The Federal Trade Commission on August 29, 2023 finalized its order against Massachusetts- and New Hampshire-based clothing accessories companies and their owner, Thomas Bates, for falsely claiming that some products were made in the USA. The order was first announced in June 2023.
What the order requires
- No unqualified USA-origin claims unless final assembly or processing, and all significant processing, happen in the USA and all or virtually all parts are made and sourced here.
- Any qualified Made in USA claim must clearly disclose foreign parts or processing.
- “Assembled in USA” claims require the product to be last substantially transformed here, with substantial USA assembly.
- A monetary judgment of $191,481 paid to the FTC.
The order covers Chaucer Accessories, Bates Accessories and Bates Retail Group. The Commission vote was 3-0. Later, in 2024, the FTC sent refunds to affected buyers; see our refund coverage.
FAQ
Who is covered?
Chaucer Accessories, Bates Accessories, Bates Retail Group and owner Thomas Bates.
How much is the judgment?
$191,481.
Is the order final?
Yes. The FTC finalized it on August 29, 2023 by a 3-0 vote.
Source & credit
Source: Federal Trade Commission, August 29, 2023: “FTC Finalizes Order Against Clothing Accessories Company for False Made in USA Claims”.