Williams-Sonoma Fined $3.2 Million for Misleading 'Made in USA' Claims
The Federal Trade Commission imposes record penalty on Williams-Sonoma for false advertising, marking a significant enforcement of consumer protection laws.
- Williams-Sonoma agrees to a $3.17 million fine for violating a 2020 FTC order about truthfully labeling the origin of its products.
- The fine is the largest ever for a 'Made in the USA' labeling case, reflecting the FTC's commitment to stringent enforcement.
- Investigation triggered by a consumer tip to TruthInAdvertising.org about a mattress pad falsely labeled as made in the USA.
- The settlement requires Williams-Sonoma to submit annual compliance certifications to prevent future violations.
- FTC Chair Lina M. Khan emphasizes that deceptive practices harm consumers and honest businesses, affirming no tolerance for 'Made-in-USA' fraud.