this same counterfeit mentality right under our very eyes with the least resistant or least talked about.

Without referring too much about the ‘copy’ SKF or Timken bearing produced in Asia or Italy, it’s the ‘copy’ of Country of Origin that many bearing dealers are prepared to purchase. There is no difference between “Brand Counterfeiters” to that of “Country Counterfeiters” and both provide handsome rewards.

Innovation is not solely owned by a few blessed established companies with recognized standards and IP protection, but also by the many clever ‘Young & Free’ who are eager to give everything a go without the constraints of protocol.

And due to the proven increased demand for that ‘copy’, perhaps an Argument exists to work or cooperate with Counterfeiters of Brand or Country in the name of safety?

After all, the main bearing manufacturers SKF, Schaeffller, Japanese have all resisted any form of regulation whilst being guilty & convicted of Price Fixing.

14 February 2010
More Counterfeit Bearings From Europe's Heartland

Counterfeit clutch release Bearings were caught up in the latest massive haul of counterfeit goods in recent years, and Italy's national retailers association say around 6.9bn euros (£6bn) of fake products are sold each year.

Counterfeit bearings from Italy have been a problem for the EU over a number of years. In 2007, BICC correspondence with Schaeffler's Lawyer Frau Bichelmeir-Bohn identified a producer of Counterfeit clutch bearings,however authorities hesitated to take action against the offenders. The BICC lacked funding to commence legal proceedings and Schaeffler Germany made no further comment.

13 February 2010 bbc-uk reports:-
"Among other elaborate scams in recent years has been the case of two Japanese businessmen who were stopped on a train carrying fake bonds worth 97bn euros.

Then there was the giant counterfeit olive oil deception. The batches were actually concoctions of sunflower oil mixed with industrial chlorophyll.

There have been calls for a counterfeit tsar to be appointed to stop the rackets which cost legitimate businesses so much.

But in a country where top class labels like Gucci, Bulgari and Armani are so common, stopping the trade is, in practical terms, highly unlikely,especially when so many buyers are eager to snap up fakes."

4 February 2010
Ceramic Skate Bearings in Question

The original Skate bearing with ceramic balls has been marketed & used by both sporting & hobby enthusiasts for several years, obtaining high speeds with performance.

The Swiss firm who are making and distributing these ceramic bearings are no longer marking "Made in Switzerland" or "Switzerland" and a notable difference in design & with an increase in tolerance making the balls extra loose that acts against tight cornering during use. There are some ceramic types just use the word "Swiss" and allegations with intent to mislead, all appear very "shoddily" manufactured.

One irate skater specifically asked 'Bones' the country of origin, but in three memos from them, the answer was avoided and ignored.

Replies from: www.skateone.com in response to emails sent to Bones' website inquiry (www.bonesbearings.com): further inflamed the situation stating that they are not interested in petty matters.

However, the BICC appreciates that Skate Riders are in the millions and command a better deal when purchasing replacements. Below are some photos sent in by Skaters.

18 January 2010
Cartels Within the Bearing Industry on Watch 'Financial Review'

The number of tip-offs to the regulator about Cartels had significantly increased since tough new criminal cartel laws became operational, although criminal prosecutions relating to Cartels have declined.

'FW' claims the regulators had not received many calls in the past from parties who weren't involved in cartel conduct expressing complaints or concerns about cartels. But since the tightening of laws came into force, there had been "an increased awareness of cartels and as a result there are more complaints and tip-offs."

The Cartel laws include criminal sanctions of up to 10 years and jail for company executives with regulators keeping a watch on Chinese bearing manufacturers but not confined. EU & Japanese Bearing Manufacturers SKF, FAG, INA, SNR/NTN, NSK & KOYO were found guilty of cartel crime, convicted & fined 19.1 million euro by a French Court.

Clayton Utz global firm of lawyers partner Mr. Bruce Lloyd said many companies had conducted checks on Joint Ventures and activities that involved competitors, and people needed to be more careful than before because of the criminal consequences of breaching the laws, including jail time.

Many law firms have reshaped their practices in line with the new criminal laws, setting up crack squads and handing out calling cards to clients with emergency telephone numbers for experts available around the clock to provide advice in the event of a raid by regulators.

11 January 2010
Schaeffler Facing Reverse Takeover by Continental Bankers

Although Schaeffler has the majority of 49.9% of the Continental Group, the 3 lending Banks led by the Royal Bank of Scotland (now in full control by the UK Government) will ultimately decide how the final breakup will appear on paper, and that may not happen till 2011 not good for corporate moral.

Maria Schaeffler's bold bid has not impressed pundits although Continental's current share price has made a north bound recovery leaving Maria only around half her debt from 6 months ago. Although at this level, Continental is still 5 to 6 times larger than Schaeffler leaving a huge gap, not only in refinancing but in creditability.

The recent announcement by Continental in fund-raising of billions more Euros to bolster their serious cash flow, places Maria in somewhat of a tricky position as Bankers are more reliant on Continental than Schaeffler. And if the UK government wants RBS to further improve liquidity, Continental will be too powerful for Maria leaving little choice for the lenders to ensure a Reverse takeover of Ball Bearing producer.

18 December 2009
Bearing Non Profit to Corporate Control Facelift

The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct (BICC) is a robust and controversial Non-Profit organisation; setting Standards for Corporate self-Regulation, publishes news articles that are not designed for harm but to expose certain weaknesses within our important Industry.

The BICC prime objective is to raise our image as a ‘Bearing Community’ big or small without interfering in any bearing Intellectual Property (IP), this desired reflection is designed to stabilise and increase our floor pricing and where possible, avoiding any decline against like Industries.

Over the past 3 years, the BICC has increased its Internet viewing base 10 fold and is now read by approx 1,700 companies from over 90 countries each month. November 2009, the BICC attracted nearly 30,000 hits and although in the bigger picture this maybe deemed small, we do not offer any buying or selling service or that of a glitzy movie site.

In 2010, the BICC having recognition from various groups including the SAE International USA, wants to investigate the merits of a Non-Profit group with small government subsidies, against that of a corporate group attracting Advertisers, Membership, Stakeholders or Subscription base information and Corporate governance service.

We take notice of the ‘Electronic Industry Code of Conduct’ (EICC) that was converted into a corporate group some years ago by ‘Microsoft’, has now a huge support base that successfully eliminated Counterfeiting, Price Fixing Cartels and installed a non sensitive self regulation control to keep the status quo. EICC membership is now so big they decided to close until reviewing its own regulations.

Therefore, we seek your views on changing our concept without upsetting our ‘mould’. We will take it as a compliment if you want the BICC in the same format, or that of a forward thinker if you can understand our purpose for upgrading with a vibrant facelift.

We welcome your comments on: ian@bearingcode.com

15 December 2009
Wind of Change Blows Through Bearings Market

Wellingborough, UK, 10th December 2009. Bearing manufacturers will be keeping a keen eye on events unfolding at the UN's climate change summit in Copenhagen this month.

World leaders are expected to commit to a number of new measures aimed at reducing the planet's carbon emissions, providing a boost to the renewable energy sector, and in turn, the bearings industry.

The charge towards generating more of our energy from renewable sources has seen the wind turbine industry witness emphatic growth levels over recent years. Whilst the economic downturn and subsequent strangling of capital for new projects has slowed this growth somewhat, bearings manufacturers are expected to reap substantial rewards from this sector in the coming years.

Craig Foster, author of "The EMEA and Americas Markets for Bearings" study believes that producers of the spherical roller bearing - the main bearing type used in wind turbines - will be the biggest beneficiaries. "The spherical roller bearing market was estimated to be worth $2.1 billion in the EMEA and $714 million in the Americas in 2008. Whilst total sales of this bearing have fallen in 2009, sales of those used in wind turbines remained fairly steady.

Future growth of the spherical roller bearing market is expected to outstrip that of other bearings types as countries seek to fulfil their carbon reduction obligations and add more wind turbines to the electricity grid."

If you would like an interview with an expert in this area, please contact Chris George, Press Manager, at Chris.George@imsresearch.com or +44 1933 402255 or info@bearingcode.com

8 December 2009
FBJ Bearings & Singapore Continue to Deceive Country of Origin

The BICC is carefully monitoring bearing manufacturers and dealers for deceptive or wrongful Acts against the interests of a 'level playing field' or that of the Consumer & Competition act 1974.

More recently, "FBJ Bearing" brand false marketing by their Singapore operations owned and controlled by 'International Bearings Ltd', and its ever increasing dominance in the Far East Asian, Australian & Russian markets.

After constant reminders to FBJ Singapore operators that 'they are acting against the Trade Act', FBJ continue on there merry way to deceive & distort bearing dealers and end users by not labeling "Made in CHINA" on FBJ Bearing or packaging. Just view their internet site.

When questioned, FBJ are very quick to reply the real 'Country of Origin' is JAPAN which in percentage terms gains them approx 200% more in both Income and Profitability. And whilst FBJ total sales are extremely small compared to major players, manufacturers such as SKF do nothing to assist the BICC to eliminate this illegal behavior.

6 December 2009
The Subtle Art of Bearing Packaging

Bearing Labeling can alter from one manufacturer to another with little continuity, making it difficult in many cases to recognize the true identity from Country of production.

We have noticed during 2009 that "SKF Industries" adopted the BICC recommendations in marking all bearings including from their outsourced 'contractors' with the true 'Country of Origin' example of  'Made in Czech' by contractor ZKL Bearings to SKF.

On the other hand, there seems many Bearing Corporations including Schaeffler, Timken etc labeling 'Country of Origin' only when marketing acceptability is fashionable eg. Timken is hesitant to label 'Timken Made in Poland'

Whilst arguments with Lawyers from Switzerland's RKB Bearings and BICC into product identification, very little labeling of 'Country of Origin' to RKB bearing or boxes appears. However, the Swiss corporation internet site clearly identifies bearings produced in CHINA.

Then, the other end of the labeling scale eg. NKE, VISTA, UBC, FBJ all false and misleading.

18 November 2009
SHUSTER USA and BICC Conciliate for Retraction

The Lawyers representing the Shuster Corporation and the Bearing Industry Code of Conduct have successfully conciliated with the following retraction Press Release.

"Shuster Corporation has been producing and importing bearings for approximately 20 years under the SHUSTER brand. Shuster Corporation produces, imports, and markets bearings from China, Italy, Japan, and Russia, in addition to bearings produced in the U.S. During this entire period, all bearings have been properly and accurately marked with their actual country of origin, part number, and brand name, as well as a serial identification to the date and facility of manufacture. Shuster Corporation complies with all applicable marking requirements for imported bearings, and has never intentionally mislabeled bearings with a false country of origin marking under any circumstances."

The BICC is pleased with Shuster's cooperation in this matter, and sets a precedent to other bearing companies to conciliate grievances.

9 November 2009
Bearing Manufacturers Obligation to Dealer and End-User

The risks involved with bearing contraband supply chain particularly dealing in Counterfeit, relabeling or deceptive change from original country of origin, appear to becoming more prevalent in certain markets with little notice to the end-user.

Discussions & statements by some Bearing Manufacturers into Counterfeit control appear self styled to gain a marketing advantage, rather than tackling the issue collectively without either propping up themselves or that of a cartel looking group, avoiding any form of regulation.

A case involving the BICC and a disgruntled bearing corporation when challenged on the validity of country of origin and labeling, was advised of well documented legislation relating to the ‘Consumer & Competition Trade 1974 act’ that simply states: “Shall not mislead or deceive consumers in relation to products, or likely to mislead or deceive”

This legal obligation relating to the Bearing Industry largely applies in the latter wording; “or likely to mislead or deceive”

Another case in point involving the Austrian company ‘NKE Bearings Steyr Austria’; they package bearings manufactured in India or China, their labelling clearly states “NKE Bearings Steyr Austria’. NKE maintain because their office & warehouse is located in Steyr Austria allows their re-boxed bearing to be so labeled, an obvious violation to the Trade act latter statement; “or likely to mislead or deceive”

This situation has set a ‘bearing precedent’ with several new so-called brands doing the same tricks without any knowledge or obligation to written Law designed to protect the unwitting end-user or consumer.

30 October 2009
Outsourcing Bearing Production Cannot be Changed

The SAE International Group that has over 10,000 gazetted Standards, last month conducted a Committee meeting for the Outsourcing of Production for a 'Bearing Manufacturer' and the variation to what is described as a 'Brand of Bearing'

Extracts from this meeting states as follows :-

SAE AIRFRAME CONTROL BEARING GROUP
MONTRÉAL QUÉBEC, CANADA
22-24 September 2009

Bearing Industry Code of Conduct

Outsourcing of Production for Bearings

Jimmie Mathis - Chief Bearing Engineer, Committee Chairman of SAE ACBG

Outsourcing of work traditionally conducted by the bearing manufacturer is being considered for outsourcing at an increasing rate.

Currently accepted outsourced work includes rough machining, heat treating, and plating and we are facing new pressures to outsource.

A discussion to cover:

• What work is inherent in a bearing manufacturer?
• What can be outsourced?
• What defines a bearing manufacturer?
• What defines a bearing assembler?
• What defines a bearing importer?

The committee discussed the current requirements and that the committee was incorporating into the procurement standards critical requirements that cannot be changed.

Conclusion: Any variation to the above criteria is not acceptable and considered not conforming to specified Standards, including that of a Bearing Manufacturer.

25 October 2009
Singapore Bearings a Touch of Spice

How the days of purchasing first quality bearings & other products at cheap prices from Singapore have fallen.

With rising wages and a great quality life style including that luxury vehicle, pays the ultimate competitive advantage Singapore was once famous for.

Only a decade ago you were treated to that traditional 'Singaporean food market' lunch or dinner, but nowadays the proper done thing is to be taken out to a very plush restaurant with expensive cuisine setup with all the trappings of heaven that the taste of food is so covered that its barely recognisable.

But in reality, Singapore is now only bearing competitive with brands coming from China in disguise of a non 'Country of Origin' albeit 'false Origin' to pay for that extravagant gourmet dinner.

Bearing brands such as FBJ from China without the words 'CHINA' in fact if you google the website with its superb graphics & design there's CHINA nowhere to be seen.

Singapore for Bearing Manufacturers was the perfect centre point for servicing the Far East surrounding Countries, but those expenses equivalent to any other OECD country is no longer the cheaper option.

However, for Singapore bearing traders who could never rely on its own soil to sell product, must add high margins to survive an overly competitive market place throughout the Asian region with at times, inferior quality product.

22 October 2009
Split Spherical Bearings Sign of the Future

Recent press releases about ‘Split’ Bearings have stimulated hi-tech discussions especially from the Mining Industry, including Germanys SANDVIK Equipment GmbH.

From well applied Cooper Split Cylindrical Roller Bearings, now other EU manufacturers FAG and ZKL are producing the Split Spherical Roller Bearings for critical applications in various sizes, both standard & non standard mostly for large Excavators.

This is a big breakthrough for maintenance scheduling and breakdowns as down time could be now a thing of the past.

The Czech bearing manufacturer ZKL goes one step further, they now produce apart from Split Sphericals & Cylindricals, the Split Ball Bearing covering a complete range for low cost maintenance and breakdown procedures.

The ability to Split any bearing contains a degree of engineering difficulty, the secret being the containment of loss of material during separation. There are many forms of a split, from a ‘frozen’ situation then a fine line crack or the more popular but expensive use of high frequency electrolyses.

Congratulations to those bearing manufacturers from Europe, it would appear a new generation of bearing design is now a reality and gaining popularity in Industry.

Comments invited.

14 October 2009
Another Attempt to Gloss Over Bearing Cartel

In the latest series of round robin Cronyism displayed by both SKF's Tom Johnstone and Schaeffler's Jürgen Geißinger, emerges another attempt by these convicted 'Price Fixers' to create a platform known as 'World Bearing Association' (WBA).

With membership dominated by SKF, Schaeffler and the Japanese, all found guilty of criminal activity from fixing prices, illegal Cartels and the fake spread of so-called counterfeit bearings to excite the public into believing their bearing brands are the only true non spurious product, comes today from the same management teams that were found guilty by a European Union Court of Law and fined a total of 19.1 Million Euros.

This so-called WBA 'cartel' contains no Transparency, Corporate Governance, Membership Register, Legal identification, Website, Contacts, Articles of Association, Rules & Regulations, By-Laws, yet they boast a fourth annual meeting in Tokyo.

To further muddy the waters, the European Bearing Manufacturers Association (FEBMA) is defunct, the Japanese Bearing Industrial Association (JBIA) has never apologised for its role in their 'Price fixing' Conviction and the American Bearing Manufacturers Association (ABMA) is dominated by SKF, Schaeffler & Japanese !

And where's the legitimate 'Code of Conduct' independent forum, away from these corrupt, illegally convicted Corporations ?

5 October 2009
Beware More Brands Making False Country of Origin

There are more Bearing brands coming on the Global market making claims of false Country of Origin to bolster their image by deceiving the Consumer and End User.

NKE Bearings Steyr Austria one creator of this phenomenon caused by a lack of transparency, took advantage by purchasing Chinese & Indian bearings then simply relabeling and placing product into a new glossy box marked “Austria” – No great engineering expertise, just simply fraud.

Today, we see a whole new breed of bearing brands doing exactly the same as NKE.

The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct will from time to time, depending on the volume of complaints, expose these fraudulent brand operators from your cooperation via our ‘Whistleblower’ link. The following table is the more notable offender.

Brand	Country Claim	Original Country of Manufacture
NKE	AUSTRIA EU	INDIA & CHINA
FBJ	JAPAN	CHINA
IBC	GERMANY	TAIWAN
VISTA	USA	CHINA
UBC	USA	CHINA
SHUSTER	USA	CHINA

20 September 2009
SAE Airframe Control Bearing Conference in Canada

The SAE-ACBG Bearing Conference will commence 22nd September 2009 for 3 days in MONTRÉAL QUÉBEC with most USA bearing manufacturers attending at the beautiful:-

'Le Centre Sheraton Montreal'
1201 Boulevard Rene-Levesque West
Montreal, QC H3B 2L7, Canada (514) 878-2000
(www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton)

The Agenda consists of regular aviation bearing issues & referrals including matters relating to the 'Bearing Industry Code of Conduct' presented by BOEING's Engineer Mr Jimmie Mathis

Jimmie Mathis will open with the recent global press release by SKF's CEO Tom Johnstone into another 'Fake' Counterfeit 30 ton bearing claim in Czech, and the fallout by releasing unfounded news articles to bolster SKF sales (1) at the expense to the Industry(2) to falsely induce fear to all critical application sections including Aerospace

For all questions about the Agenda, please call Brian at US Navy (301) 342-9378

4 September 2009
Claims and Allegations Made to BICC

We appreciate your feed back, suggestions and certain claims about our Bearing Industry.

Our 'Hotline' service is a forum for Transparency to investigate allegations of corrupt activity from the manufacturer, distributor or any individual. This service is Government backed although not mandatory, and sometimes your allegations are passed onto the appropriate legal authorities.

We request when making your allegation to leave an email address for further questioning in relation to your claim. We do not require your name, just a contact number, please.

29 August 2009
Sweden's SKF brushes off French Criticism

The world's biggest ball-bearing maker, SKF of Sweden, said it will press ahead with plans to close a factory in western France despite a leading local politician taking out a full-page advertisement in Britain's Financial Times to criticise the move stating 'SKF to cut 900 jobs'

Philippe de Villiers, the president of the General Council of the Vendee region, hit out at SKF chief executive Tom Johnstone, slamming the decision to close the factory in the town of Fontenay-le-Comte "without any warning" as "profoundly inhuman and immoral."

The President of the Bearing Industry Code of Conduct, Mr Ian McPherson also a former Politician, strongly criticised SKF & Tom Johnstone. After meeting the French Party and reminding them that Sweden's SKF had ripped-off billions of Euros from the French Government and French Industries via their criminal Price Fixing Cartel.

Mr De Villiers angrily stated SKF was "sacrificing without the slightest scruple the livelihood of employees."

However, Mr McPherson's comments were based not only on moral or ethical grounds, but more on opening up the legal system of extortion behind SKF Sweden's attitude towards the Judiciary of Europe.

McPherson added "SKF's French Cartel conviction slaps in the face of hypocrisy from reading comments by SKF Vice President Ingalill Oestman, One would think that SKF has real high moral ground towards people"

21 August 2009
ZKL Group and Brno Trade Fair 2009 in Czech

The 51st Trade Exhibition in Czech Republic 'Brno Engineering Fair'commencing 14th to 18th September 2009, has attracted a record number of International Exhibitors both European & Globally with more than 1500 displays.

- Mining, metallurgical, foundering, ceramic and glass engineering
- Materials and components for mechanical engineering
- Drives, hydraulics and pneumatics, cooling technology and air-conditioning
- Plastics, rubber technology and chemical industry
- Metal-working and forming machines, tools, surface finish, thermal treatment, welding machines
- Power engineering and heavy-current electrical engineering
- Electronics, automation and measuring technology
- Ecological technology
- Research, services, institutions

Registrations can be made from the events site: www.bw.cz

At last years Exhibition, ZKL Bearing Group won 'Gold Medal' status for innovation and design and has a huge R&D centre on display at this years event.

In conjunction with the Fair and by invitation, ZKL Bearings will conduct factory tours to visit their 'state of the art' new technology facilities.

12 August 2009
Same Old Counterfeit Bearings by Same Counterfeiters

From our BICC News article 27 June 2009 "China Made in India Counterfeits Hit the Market" and today's press release by Bruce Carr's www.ebearing.com "India's Counterfeit Bearing Problem Builds" - highlights yet another sad act of 'I told you so'

Counterfeiting as we know it, is an old act perfected by the Chinese, albeit Japanese until recent times.

And if an Industry is serious to rid of 'Counterfeit infection', then it can simply self regulate quick & easy, just ask the Electronic Industry Code of Conduct www.eicc.info

India is not the only country riddled with illegal Bearing activity, although it attracts many business opportunities for those entrepreneurial bearing badges like NKE Bearing Steyr Austria that makes a 'killing' by buying unbranded bearings from India & China, ending up on the Consumer 'diner table' labelled Made in Austria.

Then Sweden's SKF Industries and Germany's Schaeffler Group convicted of 'Price Fixing Cartel' with Japan's NSK, KOYO & SNR/NTN, what a great example to set before the global Bearing Industry.

Finally, the SKF & Schaeffler false claim to 40 tons of the infamous Counterfeit capture in Germany and more recently another miracle of 30 tons of Counterfeit bearing seizure by SKF in Czech Republic. What fools we are.

The likes of SKF and others who complain but do absolutely nothing in fear of market tolerance, have little scruples when seeking government assistance unless some kind of regulate - but not cartel.

1 August 2009
Singapore Regional Centre for Intellectual Property Disputes

From the UN WIPO headquarters, Geneva

24 March 2009
Bearing Corporate Responsibility Under Microscope

Many different industries are now setting standards to Bearing companies for compliance with ethical guidelines, materials and on environmental issues.

These contracts require a declaration from Bearing companies for proper corporate social responsibility and obligation to common law that ensures ethical behavior and credible conduct.

Bearing manufacturers accountability to this compliance is rigid and without challenge for variation, in other words all sections of the Bearing Industry are under the microscope for maximum corporate governance.

The BICC President Ian McPherson states: "The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct provides this necessary governance for compliance including that of whistleblower" adding, the failure to sign these Industry contracts or the violation of compliance will automatically cancel the right to supply". 

20 March 2009
NKE Packaging Disguises Counterfeit Product

NKE brand or should be 'NKE packaging' and their Directors are Europe's biggest Counterfeiter.

The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct has reported in various news updates how NKE from Steyr Austria re-labels, re-badges, falsifies bearings by purchasing from India, China, old surplus stock and from various 3rd world countries then packaged into glossy boxes printed :- "NKE BEARINGS STEYR AUSTRIA"

NKE has rooted the bearing system and managed to gain support by unscrupulous bearing dealers who claim to the consumer that NKE bearings are made in Austria Europe stating "NKE Premium quality as good as SKF"

Having exposed NKE activities with hard evidence, NKE has every legal right to prosecute if they are maligned by the 'Bearing Industry Code of Conduct' and its management for writing defamatory articles, including this one. And we are still waiting.

If you stock, buy or sell NKE packaging type counterfeit bearings then you're contributing to one of the worst type of deception, namely Counterfeit fraud.

16 March 2009
Schaeffler-SKF Counterfeit Lawyer Finally Found
Further investigations into the Schaeffler-SKF fake counterfeit catch continue to uncover more outrageous claims.

The lawyer acting for Schaeffler & SKF claims the directors of BATUCOM Kugellager GdbR Erlangen Germany were the "criminals" having imported more than 40 tonnes of spurious bearings into Europe. However, it appears BATUCOM knows nothing and documents suggest very little importation of bearings were ever made nor any legal charges against company directors.

Its like a sequence from 'Hogans Heros' when Sgt. Schultz says: "I know nothing"

Strangely, this same Schaeffler/SKF lawyer has somewhat gone into hiding and was revealed last week to be professionally employed with Kanzlei.FSR in Erlangen the same location in Germany as the accused, what a coincidence.

12 March 2009
How Amazing Bearing Boxes Brings Big Bucks

Have you ever heard the saying "A picture means a thousand words" ?
 
This is how 'NKE Bearings Steyr Austria' manufacture product.
 
NKE AUSTRIA buys bearing product from 3rd world country.....
 
NKE AUSTRIA change boxes & wipes clean to sell his...

 
Note the packaging states " NKE Steyr Austria" Bearings have no country of Origin or Branding
 

 

8 March 2009
Re-Labelled Bearings are Owner Onus to All Dealers

As with all counterfeit or re-labelled products, the legal obligation extends throughout the total chain of distribution.
 
In other words, bearing distributors big or small marketing fake or re-labelled bearings are jointly and severally involved with their producers in legal proceedings.
 
A case in point:
 
(1) NKE Steyr Austria have bearings made in India and China re-labelled then sold to distributors for consumer resale in high gloss packaging with the spin 'Made in Austria' first premium product.
 
(2) NKE Steyr Austria claim to manufacture bearings for planetary gears in wind turbine gearboxes, railway traction motor bearings and special types for world pump producers. All these bearings are imported from India and China packaged 'NKE Bearings Steyr Austria'
 
In these scenarios, the Re-labeller 'NKE' together with the distributor supplying to producers of wind turbine gearboxes, traction motors and Pumps could become jointly involved with any class action should the consumer with or without warranty decides to prosecute.
 

1 March 2009
Beware of Wash-up Involving Bankruptcy

It is interesting to note comments about the recent downfall of corporate institutions and their highflying executives.
 
These failed executives all have a common thread known as greed, made from their devious schemes to extract funding by foul and fraudulent means. These schemes become more apparent close to their final demise and appear in all newspapers.
 
However, criminal charges involving heavy jail sentences are inevitable to these highfliers for the sake of public scrutiny and in the name of Law.
 
The latest scheme coming from the Schaeffler family to avoid the inevitable loss of control, caused by the exact same greed, may involve criminal charges especially having prior convictions of 'Price fixing cartel' with their collaborator SKF and further allegations of counterfeit deception simply known as fraud.
 
And in the wash-up all executives from these companies are put on notice to provide statements or subpoenaed to Court during all Bankruptcy hearings.
 

21 February 2009
Why German Governments Should Donate to Schaeffler

There are many authentic reasons why working class people without jobs should claim social benefits from Western Governments in particular that of Germany.
 
Photos taken last week of Maria Schaeffler (www.zimbio.com then insert Maria Schaeffler or google) at a 'Audi' socialite function in the Austrian Alps, bearing her 85,000 euro mink fur coat obviously having a bad hair day.
 
Understandably, Maria looks quite concerned and worried at the prospect of going bankrupt but as we know the German state and federal governments will donate free of charge her social benefit 4.3 Billion euro bailout.
 
The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct dares to suggest that an alternative to government spending can be arranged :- Banks appoint a receiver, sell separately as going concerns Continental, INA, FAG and LUK to the highest bidder in the business world, maintain jobs, and allow the financial vultures to get the 30 billion euros or so from Maria Schaefflers nest egg.
 
And, maybe notify Legal authorities to acknowledge prior criminal convictions with SKF to boot.
 

15 February 2009
Sweden's Hallvarsson appoints CSR Phd. for SKF conviction response

The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct has received correspondence from Sweden's high profile corporate monitor Hallvarsson and Hallvarsson regarding the award given to SKF for good corporate social responsibility whilst been convicted and penalized by a European Court of Law.
 
Sweden's Mr. Martin Peterson, CEO of Hallvarsson states the head of regulator CSR Phd. Tommy Borglund will address this contentious matter about SKF.
 
Global monitor for transparency and corporate governance, Development Gateway Foundation who advises various governments has responded adding a very strange situation when a known corporate violator SKF receives a good corporate award that could compromise the Judicial system.
 
Further, SKF and Schaeffler group are also involved with fake counterfeit fraud allegations that SKF CEO Mr. Tom Johnstone refuses to comment.
 

6(1) February 2009
SKF Excludes Illegal Convictions

From a recent article "Corporate Social Responsibility", SKF claims best Swedish company ranking by Halvarrsson.
 
The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct is highly concerned with this propaganda, it appears Halvarrsson does not consider illegal conduct as a requirement for such Social Responsibility.
 
SKF has been convicted for 'Price Fixing' by a EU Court of Law having being found guilty ripping vast amounts of money from governments and private companies, with the assistance of Schaeffler and others.
 
The total fines to this SKF scam was 19.1 million euros, the second largest penalty handed down by a EU Court
 
SKF has also fostered the Counterfeit Bearing trade by making false claims and global accusations, again benefiting mega millions of Euros with Maria Schaeffler.
 
Will Halvarrsson revoke this award from SKF and others for criminal behaviour ?
 

2(1) February 2009
Schaeffler's Last Stand

State Governments in Germany were not impressed with Schaeffler's financial position, demanding a detailed 'Business Plan' before any negotiations for Schaefflers requested 4 Billion Euro bailout, it was revealed last Friday.
 
Maria Scaheffler's press statement to Government was based on her "unawareness of a pending global downturn in the Auto Industry and no indication of a looming global financial crisis in her pursuit to acquire Continental."
 
Maria's comments appear difficult to understand and conflict with known facts and forecasts at the time of Schaefflers move for a hostile bid to a Auto manufacturer already hurting.
 
The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct issued a press release July 2008 and many others to follow, warning Schaeffler of current problems within the Auto Industry and the bad effect this could happen to the Bearing Industry.
 
Furthermore since last July, the BICC has been involved with various communications with the Board of Continental Group after constant refusal from Schaefflers Board to conciliate, this effort was in vain fearing an inevitable collapse. Is it now too late?

2 February 2009
ZKL Bearings the New image of Modern Europe

Amidst the current global financial crisis, a new look ZKL BEARINGS from Prague, Czech Republic has defied pundits by increasing its production and making long term investments into new regions.
 
From the long running legal dispute into branding rights and intellectual property of 'ZKL' now resolved in Prague's favour, all ZKL factories are now controlled by the same Board of Directors who are free to exercise  funding arrangements from technical infrastructure to marketing on a grand scale.
 
The Czech Republic the new home for the "President of the European Union" has gained valuable recognition and soon to become Europe's most modern and industrial 'status' attracting foreign investments worldwide.
 
The BICC is very glad to report this refreshing change from today's doom and gloom atmosphere.

 

27 January 2009
German Government Requested to Save Schaeffler

The much publicised Schaefflers acrimonious acquisition of Continental, the German Government must now consider requests to bailout both Schaeffler and Continental Groups. Continental shares are now officially marked down to 'worst junk bond' status from 75 Euros to yesterdays DAX close at 14 Euros.

The total indebtedness is a staggering 34 Billion Euros (US$42 Billion) made up from 12 Billion in loans to Schaeffler with many Billions to crystallize, Continentals 11 Billion and a further 11 Billion loan for the outstanding VDO auto takeover.
 
With Unions demanding unity, 165,000 workers totally disillusioned & extremely concerned for their future, auto sales down and out, boardroom directors in public mayhem, banks at risk with Schaefflers exposure and no conciliatory process to resolve these major issues, why should Tax Payer funds bailout greedy & corrupt people like Schaeffler to continue living the 'high life' ?
 
The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct again states: " SKF & Schaefflers recent known criminal behaviour with other matters and tax payers money now required to prop up the industry, its highly conceivable global perception will mark the bearing floor price down further"
 
 

17 January 2009
Concerns for Bearing Industry Direction
 
The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct has been highly critical towards the corrupt activity of SKF and Schaeffler, however there's an even greater concern on the horizon.
 
Firstly, the SKF-Schaeffler 'Price Fixing Cartel' conviction without apologising for ripping mega millions from global customers and more recently the 'Schweinfurt catch' Fake counterfeit fraud, currently under review by governing criminal prosecutors. Coupled with Schaefflers takeover of the Continental Group now in free-fall from 75 Euros to 19 Euros a share translating into a massive loss that could break banks and other financial institutions from lending to the Schaeffler family, an unprecedented fallout.
 
Secondly, the severe downturn in the Automotive Industry caused by global warming, oil shortage, credit crunch etc. with people opting for public transport. And now with Thompsons Reuters report on the Industrial industry in decline illustrated by Timken and Kaydon shares losing ground.
 
Thirdly, China's diminishing capacity for the thirst of commodities, Japan daunting double digit Recession, global population doubles over 15 years, world banks in turmoil and trading futures no where to go.
 
The Boards of Bearing Corporations should take notice of these pending demographics and if necessary replace those Directors responsible for known illegal activity, speculative behaviour and corporate greed to a more conciliatory attitude to cope with current global concerns.
 

15 January 2009
SAE Airframe Control Bearing Group Conference April 28-30, Las Vegas USA
 
Information is now available for the next SAE Bearing Conference and Committee meetings:
 
ACBG General Bearing Conference
ACBG Airframe Control Bearings Group Committee
ACBG Rolling Element Bearing Subcommittee
ACBG Plain Bearing Subcommittee
 
The meeting will be held in Las Vegas, United States on April 28 - 30, 2009.
 
You may access the meeting information at:
 
http://www.sae.org/servlets/works/committeeHome.do?comtID=TEAACBGREB
 
Members, Non Members and Bearing Public are now invited to register.
 
If you have any questions please contact your SAE or BICC Representative.
 
Sincerely
 
The SAE Standards Works.
The Bearing Industry Code of
Conduct

18 December 2008
 
SKF-Schaeffler Quiet to Alleged Multi Million Fraud

The fake counterfeit bearing marketing campaign over the past 18 months netting multi million Euros to SKF-Schaeffler at the expense of other manufacturers and distributors worldwide appears stalled by the exposure and denial with each party accusing the other.
 
The so-called “Schweinfurt catch” by SKF-Schaeffler has serious legal and moral issues to contend, leaving behind confusion with counterfeiting.
 
The President of the ‘Bearing Industry Code of Conduct’, Mr. Ian McPherson states:
 
“Counterfeiting in any industry is most difficult and time consuming task to combat and control,
but to be victim of a deliberate and deceptive act of fake counterfeit marketing that done by SKF-Schaeffler is a cruel and cowardly act of fraud”
 
China and India are heavily scrutinised for counterfeiting seemingly contained to isolated types fairly easily detected. The “Schweinfurt catch” contained thousands of different types and sizes nearly
impossible to comprehend.
 

3 December 2008

Counterfeit Reward Exposes Major Marketing Manipulation

Results from August $50,000 reward for counterfeit bearings indicate a huge decline in reported offences globally, and the seriousness of  marketing manipulation by major bearing manufacturers.

The BICC research has concluded SKF and SCHAEFFLER jointly masterminded an elaborate scheme to gain a valuable marketing advantage by installing fear of Counterfeit Bearings. In 2007, SKF-SCHAEFFLER launched a massive global press release with the 'burning' of bearings and the 'so called' raid to 40 tons of counterfeit product worth more than 8 million Euro, found just around the corner from Schweinfurt, Germany by a no-named distributor with no-named directors and no-named legal proceedings.

The press release as shown below was captured by various newspapers & industry magazines and circulated worldwide now appearing as a marketing tool by SKF and distributors in USA.

These bearings were not counterfeit, but unsoiled unused product setting off alarm bells to critical industries such as Aerospace and many other precision application corporations & worldwide organisations, blaming countries eg. CHINA & INDIA for this counterfeit activity.

Establishment of the Bearing Industry Code of Conduct primarily focused on eliminating improper conduct such as Counterfeit or Spurious Bearings and other illegal activity including 'Price Fixing Cartels'. SKF & SCHAEFFLER who control a major share of the bearing industry has maintained that illegal operations were solely confined to ASIA, however its now discovered such covert operations were initiated and conducted in GERMANY and SWEDEN.

15 November 2008
Porsche Rejects Schaefflers Offer for Continental Shares

Immediately after yesterdays final approval for Schaeffler's Continental buyout, the Schaeffler group in its endeavour to seek partners to rid of financial crisis, received a sharp jolt from German sports car manufacture Porsche stating a definite 'not interested' to buy a stake in Continental AG.
 
Porsche having its own problems, is facing serious risk of 'reverse' takeover by VW.
 
Furthermore, Porsche's method to acquire VW, the same methodology employed by Schaeffler for Continental with undisclosed accumulation of shares, is a legal & political issue that may require German Government intervention.
 
In a show of unity, the Bearing Industry Code of Conduct approves Schaefflers efforts to reduce its liability to debt and minimising the chance of a Continental reverse takeover of Schaeffler's family group.
 
 
 

12 November 2008
Germany Considers More Transparency After Schaefflers Manipulation

Germany is considering banning the undisclosed accumulation of shares in listed companies through options trading and boost transparency on its financial markets, the German Finance Ministry said on Monday.
 
The Financial Times Deutschland had cited unnamed politicians in Chancellor Angela Merkel's left-right coalition as saying investors would by early next year have to register transactions made via options and derivatives contracts.
 
It is the second time in just a few months that the rules have been questioned. In July, ballbearing maker Schaeffler amassed 36 percent of Continental AG (Xetra: 543900 - news) using credit derivatives that had been arranged discreetly by its banks.
 
The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct opposed Schaefflers motives and claimed their actions as illegal, citing a breach to the 'act' and against the interests of the Bearing Industry in general.
 
In the meantime, CONTINENTAL AG shares continue to slide 'southbound' with todays price at 29.00 euro whilst Schaeffler must pay the agreed 75.00, making a record loss of 25.5 Billion euros to Schaeffler family in 3 months.
 
 

5 November 2008
Its Think Again For Maria Schaeffler

For reasons long known to the Auto Industry coupled with the global financial meltdown, Continental Group shares have slipped from the very generous Schaeffler buy at 75.00 Euros now hovering at 30.00 Euros, effectively placing the Schaeffler family at risk of 'technical insolvency'.
 
With Schaeffler's main banker 'Royal Bank of Scotland' going bust and the sacking of its CEO, now in fully effective control by the UK Government, all previous banking promises are cancelled including that made with Schaeffler.
 
The paper loss by Schaeffler is now approximate 22 Billion Euros and if forced to crystallise will impact on the entire Bearing Industry.

28 October 2008
Last Continent to Outlaw Cartels

Australia to adopt similar federal laws as other continents for Price Fixing Cartel Agreements.
 
Corporate cheats now face up to 10 years jail bringing Australia in line with the US as the
highest jail term in the world for cartel activity.
 
The Bearing Industry of Conduct in its submission to government stated "Cartels harm consumers, businesses and the economy, by companies fixing prices or reducing choice or distorting the ordinary processes of competition"
 
The BICC submission, mainly generated from the price fixing Cartel guilty verdict of SKF, Schaeffler, NSK, KOYO, SNR-NTN by the French Court.
 
Furthermore, the SKF spokesperson claimed an appeal would be lodged against the
19.1 Million Euros penalty, however the appeal lapsed without any of the guilty bearing manufacturers apologising. A Class Action is pending subject to legal argument.
  

26 October 2008
Cycle of Bribery Against Regulation

When something goes wrong we all want someone to blame.
 
If a medical process goes wrong we blame the doctors, if a bridge collapses we blame
the engineers, if an amusement ride falls over we blame the bearing and proceed to court for revenge and compensation.
 
The global financial system is grinding into a 'shock disbelief  tsunami' and many experts are blaming former US treasurer Alan Greenspan for refusing to legislate a Code of Conduct but stating markets will self regulate. We all believed good times would just roll on and on.
 
The Bearing Industry now behind times and without wanting to regulate by the major manufacturers against a backdrop of demand, may now realistically see an Industry 'tsunami' if it remains in constant denial.

22 October 2008
BICC to Release Valuable Site Statistics

The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct has gathered important statistical information from its website viewings.
 
With over 100 Countries viewing 'bearingcode.com' from Bearing manufacturers, distributors, governments, law agencies and related corporations, the BICC can now focus with a degree of accuracy what the Bearing market is requiring and how it views issues from the website.
 
This information will be released shortly as a news item and will be transparent with results.
 

20 October 2008
Aerospace Standards Spokesperson Opportunity

The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct is assisting the SAE International Aerospace Standards in seeking volunteers to be spokespersons on SAE's behalf for newsworthy industry issues related to the technology of their committees.
 
Technical engineering experience is a necessary requirement for this prestige position.
 
Should you be interested in volunteering for this role, SAE Corporate
Communications staff will provide detailed guidance on how to respond to the media on
issues -- including "dos and don'ts".
 
Should you be interested, please respond affirmatively to: info@bearingcode.com
 

6 October 2008
WTO Rules of Origin Meeting for Bearing Industry

The next WTO meeting for Country of Origin Rules is scheduled for Thursday October 9 at 10.00am Geneva, Switzerland.
 
If you are interested to attend or to make joint submissions, kindly advise your details as quickly as possible.
 
The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct will present to WTO findings on streamline Rules for Country Identification. In short, the BICC requires to regulate markings or stampings the same for bearings to that of Package Labelling.
 
In other words, a mandatory Country of Origin stamping on Bearings to read the same on Packaging, Labels and Boxing.
 
This is particularly important for Consumers to assist in the protection against Counterfeiting & Private Labelling operators.

29 September 2008
Germany & France Agree to More Transparency, Better Standards

 The President of France, right winger Nicolas Sarkozy declared that "laissez-faire is over" and German Chancellor, the conservative Angela Merkel, said: "It was said for a long time, 'let markets take care of themselves'. " But now "even America and Britain are saying, 'Yes, we need more transparency, we need better Standards"'

Now Every Industry is on notice, as we watch financial institutions dropping like flies at the moment, where recently, great towers rose in the air, full of people doing terribly important jobs, moving mind-boggling sums of money around, we now find rows of empty desks. That's the world we now live in, it appears rock solid, its actually shaky and flaky.

Prominent UK spokesman from Canterbury Robin Williams, added a liturgical flavour by saying that an excess of faith in markets had become a kind of "idolatry" holding that markets are self-correcting is false.
 
The global Bearing Industry is part of this blind fault line, operating without a regulatory authority to monitor transparency & behaviour standards. Many acts of such impropriety has already been listed on this site.
 
As a result from this Financial meltdown, world leaders will be sympathetic for regulating Codes without the fear of overreaction, in response to current trauma. 

16 September 2008
Bearing To Blame For Accident, Manager Says
Goteborg Sweden Theme Park Ride Collapse Injures 30
 
A theme park ride collapsed in Goteborg Sweden, injuring 30 people, emergency officials said.
 
A spokeswoman for Sweden’s national emergency response unit, Monika Grandin, said two of those on the ride were seriously hurt in the accident at the Liseberg theme park, one of the primary tourist attractions in Sweden.
 
The ride was full at the time, Grandin said, adding that 25 ambulances had been sent to the scene.
 
The manager on duty at the park, Petr Andersson, said it appeared the accident was caused by a malfunctioning ball bearing.
 
The amusement park’s website describes the Ride as "a gravity defying flying carpet." There are dozens of similar rides at parks and travelling carnivals all over the world.
 
For complete details:
www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/07/15/world/main4263027.shtml
 
The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct requested Goteborg's Theme Park final report into this accident and blame may or may not be bearing related. However, parents taking children for theme park rides deserve guarantees that machinery/bearings are governed by Ethical Standards & Materials.
 
(In 2005, the U.S. Consumer Safety Products commission said it had received more than 15,000 reports of injuries of all sorts at amusement parks)
 

11 September 2008
Presentations, Operations & Advantages by the Bearing Industry Code of
Conduct

To take advantage from 'non biased' global Bearing knowledge either for marketing, latest upgrades with legal, political & technical opinions and general commercial experience, your Company Group or Association can arrange a highly informative Presentation by the Bearing Industry Code of Conduct to most countries.
 
Your enquiry is welcomed to: info@bearingcode.com

9 September 2008
Global Hotspot to $50,000 Counterfeit Bearings

The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct received global calls to the $50,000 reward for counterfeiting from both inside & outside the Bearing Industry, including many Industrial Magazines eg. 'Purchasing.com' & 'Congoo.com'
 
The BICC sincerely thanks this overwhelming response and those who requested further details to 'marketing advantages' in fake advertising of Counterfeit bearing claims.
 
Many email enquiries centred on how the $50,000 can be applied.
 
The BICC in a serious attempt to clean-up the issue of 'Counterfeit Bearings' again states a Conviction by an OECD Court of Law must be first established, for the record the following Countries are accredited:
 
OECD MEMBER COUNTRIES
 
AUSTRALIA, AUSTRIA, BELGIUM, CANADA, CZECH REPUBLIC, DENMARK, FINLAND, FRANCE, GERMANY, GREECE, HUNGARY, ICELAND, IRELAND, ITALY, JAPAN, KOREA, LUXEMBOURG, MEXICO, NETHERLANDS, NEW ZEALAND, NORWAY, POLAND, PORTUGAL, SLOVAK REPUBLIC, SPAIN, SWEDEN, SWITZERLAND, TURKEY, UNITED KINGDOM & UNITED STATES.
 
For additional information email: info@bearingcode.com

8 September 2008
India Bearing Manufacturers Respond to Private Labelling
 
From August news on Private labels & product liability, the Bearing Industry Code of Conduct received positive responses from Bearing Manufacturers in RAJKOT INDIA stating they do not endorse 'Private Labelling' by NKE Bearings Steyr Austria.
 
One RAJKOT manufacturer confessed they produce taper rollers eg. LM12749 & L68146 for "NKE" but not labelled "Made in Austria Steyr" with export custom documentation clearly identified as "Made in INDIA RAJKOT"
 
However, these same bearings as shown to BICC are clearly labelled Austria Steyr. the Indians completely deny this process.
 
Another Bearing Manufacturer from the same district in India told BICC they refuse to sign any agreement with NKE as they demand "Made in Austria" or no country of origin.
 
What is not known, when NKE Bearings Steyr Austria re-exports these bearings from Europe to USA or Australia or to other countries, does the customs documentation state "Made in Austria" as
labelled on the bearing or packaging ?
 
NKE refused to respond to these questions.
 
False customs declaration to 'country of manufacturer' carry heavy penalties including jail to both exporter & buyer.
 

28 August 2008

SAE Aerospace Standards – BICC London Announcement

SAE Aerospace Standards is pleased to announce the significant global strengthening of SAE’s Standards Program in Europe. 

Keely Andrews will be joining SAE staff as our Europe Standards Administrator located in SAE’s Aerospace Standards Europe Office in London. Keely brings a number of qualities to the position including a BA from the University of Hertfordshire, a fluency in French and business German, and a high degree of customer orientation. 

The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct is discussing the merits of moving into the same premises and requires a suitable applicant with bearing knowledge & preferably BA/LLB in Law.

The SAE office is located in Central London just off Baker Street at 1,York Street, London, W1U 6PA, United Kingdom.

The Aerospace Standards Europe facility provides numerous opportunities to expand our standards program including:

       Establish and promote SAE International and Aerospace Standards program in Europe

       Build relationships with European Aerospace organizations, SDO’s and companies

       Identify new opportunities for SAE standards

       Involve SAE in European standards harmonization/development

       Support activities of technical committees and increase number of meetings in Europe

       Increase European participation on SAE technical committees

The BICC is preparing the formation of a SAE G20 technical committee to fulfill operations, making recommendations & referrals for bearing standards. The London based office will provide a valuable platform for future communications.

22 August 2008

Private Brands Bigger Risk than Counterfeiting

The BICC has reported many times the risks involved with Distributors dealing in Private Brands and the non-disclosure of ‘Country of Origin’

Private brands or Private Labels are now growing trends for dealers who see a greater profit from buying unbranded 3^rd world bearings, then a name change to a ‘Private Bin’ sold as 1^st quality.

NKE Bearings Steyr Austria is your typical example of a Private brand, marketing or referred as “Austria Steyr” can camouflage any 3^rd world country of origin with a sophisticated Private Label or so called re-branding.

Many legal risks, possibly greater than Counterfeit bearings are associated with taking on a manufacturing role, none more than 'Product Liability'

In a recent article cleverly written by Lindsay Young for the PTDA, outlines the legal consequences with Joint and Several Liability putting the dealer & private label operator as one in any Legal Proceedings.

For more information on the danger of Private Labels and Counterfeiting click 

http://www.ptda.org/Content/NavigationMenu/MarketTrends/Spotlight/MDM_Changing_Face_Li.htm

or

info@bearingcode.com

21 August 2008

Schaeffler Secures Deal with Continental

The Schaeffler Group today successfully concluded a long drawn-out deal with the Continental Corporation at a level of 75 Euros per share limited to 49.99 per-cent of Continental’s capital.

Schaeffler declined to take 50% and full control of Continental, due to Bankers requirement for Schaeffler to accept the total debt liability placing at risk a mountain size funding arrangement.

A good result for most concerned and places a lesser responsibility on the Bearing Manufacturer.

The biggest fallout from this deal is the forced resignation of Continental’s CEO Mr. Wennemer.

Mr. Wennemer, 60, took over as Continental’s CEO in September 2001 and used the VDO acquisition to transform the tyremaker into a car-parts supplier second only to Robert Bosch GmbH.

He called Schaeffler's share swaps illegal and said on July 16 that the approach was ``egoistic, high-handed and irresponsible.''  Mr. Wennemer is to leave the company by Aug. 31, and a successor will be appointed in the ``immediate future,'' Continental said.

The departure is ``logical'' and testimony to Wennemer's character, statement by Rober Halver head of research at Baader Bank in Frankfurt. Still, the departing chief is ``the loser in this deal if you want to find one,'' he said

15 August 2008

Takeover Bid Now in Rethink at 8 percent

Schaeffler’s battle to take control of the Continental Corporation has been diluted to a single digit.

The Bearing manufacturer confirmed it owns 8 percent of Continental shares with an option to increase now considered unlikely leaving the 28 percent ‘swaps’ as an illegal contravention of reporting and notification requirements.

Renowned university professor Dr. Mathias Habersack, Chairman of Civil, Commercial, Business and Corporate Law and Board member of the Banking Law Association in Germany has stated the methods used by Schaeffler as a clear infringement of provisions of the German Securities Trading Act.

Further legal advices, states the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority can in this case impose not only fines, but take more stringent action against Schaeffler to nullify the illegal actions that are so damaging to the market, but also prevent Schaeffler reaping benefits from its illegal methods.

CEO Mr. Geissinger has 2 weeks to rethink Schaefflers awkward situation whilst Continental appears quite content to move on with its daily operations.

Little wonder Mr. Geissinger is in a hurry to complete a deal with Continental by raising its offer to 75 euros a share to maybe 80 euros. What price for self pride, and will banks agree to increase the size of exposure against an Auto market in decline?

However, this will not resolve the legal appointment Schaeffler has with German Securities Authority, any deal with Continental’s CEO Mr. Wennemer now appears premature.

Schaeffler in further Rethink today stated it could sell all 8 percent of Continental shares to the market after the bid ends 27 August 2008, leaving behind a fallout of considerable magnitude.

6 August 2008

Counterfeit Bearings Attracts $50,000 Reward

With continuing non substantiated claims of counterfeit bearings, and used as marketing gimmicks & scare tactics from manufacturers particularly Germany & Japan, the Bearing Industry Code of Conduct has decided to offer a maximum US$50,000 for every Counterfeit Bearing trafficker convicted in an OECD Court of Law.

The US$50,000 reward is a genuine attempt by BICC to flush out fake advertising & fancy marketing campaigns and bring closure as to where Counterfeit Bearings, in such large numbers actually come from and who is benefiting. 

The OECD Magistrate or Judge will adjudicate who receives the US$50,000, upon successful conviction, naming of the corporation & supply base, its executives, the amount and bearing sizes involved.

For further information contact info@bearingcode.com

2 August 2008

Schaeffler Should Reconsider Continental Plunge

If you believed every newspaper and expert opinion on Schaeffler’s bid for Continental in particular ‘Auto Magazines’ and friends at Porsche, the takeover is a completed deal - then stop, think again & maybe you’ll reconsider.

Apart from Maria Schaeffler having little remaining cash reserves with deep pockets relying on its creditors & banks to prop the Continental offer, there are 3 questionable issues for Continental shareholders to have a drink over.

Product Compatibility:

Schaeffler is not renowned for automotive Taper Roller Bearings particularly front & rear wheels.

Continental’s insignia product for OEM or Replacement aftermarket is primarily Tyres, making way for conflicting interests or at the expense of a taper roller expert with the likes of TIMKEN, the Japanese or dare mention Chinese.

If Schaeffler’s idea in obtaining Continental shares to bolster tapers then with current competition & global auto downturn, what assistance can Schaeffler give to Continental?  Its ‘think again’ 

Debt Ratio & Exposure

If Schaeffler’s bid for Continental is successful, the combine service debt will be 31 Billion Euros or over US$50 Billion most people cannot write this amount.

Any top financial guru or consultancy corporation will advise to re-advise this exposure and highly doubtful they would approve. For Schaeffler to use the ‘Porsche’ model for the takeover of Volkswagen is a different criterion, Schaeffler doesn’t make Cars or Tyres.

Banks are misled if receiving 4% is an acceptable income for shuffling their numbers, or are there other reasons to the layman or existing shareholder not fully transparent? Its ‘think again’

 Plunge at your Peril 

It now appears Schaeffler has no grand takeover plan in its approach to Continental.

From day one we were told of a ‘hostile’ takeover, why?

Not only does this look sloppy, but the use of the word ‘professional’ escapes..

What was the problem of corporate discussions between these two over a few months, finding out each other differences, pros & cons, and if all else fails then declare ‘war’. It takes time especially for such a big event for shareholders to reasonably comprehend.

Understandable, Continental has put up the shutters and will no doubt raise many critical constructive issues as to why shareholders should ignore Schaeffler’s stance. And each day is costing mega millions for the money already committed. 

Its ‘think again’ for Maria to reconsider.

31 July 2008

US Judge Angry at Price Fixing Cartel

A Judge has expressed his frustration that top executives will escape penalties over a Price Fixing Cartel that cost airlines $1.25 billion.

Qantas Airlines employee Bruce McCaffrey got a lighter-than-expected sentence at the US District Court in Washington yesterday for his role in a conspiracy to eliminate competition. 

US District Court Judge John D Bates said: “It does bother the court that the most responsible from his company will never face these kinds of consequences.”

McCaffrey’s lawyers claimed he was only following the orders of “corporate higher-ups” as they were the real decision makers over 15 years.

The ball bearing price fixing cartel that commenced early 1990s and convicted by the French Authorities in 2002, contains the same hallmarks as the Airlines.

If civil & further criminal proceedings now commence in the US District Court, companies including SCHAEFFLER & SKF will need to nominate people within their ranks - or will the District Court Judge step in and order the CEO’s of each corporation to stand trial ?

29 July 2008

German Corporate Hangover

Inc extracts UK- FT

German commercial culture was once obsessed with maintaining a harmonious relationship with politicians, unions and domestic competitors. This seems to be changing, with German companies now increasingly prepared to mount hostile bids against rivals. Or is it ?

Krupp set the ball rolling more than a decade ago with its unsolicited approach to Thyssen. But ultimately the two sides agreed to a friendly merger. A couple of years ago Merck launched a hostile bid for Schering, and that ended with a friendly merger between Schering and Bayer.

Now Schaeffler is putting pressure on Continental after secretly securing 36 per cent of the shares in its rival. Continental was not amused and has told Schaeffler its offer is too low. But it also seems prepared to negotiate with the enemy.

So the chances are that this deal too will follow what is becoming a trend in corporate Germany of getting friendly through hostile bids, although this time around, Schaeffler’s ‘Price Fixing Convictions’ and other dubious corporate behavior must be considered by Continental shareholders, directors and unions alike.

The politicians do not seem bothered by this growing consolidation of German industry. So long, that is, as it is conducted by German companies and does not involve foreign predators. The country still seems to be suffering from the hangover of the one and only large successful foreign bid for a German corporate icon – Vodafone’s takeover of Mannesmann eight years ago.

Imagine if a foreign predator had built up creeping control of either Continental, as Schaeffler has done, or Volkswagen, as Porsche has done. There would have been a political OUTCRY. 

15 July 2008
Bearing Industry Vulnerable to Schaeffler & Continental
 
In a bold, but high risk decision to buy Continental Tyres by Maria Schaeffler places huge pressure on the global bearing market.
 
The Schaeffler Group over recent years has not been the good corporate citizen, obtaining criminal conviction for ‘Price fixing cartel’ by the French Courts with the fallout of Civil proceedings set to roll both in Europe & USA and the prospect of DPP legal proceedings into ‘False & Misleading’ advertising to create additional market share.
 
In a letter circulated by Schaeffler Group June 2008, requesting all deliveries of raw materials must cease due to a crisis of over supply in Schweinfurt, placed a financial burden on there creditors but a financial gain of approx. $1 billion to the coffers of Schaeffler. The BICC knew there was something odd brewing and to the detriment of main stream Bearing business.
 
The Bearing Industry is not a huge business like many others, and Continental Tyres is outside the parameters of lending support. There could be only one logic wisdom in any hostile takeover, greed.
 
The BICC is against any takeover of ‘outside’ bearing business of this magnitude as cash funds required is a total drain to every business reliant to the Ball & Roller Bearing Industry.
 
It is hoped the Royal Bank of Scotland understands the game play with Continental and former corrupt ways Schaeffler has incorporated in the past. This high risk takeover makes an Industry more vulnerable in an already uncertain Bearing world.

11 July 2008

SAE-ACBG Bearing Conference Sept 23-25 2008
At BOEING - Everett WA. USA

September’s SAE-ACBG Bearing Conference & group committee meeting will be a Sponsored event by an obvious attraction with the likelihood of record numbers registering.

Attending will be representatives from various Aerospace companies including Boeing, Lockheed, Grumman, NASA, Government standards personnel, a significant number of Bearing Manufacturers eg. RBC, Heim, Emerson, Aurora, NHB, Timken, Kaydon and Engineers responsible for Material specifications & Component ring producer for Bearings.

The SAE-ACBG Chairman Mr.Jim Mathis, Chief Engineer at Boeing will convene the 3 day event with an Agenda to cover both day group meetings & night entertainment packages.

The BICC will move & debate several topics ranging from Specification Alterations without Authority, Counterfeit seizures, false & misleading advertising by leading European Bearing Manufacturers and should these Manufacturers & subsidiaries convicted of criminal Offences including ‘price fixing cartels’ & ‘collusion’ be excluded as suppliers to the Aerospace Industry.  

For your registration kindly email the SAE Staff Representative Maureen Lemankiewicz :

“lemankm@sae.org”

Non Verified Claims of Counterfeit Bearings Installs Unwanted State of Alert to Other Industries & Countries

Lessons learnt from the 23 Jan 2007 fictitious event relating to Counterfeit bearing raids complete with allegations of criminal prosecution, newspaper headlines and other media press releases by leading European bearing manufacturers, result only in self hysteria for short term marketing gains that create unnecessary & unwanted concerns to critical application sectors globally.

7 June 2008

BICC Proposed Aerospace Specification CoC

SAE International Acknowledgement

The SAE International has acknowledged the BICC President Mr. Ian McPherson for work and

contributions in establishing global recognition.

The statement by David Schutt, Executive Vice President of SAE International, reads in part…

“Thank you for your time; thank you for your talents; and thank you for all that you contribute to 

SAE International. Without people like you, we simply would not be the world-class mobility 

engineering society that we are today.”

David Schutt further states…

Recently, SAE won the prestigious 2008 National Science Board Public Service Award for the 

outstanding work we do regarding education.

In fact, according to the award notification letter, SAE was selected in part,

"...for its long-standing and superior commitment to student and professional engineers and math

 and science education."

Two excellent examples of this commitment to learning and the main reasons that we won the 

award are the A World In Motion(R) curriculum and the Collegiate Design Series competitions.

400 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15096-0001 USA

FERRARI component manufacturer “Hill Engineering” www.hillengineering.co.uk  has endorsed the BICC for the purpose of avoiding Counterfeit & Fake Bearings for the use in the exclusive prestige automotive & racing car Industry.

Hill Engineering with nearly 60 years of engineering experience producing component parts under their strict ISO 9001 quality control procedures, challenge you to find a better tensioner bearing for your FERRARI.

For the latest news & information about the Ferrari Community visit www.ferrariChat.com

The BICC has now received many endorsements within the Automotive Chamber of Commerce and with general support from the global Aviation Industry delivers a strong message to the Bearing Industry for Certification.

Global green house gas emissions are growing far more rapidly than even the most pessimistic estimates developed by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

In a yet-to-be finalized academic paper, Professor Garnaut and three colleagues estimate that annual emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases would have almost doubled the current levels by 2030 and have reached levels British economist Sir Nicholas Stern predicted would not be reached under a “business-as-usual” scenario until 2050.

The paper concludes that rapid economic growth, centred on Asia but spreading across the world, is driving emissions growth and making earlier projections unrealistic. The predictions are expected to be published in July in The Oxford Review of Economic Policy.

Whilst major bearing manufacturers TIMKEN, SKF & FAG have nice & easy statements on how they contribute to a “Green” policy, the BICC recently examined bearing stocks in Italy, America & Australia with alarming results.

TIMKEN bearings eg. 32210 had (1) no Country of Origin on either bearing or packet (2) the box was made in Thailand (3) printing in Singapore (3) the liner from China (4) A code indicating production from Poland (5) sold in Australia. At a good estimate of more than 30,000 km’s of gas emissions for transportation.

SKF for ball bearings ranged from Germany to 11 various Countries, FAG faired much better although both companies claim to be awarded with the best green production. The latest available brochure by the SKF CEO in Sweden claims “stock exchange award winner” for the best green policy, but this does not include transportation around the World looking for the best price policy.

With the above policies from major bearing manufacturers, its little wonder why COUNTERFEIT & Re-Badge bearings are continuing at uncontrollable strengths.

For example, take the corrupt & former bankrupt central EU business “NKE BEARINGS STEYR AUSTRIA” (1) they are not a Bearing manufacturer as claimed (2) Ball & Cylindrical bearings from various CHINA locations (3) Taper rollers from Rajkot, INDIA (3) Sphericals from Ningbo CHINA, CZECH & ROMANIA (4) Boxes & Printing in THAILAND & ASIA.  

All are shipped to AUSTRIA packed in nice glossy boxes marked “NKE BEARINGS STEYR AUSTRIA” and marketed to the unassuming at 1^st quality prices. Nearly impossible to calculate the Transportation Gas Emissions for these gimmick type fake bearings, however “Name & Shame” is considered the best form of exposure.

It is a sign of the times when the global corporations the likes of General Motors and the USA Steel Industry announce a new multi-million dollar focus on Research and Development for environmental solutions.

And it is not just the corporate sector with many Governments issuing directives to departments to come clean on Green House emissions and the impact on savings.

This is a commendable turnaround and definitely positive signs for our future global environment and the BICC are cooperating by introducing “Bearing Miles”.

However, while there are those businesses and governments focusing on cleaning up their act, there appears to be those “cashing-in” on the “going Green” concept by using marketing campaigns to lure an increasingly environmentally sensitive consumer.

This concept has been labeled “GREENWASH” and it has been officially acknowledged as a real threat to real environmental change by diverting consumer dollars away from “real” and innovative environmental products and causing skepticism in the market and diluting the good that those businesses striving to make changes for the better are doing.

This has become a hot topic, so much so that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has released a new guide for businesses and companies that use green claims in their marketing. This guide has put companies on notice and now any claims about green-ness in Australia is subject to the Trade Practices Act prohibition of misleading and deceptive conduct.

Recently the BICC has commenced a trial on a new global environmental concept know as “Bearing Miles”. The BICC is pleased to confirm that the concept complies with Australian Government guidelines dealing with Green house emissions.

For more information about “Bearing Miles” contact info@bearingcode.com

A meeting & presentation was held on 13 March, 2008 between Directors from PricewaterhouseCoopers and Bearing Industry Code of Conduct.

PricewaterhouseCoopers presented BICC with a newly released 52 page survey on “Confronting Corruption”.

Mr. Ian McPherson told PWC the survey is compelling reading & would provide a valuable insight to eliminate global Counterfeiting, re-badge or lack of identification to Bearings & other forms of corrupt behavior.

It features analysis and commentary based on an online survey that was supplemented by in-depth interviews with senior executives and specialists in anti-corruption.

Interviews were conducted by PWC and 390 Company Executives from 14 different Countries.

Mr. Samuel A DiPiazza Jr, Chief Executive Officer, PricewaterhouseCoopers International states:

“We hope this report provides information and ideas to positively influence your strategic activities when operating in challenging business environments”.

An email copy in PDF is available send to: info@bearingcode.com

A view from PricewaterhouseCoopers “Essential elements of an anti-corruption programme” is detailed and many statistical illustrations, in particular the VALUE of importance to a company’s reputation and/or brand voted at 96%.

Further meetings between PricewaterhouseCoopers & BICC will be forthcoming, especially on Green House Emissions & Bearing Miles with regular reports posted to bearingcode.com News Updates.

The Food & Beverage Industry has endorsed the efforts of the BICC in order to have safe & reliable machinery after many complaints about Counterfeit Bearings.

Mr. Bob McDougall, USA Editor of the powerful www.FoodProcessing.com  states :

“The savings can be short-term when replacing OEM parts and assemblies with ones of questionable origin”

“The ideal part to fake is a high-cost item the value of which lies in some character or property not visible to the eye. Components with complex heat treatments, specialty machining tolerances, exhaustive testing certification and expensive compounds or alloys all present ideal opportunities for counterfeiting”

"We’re seeing some counterfeit bearings from China," confirms Bill Bayliss, business manager-aftermarket at FMC FoodTech (www.fmctechnologies.com/foodtech), Madera, Calif. "Some bearings are very sophisticated and, as a result, very expensive. But there’s a reason they’re so expensive. Some customers are finding out the hard way."

The Bearing Industry Code of Conduct will hold presentations at the Specialised Mechanics Exhibition “MECSPE” on 4^th & 5^th April 2008 at the Exhibition Center in PARMA, ITALY

Mr. Ian McPherson will present topics on Green House emissions & the impact on “Bearing Miles”, Manufacturers & Distributors obligations and endorsements from other Codes of Conduct.

If you are interested to attend PARMA ITALY, please email to info@bearingcode.com

For the entire program :-

Today’s conversations are clearly centered on two words, “Environmental Issues”

It is an undisputable fact these two words are having a rapidly growing impact on how products, including bearings, are manufactured, operate and ultimately disposed of.

And while many would like nothing better than to bury their heads in the sand and wait for a new report to confirm it was all a bad dream, the reality is the landscape has altered forever and now, more than ever, industry and businesses alike require new thinking and new methods to ensure long-time environmental sustainability or suffer the consequences.

The BICC has looked at various other Industries (such as the Automotive & Industrial, Food & Beverage) and conclude the common theme is to think “green” at every opportunity.

A prime example is today’s “green” shopping. In the UK they have invented “FOOD MILES” so the consumer is given the opportunity to select and buy a product or brand that is produced closest to the outlet, effectively reducing green house emissions with transport and handling.

The BICC believes a similar “green” approach should be implemented in the global bearing industry. Simply put it is called “BEARING MILES” or “KILOMETRES KUGEL”

There will be many believing this to be a gimmick however, please think again.

Today’s consumer is more discerning than ever and, faced with the growing reality of potential environmental disaster, seek the opportunity to exercise their moral and legal rights when considering the “complete life cycle” consequences of the products they buy and use.

Information relating to the bearing Country of Origin is now a critical factor for the customer in determining the “green house” process. Therefore, all bearing manufacturers have a moral or legal obligation to clearly stamp bearings with the Country of Origin and not by an unrecognizable code that disguises the true identity.

Another news item into “Bearing Miles” ”Kilometres Kugel” will be posted mid April detailing the bearing companies who rebadge or repackage with false Country of Origin. 

The President of the Bearing Industry Code of Conduct Mr. Ian McPherson will attend & present the BICC annual address at the USA Bearing Convention held by the International SAE-ACBG in Nashville Tennessee commencing April 15, 2008.

For all details including agenda & guest speakers to Maureen Lemankiewicz - mlemank@sae.org

Venue

Doubletree Hotel
315 Fourth Avenue North
Nashville, TN  37219
Telephone:  615/747-4800
Fax:  615/747-4815
Accommodation Room Rate: $ 139.00/Night Single/Double

Cut-off date for hotel reservations: MONDAY, MARCH 31, 2008

The Space Shuttle Columbia disaster occurred on February 1, 2003, when the Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrated over Texas during re-entry into the Earths atmosphere, with the loss of all seven crew.

For the past decade the Japanese Bearing Industry Association (JBIA) regularly visits the China Bureau of Quality & Technical Authority voicing there opinion about the continuing saga of China’s production of Counterfeit & Spurious Bearings, with little or no effect.

Japan’s message always contains a “safety with death” approach, but never addresses the necessary diplomatic protocol to audit known bearing manufacturing plants producing Spurious or No country of origin counterfeit type bearings.