Questions Mount Over Vistaprint Business Practices
By John Curran
Many companies offer no- or low-cost products available via television offers, and Vistaprint.com is no different. Eagle-eyed viewers may find that offers like 250 free business cards carry a shipping-and-handling fee, but others only see that additional cost during check out. Some California consumers may be facing additional problems beyond Vistaprint class action lawsuits from several years ago.
A lack of clarity has led to several legal actions regarding Vistaprint billing practices. In 2009, a judge handed down a decision in the company’s favor, but consumers complained that entrance into a rewards program led to ongoing monthly charges. Similar services have led to complaints and national media coverage for their “opt-out” nature and perceived lack of clarity regarding terms and conditions.
In California, there are expanded consumer protections that may in part be the result of having Silicon Valley within its borders. However, even the federal Telephone Consumer Protection Act requires companies to inform consumers that they are opting into programs that can result in text messages and phone calls. Other Truth in Advertising laws and related Golden State statutes have led to investigations by Vistaprint class action lawsuit attorneys.
The full extent of potential violations is unclear at this time, but reports indicate that it could affect an overwhelming majority of purchasers of Vistaprint products in California. Factors that will determine the scope include what was bought and how the company completed the purchase, as well as follow-up activities. As a reference, the company settled with buyers in a 2005 class action lawsuit settlement over excessive shipping charges while not admitting any wrongdoing.
Fulfillment problems have not been limited to California, however. Vistaprint billing practices may have been exacerbated several years ago when it sued another company for breach of contract because the company failed to properly ship orders on behalf of the marketing materials vendor.
You May Be Eligible to Join a Pending Vistaprint Class Action Lawsuit
Any violations of California statutes governing businesses could lead to legal action to compensate consumers as a result of any settlement. However, the first step is to establish eligibility with the help of qualified Vistaprint class action lawsuit attorneys. You can get a free consultation with one by filling out the short form at the Vistaprint Class Action Lawsuit Investigation. It’s the first step in any potential legal remedy to offset any business practice violations in California.
All class action and lawsuit news updates are listed in the Lawsuit News section of Top Class Actions
