From Andrea Metcalf - FTC Calls Butt-Shaping Shoes Bogus
Sep-29-2011

The Federal Trade Commission announced today that Reebok has agreed to a $25 million settlement to resolve charges that it deceptively advertised toning shoes and apparel. The marketer began advertising EasyTone products in early 2009, followed by a series of products with names such as RunTone and TrainTone.

Reebok will pay the money into a fund intended to return money to consumers who bought Reebok toning products, which retail for upwards of $100. Funds will be made available to consumers either directly from the FTC or through a court-approved class-action lawsuit. Consumers have been asked to visit ftc.gov/reebok for details.
In a statement, Reebok said it is standing behind its shoes and agreed to the settlement only to avoid a protracted legal battle. "The allegations suggested that the testing we conducted did not substantiate certain claims used in the advertising of our EasyTone line of products. In order to avoid a protracted legal battle, Reebok has chosen to settle with the FTC. Settling does not mean we agreed with the FTC's allegations; we do not." The company went on to say that it has received "overwhelmingly enthusiastic feedback from thousands of EasyTone customers and we remain committed to the continued development of our EasyTone line of products." Indeed, the RunTone shoes are among the products being featured on the Reebok website as of noon today.

According to the FTC site, refunds will vary depending on the product purchased and the volume of the claims. Refunds exceeding $200 may require proof of purchase. Proof of purchase may also be requested if the total amount of requests from consumers exceeds $25 million.

Read the rest of the article by clicking the link below.

Visit Website

Posted by Ken at 6:49 PM - Link to this entry  |  Share this entry  |  Print