Fine of €25,000 against Maison Albert Sounit (71) for misleading commercial practices
Following a complaint lodged by a consumer, the Departmental Directorate of Protection of Populations (DDPP) of Saône-et-Loire carried out an investigation into the commercial practices of Maison Albert Sounit, a company specialising in the sale of kitchen equipment.
The investigation revealed that the company had used misleading commercial practices, in particular by:
- Using the term “factory prices” when the prices charged were not lower than those charged by other similar companies.
- Claiming that its products were “made in France” when they were actually made in China.
- Failing to provide clear and precise information on the prices of its products, including delivery costs.
These practices constitute misleading commercial practices within the meaning of Article L. 121-1 of the Consumer Code.
As a result, the DDPP issued a formal notice to Maison Albert Sounit, ordering it to cease these practices within two months. The company did not comply with this injunction.
The case was therefore referred to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, which initiated criminal proceedings against the company.
On 23 June 2023, the Mâcon Criminal Court sentenced Maison Albert Sounit to a fine of €25,000. The court also ordered the company to publish the judgment in a local newspaper.
This decision is a reminder that companies must respect the rules of fair competition and that consumers must be protected against misleading commercial practices.
Amende de 25 000 € à l’encontre de Maison Albert Sounit (71) pour pratique commerciale trompeuse
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