The FTC Complaint That Sparked A Canada Goose Investigation

Complaints and concerns over claims made in advertising that don’t seem to match up with company promises can trigger negative press but also federal investigations in relevant countries, including an FTC complaint.

A complaint filed by animal rights organization PETA got the attention of a federal agency in the U.S. when it was alleged that Canada Goose has been harmfully and painfully trapping animals to collect feathers despite marketing statements that they do this process as ethically as possible.

Who is the Federal Trade Commission?

The FTC is a government agency with a mission to protect consumers and preventing deceptive, unfair, and anti-competitive business practices that could ultimately harm consumers like false advertising.

In addition to carrying out investigations and conducting hearings, the FTC also provides guidance in the form of policy recommendations or research tools to help advance their mission of protecting consumers.

One recent FTC action involves their investigation into the marketing practices of Canada Goose. A video from PETA raised concerns about how geese were being treated at a farm that allegedly supplied down for the luxury coats.

According to some consumers, a video formerly on the site that explained the “down traceability” and claims of ethical sourcing was removed after the FTC got involved.

FTC Regulations

The agency decided that despite the claims made in the FTC complaint that they would not recommend enforcement action at that time. The investigation specifically related to how Canada Goose was treating their geese, according to a letter sent to the general counsel for Canada Goose at the conclusion of that investigation.

The FTC has three different regulatory sections that create rules impacting businesses and consumers. The Bureau of Consumer Protection works on fraudulent or deceptive practices and acts, such as mislabeling. The Bureau of Competition assesses anticompetitive mergers and other business practices. Finally, the Bureau of Economics looks at the possible impact of these actions on the economy.

Who Filed the FTC Complaint Against Canada Goose?

PETA was the organization behind the video that started the entire process that resulted in Canada Goose coming under investigation. After that claim prompted the FTC complaint and resulting investigation, PETA says that the company removed the word “ensure” from their website in reference to what they say was a previous marketing statement about verifying that suppliers don’t hurt animals.

The video involved what PETA claims is the horrible treatment of geese including stepping on the animals, carrying them by their necks, stuffing them into cages, and herding the animals into piles that could suffocate them.

The organization claims that, even though the marketing claims have been updated on the website, Canada Goose is still engaged in the behavior outlined in the FTC complaint.

Federal Trade Commission Lawsuit

If you believe that you have information that should be shared with the Federal Trade Commission, it could potentially build into an FTC lawsuit. If the Federal Trade Commission determines that the actions investigated warrant enforcement action, this could also lead to fines.

Join a Free Canada Goose Class Action Lawsuit Investigation

If you live in Canada and you purchased a Canada Goose coat with coyote fur trim within the last two years, you may qualify to participate in this Canada Goose class action lawsuit investigation.

Fill out the form on this page and a Canadian lawyer will contact you if you qualify!

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This article is not legal advice. It is presented
for informational purposes only.