The FTC took action against three New England-based clothing accessories companies (Chaucer Accessories and related entities) and their owner, Thomas Bates, for falsely claiming that their products were “Made in USA,” “Hand Crafted in USA,” or “Made in USA with Global Materials,” when in fact the products were barely assembled in the United States or contained materials from foreign countries. For example, belts marketed as “Made in USA from Global Materials” were made from imported belt straps affixed to buckles in the United States and shoes labeled “Made in USA” were made from either wholly imported materials or contained a significant amount of imported content. Notably, the FTC brought this action under Section 5 of the FTC Act and not the Made in USA Labeling Rule, which may not cover statements made on social media, websites, etc., or qualified “Made in USA” claims.
