AMD strikes off logo to outsmart thieves

AMD has resorted to removing its logo and all signs of identification from imports arriving in the UK in a bid to combat the growing problem of chip theft.

The decision was made as distributors claimed thieves are becoming more organised and sophisticated in targeting shipments of semiconductors.

Sukh Rayat, managing director of Flashpoint, said there had been many incidents over the past month where product had been 'lost or had disappeared' following its arrival at Heathrow and Manchester airports.

'From the moment it arrives in the country until it is delivered to the warehouse is the main area of concern as this is where product is being specifically targeted by thieves,' he added.

Rayat cited one recent incident where approximately #100,000 of chips had disappeared, but declined to elaborate further.

Rana Mainee, European planning manager of AMD, said there had not been any recent thefts that had influenced the decision directly, but the removal of AMD's name and logo from boxes entering the country would make them 'less obvious'.

He also confirmed the decision had been pending for some time, but had been delayed in response to objections from certain customers.

'There has been resistance in the past because customers want to identify boxes for logistical reasons. They want to know what's sitting on their shelves,' said Mainee.

Despite the drawbacks, Rayat admitted the decision made sense: 'It will create more work for us but it is necessary, particularly in times when product is in short supply because it makes chip theft a lucrative business.'

A representative at Intel claimed chip theft was a secondary problem to the remarking of chips to supply the grey market. 'We do take steps to reduce theft, but we would not confirm or publicise any measures we are taking.'

He added: 'We are more concerned about cutting out remarking as our decision to stop supplying chips in tray format shows.'

Heathrow Airport cargo squad was unavailable for comment.