Koala Jack caught out over Ugg boots ‘Made in Australia’ claims
Queensland based online retailer Koala Jack has been sanctioned by the ACCC after using the ‘Made in Australia’ logo to market Ugg boots that were exclusively made in China.
Careful, now
The infringements took place during October 2012.
“The ACCC considers country of origin claims to be a particularly valuable marketing tool for businesses, as many consumers place a premium on goods that are Australian made,” ACCC Deputy Chair Dr Michael Schaper said.
“This outcome serves as a timely reminder that the ACCC will not hesitate to take action against businesses which mislead consumers about the origin of the goods they are selling.
“While the ACCC will continue to monitor advertising of this nature to ensure compliance with the Australian Consumer Law, businesses need to be aware there are many others out there watching. The chance of being caught out is extremely high,” he added.
Happiness Road, the company that traded as Koala Jack, has now given an undertaking to refrain from engaging in the same or similar conduct in the future; offer and pay refunds and publish an Adword advertisement on Google which directs visitors to publications on the ACCC’s website regarding misleading claims and advertising.