Big-name retailers are coming under increased scrutiny over accusations of deceptive ‘strikethrough’ pricing, a recent example being that of Tempur Sealy International and Stearns & Foster Bedding facing a consumer class action claim. Allegedly, these companies have been engaging in a practice of displaying false regular prices in strikethrough font, giving the impression that their goods are being sold at considerable discounts.
The case—named “Anyasulu v. Tempur Sealy International”—was filed on April 18 in California’s Alameda County Superior Court by the attorneys of Crosner Legal. Such instances of fraudulent pricing methods are a growing trend, despite inconsistent outcomes across various lawsuits. Here is the detailed information regarding the issue.
According to Stephanie A. Sheridan, an Executive Committee member with Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff, this trends are on the rise. “These filings are going up and we are handling a lot of them,” Sheridan remarked. Many such threat letters are issued, she disclosed without revealing the numbers, stating that they are keeping her department significantly occupied. This not only points out the increasing trend but also signifies the allocation of resources towards addressing such claims.
This trend points out to a critical issue for consumers as they may not always get what they believe to be a bargain. Meanwhile for corporations, besides the potential legal penalties, are reputational risks and loss of consumer trust associated with such deceptive pricing practices.