BBB National Programs’ National Advertising Division (NAD) on January 29, 2026, recommended that Bashlin Industries discontinue or modify certain “Made in USA” claims for its lineworker equipment. The case was brought by competitor Buckingham Manufacturing.
What NAD found
- Climbers: Consumers cannot tell which parts of Bashlin’s climbers contain more than a negligible amount of content of undetermined origin. NAD recommended dropping the unqualified claims or adding qualifications.
- Tool bucket: A “MUSA” stamp on the bucket’s plastic bottom, a part made by a Georgia supplier, suggests the whole bucket is Made in USA. NAD recommended removing or qualifying it.
- Resold products: Being a reseller does not excuse Bashlin from backing up claims on its own website. NAD recommended dropping or qualifying claims for a bucket knuckle and hat liner.
- Videos: Made in USA claims in Bashlin’s safety videos count as national advertising because they are widely available online.
- Flag logo: Bashlin’s flag-style “B” logo and other patriotic images can imply a Made in USA claim when shown next to product information. NAD said such images far from product information would not carry that message.
Bashlin had already changed one harness label to “Assembled in USA.”
Although it “does not agree with NAD’s recommendations, Bashlin supports the self-regulatory process and will seek to comply with its recommendations.”
Bashlin Industries, advertiser statement
Why it matters for Made in USA
The decision covers several common risks: stamps that apply to one part but appear to cover the whole product, claims for resold goods, and flag imagery. Under the FTC’s “all or virtually all” standard, products assembled in the USA from foreign parts need a qualified claim such as “Assembled in USA.”
FAQ
What did NAD recommend for Bashlin?
That it discontinue or qualify unqualified Made in USA claims for climbers, a tool bucket, a bucket knuckle and a hat liner.
Can a flag logo be a Made in USA claim?
NAD found that flag imagery next to product information can imply USA origin.
Is a reseller responsible for Made in USA claims?
Yes. NAD said Bashlin is responsible for claims on its own website even for products it resells.
Source & credit
Source: BBB National Programs press release via GlobeNewswire, January 29, 2026: National Advertising Division Recommends Bashlin Industries Modify or Discontinue Certain “Made in USA” Claims