FRANCE MEUBLES Ordered to Cease Misleading Commercial Practices and Clearly Label Furniture Composition
On February 18, 2025, the French Ministry of Economy and Finance announced that FRANCE MEUBLES, a furniture retailer, has been ordered to halt deceptive commercial practices regarding the origin of its products and to clearly indicate the composition of its furniture on the labeling.
Misleading Claims about Origin
FRANCE MEUBLES was found to have engaged in misleading practices by claiming that some of its furniture was “made in France” when, in reality, it was manufactured in other countries. This practice contravened Article L. 121-1 of the French Consumer Code, which prohibits businesses from making false or misleading claims about the origin of their products.
Lack of Clear Composition Labeling
Furthermore, FRANCE MEUBLES failed to provide clear and accurate information about the composition of its furniture. This omission violated Article R. 241-7 of the French Consumer Code, which requires businesses to indicate the composition of furniture, including the materials used and the percentage of each material.
Consequences of the Order
As a result of these violations, the French Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control Authority (DGCCRF) has ordered FRANCE MEUBLES to:
- Immediately cease all misleading commercial practices related to the origin of its furniture
- Clearly and accurately indicate the composition of its furniture on all labeling
- Display a notice informing consumers of these measures in all of its stores and on its website for a period of 15 days
Enforcement of the Order
The DGCCRF will monitor FRANCE MEUBLES’ compliance with the order. Failure to comply could result in additional penalties, including fines or even criminal charges.
Significance of the Order
This order demonstrates the French authorities’ commitment to protecting consumers from misleading and deceptive commercial practices. It also emphasizes the importance of transparent and accurate labeling for furniture and other consumer products.
Conclusion
The order against FRANCE MEUBLES sends a clear message to businesses that they must be truthful and transparent in their marketing and labeling practices. Consumers have the right to make informed decisions about the products they purchase, and they rely on businesses to provide accurate information. By ensuring that businesses comply with consumer protection laws, the French authorities are upholding the rights of consumers and fostering a fair and competitive marketplace.
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I asked Google Gemini the following question.
economie.gouv.fr a new article on 2025-02-18 16:19 titled “FRANCE MEUBLES enjointe de cesser toute pratique commerciale trompeuse sur l’origine des biens qu’elle commercialise et d’indiquer la composition des meubles sur leur étiquetage”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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