Competition Bureau
ToolsRelated topicsResourcesAbtronic Muscle Stimulators Removed from Market by Competition BureauOTTAWA, December 16, 2002 – Canadian consumers will no longer be subjected to false claims of weight loss and muscle toning, inducing them to purchase the Abtronic and Abtronic Pro, two electronic muscle stimulation devices, from Thane Direct Canada Inc (Thane). As part of a consent agreement registered with the Competition Tribunal, Thane has agreed to refund consumers the full value of the devices. Thane sold these two devices via television Infomercials and their Web site for approximately $120 each to hundreds of thousands of Canadians, giving the false impression that without performing any physical exercise, a person could lose weight, obtain an athletic physique with well-defined abdominal muscles, replace the workout benefits of a fully equipped gymnasium and increase their strength. "Consumers are particularly vulnerable when it comes to unsubstantiated product performance claims, and more specifically when the claims relate to sensitive issues such as weight loss and physical appearance," said Raymond Pierce, Deputy Commissioner, Competition Bureau. After being advised that the Competition Bureau had commenced an inquiry into this matter, Thane requested the issue be resolved by Consent Agreement. According to this agreement, Thane has agreed to stop selling and marketing the Abtronic and Abtronic Pro. Furthermore, the company will not market any similar device that offers weight loss or muscle toning without exercise, unless the Competition Bureau agrees that the claims are based on adequate and proper tests. The company has also agreed to pay a $75,000 administrative penalty. Finally, anyone who bought these products and is not satisfied, can obtain a refund by calling Thane at: 1-800-978-6329, or writing them at: Thane Direct Canada Inc., 101 Canarctic Drive, Toronto, Ontario, M3J 3N1. The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that promotes and maintains fair competition so that all Canadians can benefit from competitive prices, product choice and quality service. It oversees the application of the Competition Act, the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act, the Textile Labelling Act and the Precious Metals Marking Act.
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Created: 2002-12-16 Updated: 2005-04-18 |
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