As a consequence of trade globalization and the access to a
wider variety of goods and services, product quality has become a
growing concern for consumers. This stems from the need to identify
the source of the product, its manufacturing method and compliance
with specific standards.
The same holds true for the supply of services and certification
marks are used to fulfill this function - 120 countries worldwide
register certification marks, of which 64 within the Madrid system.
In addition, consumers have grown increasingly sensitive to the
impacts that the production and consumption of products and
materials have on the environment. Certification marks in the form
of 'ecolabels' can demonstrate the producer's efforts
to conform to international environmental requirements and are
essential marketing tools for consumer fidelity.
