Consumer Reports is calling out some large retailers for consumer-friendly and not-so-friendly practices in its sixth annual Naughty & Nice List.
Who’s on the Naughty List? Costco is, for selling Tiffany engagement rings that weren’t made by Tiffany & Co.
“Costco argued that the word ‘Tiffany’ has become a generic description for a type of ring setting,” says Tod Marks from Consumer Reports.
A federal judge disagreed, ruling in favour of Tiffany & Co. in a lawsuit earlier this year. Costco is appealing the decision.
Tom’s of Maine also made the Naughty List after being accused of using chemicals in their supposedly “natural” products.
“Tom’s didn’t admit wrongdoing, but they did agree to create a $4.5 million fund to settle claims that they misrepresented ingredients,” says Marks.
UPS is on the Naughty List, along with FedEx, for continuing to charge extra fees they call “fuel surcharges” –– despite this fall’s relatively low fuel prices.
The Nice List includes Jet Blue, for offering free broadband in the sky, meaning travelers can be online without paying extra.
Southwest Airlines made the Nice list for providing the most frequent-flyer award program trips of any big airline.
Kudos, too, to Dish Network, on the Nice List for developing a tracking system for their technicians so customers know exactly when the technician will show up.
And Target gets a round of applause for its liberal price-match policy and generous return and shipping policies.
Another on Consumer Reports’ Nice List: Doc Martens. The company’s boots have a lifetime guarantee for a line of products they call “For Life.” As long as you live, the company promises to make free repairs, including the eyelets, the lining, and even the sole.
