The holograms consist of multigram images, produced by the combination of different optical processes, which provide multiple barriers against replication and counterfeiting.

It is applied as a tamper-evident, self-adhesive label on a prominent position on colour and black ink cartridge cartons, so they can be immediately identified as genuine Epson products.

"We have been in talks with Epson about further fields, but the problem is most evident in South America," said Edwin Shufflebotham, AOTs strategic marketing manager for Europe and Asia.

"Different divisions handle security differently, but obviously counterfeiting can happen anywhere," he added.

Shufflebotham could not comment on the length of the contract or the quantities involved due to confidentiality.

AOT also does work for Adidas, Fifa and Dolce & Gabbana. The firm, which is based in Washington, Tyne and Wear, employs 245 staff and has a turnover of 30m.

The firm is supplying this years Fifa World Cup with labels and tags featuring overt and covert security systems. It has also secured the contract to supply brand protection for the Athens 2004 Olympic Games merchandise.

Story by Rachel Barnes