Right now, a lawsuit against Barilla Pasta brand is making headlines. Plaintiffs say the company’s slogan “Italy’s Number One Brand of Pasta” is a lie is misleading.
Two of the pasta company’s “most loyal” customers filed the lawsuit after realizing the pasta is not made in Italy at all. In Fact, the lawsuit shows the pasta is made in both Iowa and New York. So why claim to be the best in Italy. Barilla was founded in Parma, Italy in 1877. Today, in its U.S. based plants the same type of machines that were used in its original Italian plant are still being used. According to USA Today, both customers are seeking monetary compensation after arguing the company exploited customers who were willing to pay more for authentic Italian pasta. They are also asking the court to stop Barilla from using Italy’s likeness in marketing and labeling. The company is arguing they’re slogan is not misleading because “Made in the U.S.A. is stamped on all packaging.
There are other similar lawsuits including the California marijuana companies who are being sued for what an attorney says is misleading packaging. The restaurant chain “Macaroni Grill” is also facing a lawsuit for what one attorney is calling a “deceptive” inflation fee.
You would think these companies knew the basics when it came to avoiding a lawsuit but obviously, they did not. The insurance company, Travelers, has listed out the top ways to protect your business from a lawsuit. According to that list, the number one way is to put agreements in writing and keep accurate records. The second reason listed was to protect your reputation. The company says it’s important to bring integrity to all your dealings with employees, customers, competitors and the community. Travelers says misrepresenting your business, products or capabilities could come back to haunt you in the form of potential lawsuits.
If these accusations against any company mentioned are found true, it could be safe to say they forgot or they were never given the foundation rules to protecting the bottom line.
There’s no better way to prepare for the 4th quarter than to make sure your business is fully protected. You want to make record-breaking sales while not worrying about a lawsuit. One way to do that is to stay ahead. On December 16th, Valuetainment is holding its annual “Business Planning Workshop 2022” hosted by the founder and CEO Patrick Bet David. To reserve your spot for the one-day jam packed workshop click here.
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