BBB National Programs Insights

Direct selling – when done correctly – can benefit distributors and consumers. Unfortunately, it only takes a few bad actors to compromise the integrity of an entire industry. The direct selling industry faces difficult and important challenges in enhancing consumer and regulatory confidence in the marketing of its products and services. Successful and effective self-regulation has often been described as a marathon and not a sprint and, as such, requires ongoing commitment and participation from the industry. DSSRC has been encouraged by the engagement and receptivity of the industry to our self-regulatory efforts, as well as the public support expressed by government agencies like the FTC and leaders such as the DSA to make the space a better one for salesforce members and the consumers they reach.

It is a common misunderstanding that the National Advertising Division (NAD) creates or establishes standards for the U.S. advertising industry. NAD does not make the rules, but instead serves as one arm of the U.S. system of independent advertising self-regulation to hold companies to established standards for claim substantiation. Substantiation standards may be set by laws, guidance documents, or industry organizations. This post outlines how NAD looks to those different sources for guidance when reviewing advertising claims.

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all aspects of our lives, from the ability to socialize to the ability to work. Keeping up with routine vehicle maintenance, for many who have been moving around less since the pandemic began, has become less routine. So, what happens when you discover an issue with your vehicle? To make sure your vehicle gets fixed, follow these guidelines and, if your vehicle cannot be fixed, we at BBB AUTO LINE have some guidelines for that, too.

Green marketing can be a strong marketing tool for companies to differentiate their sustainable approach to business and help consumers choose more sustainable products. But with the variety and volume of green marketing today, does it? Are environmental claims supported so that consumers can make choices that help the planet? While some observers call for more rigorous standards, governmental guidelines regulating environmental marketing already exist. Industry self-regulation also plays an important role in leveling the playing field on green marketing so that consumer purchases align with their environmental goals.