Ugg boot retailer Ozwear fined for ‘Australian made’ claims
Ugg boot retailer Ozwear Connection has paid penalties of $25,200 after the ACCC issued two infringement notices for alleged false country of origin representations made about its “Classic Ugg” footwear range.
Between January and April 2018, Ozwear’s website stated the company was “100% Aussie owned” and that its “Classic Ugg” range were made using “the best materials available in Australia”.
Prior to May 2018, Ozwear also attached a tag shaped like a map of Australia which included the words “this exclusive premium label is uniquely Australian owned brand for authentic Australian Ugg boots”.
Source: ACCC
The ACCC decided the claims created a false impression that Ozwear’s “Classic Ugg” footwear were Australian made when they were actually made in China.
“Ozwear’s conduct is unacceptable. Under the Australian Consumer Law, businesses are prohibited from making claims that create a false impression about products being made in Australia,” ACCC deputy chair Mick Keogh said.
“Country of origin representations can be a powerful marketing tool for businesses, as many consumers are willing to pay extra for Australian made products.
“When false or misleading representations are made about a product being Australian made, consumers may end up paying more for no reason at all and businesses who are genuinely making their products in Australia lose out,” Keogh said.
“Businesses are warned that making misleading claims or representations about a product’s country of origin will attract ACCC scrutiny and enforcement action.”
