Bench Craft Company is a marketing and advertising company that specializes in providing golf course advertising services. However, the company has faced numerous lawsuits over the years, with allegations of deceptive business practices and fraud. In this article, we will delve into the details of the Bench Craft Company lawsuit and what it means for both the company and its clients.
The History of Bench Craft Company
The company initially focused on selling personalized scorecards and tee signs to golf courses. However, in the early 2000s, the company shifted its focus to digital advertising, offering services such as website design, email marketing, and social media management.
Over the years, Bench Craft Company has faced multiple lawsuits from both clients and former employees. These lawsuits have alleged various fraudulent and deceptive business practices, including false advertising, breach of contract, and failure to pay employees.
Allegations of Deceptive Business Practices
However, according to the FTC, Bench Craft Company only had contracts with a limited number of golf courses, and many of the promised advertisements were never displayed.
In 2017, the FTC reached a settlement with Bench Craft Company, requiring the company to pay $2.2 million in refunds to affected clients. The settlement also prohibited the company from making false claims about the reach of their advertising services and required them to disclose any limitations or restrictions on their services.
Lawsuits from Former Employees
In 2013, a former sales representative filed a lawsuit against the company, alleging that he was not paid for his work and was instead forced to pay for expenses such as gas and office supplies out of his own pocket.
In 2019, another former employee filed a class-action lawsuit against Bench Craft Company, accusing the company of misclassifying employees as independent contractors to avoid paying minimum wage and overtime. The lawsuit also alleged that the company did not provide proper training or reimburse employees for business expenses.
Impact on Clients
The lawsuits against Bench Craft Company have had a significant impact on its clients.
Moreover, the negative publicity surrounding the lawsuits has damaged the reputation of Bench Craft Company, making it difficult for them to attract new clients. This has resulted in a decline in revenue for the company, which has struggled to stay afloat amidst the legal battles.
What You Can Do if You Have Been Affected
You can file a complaint with the FTC or contact a consumer protection attorney to explore your legal options.
If you are a former employee of Bench Craft Company and believe that you were not properly compensated for your work,
How to Protect Yourself from Deceptive Business Practices
To protect yourself from falling victim to deceptive business practices, it is essential to do your research before entering into any contracts or agreements. Research the company’s reputation, read reviews from previous clients, and ask for references. Additionally, always read the fine print and ask for clarification on any terms or conditions that you do not understand.
Steps to Take if You Have Been a Victim of Deceptive Business Practices
If you have been a victim of deceptive business practices, there are steps you can take to seek justice and protect yourself from further harm. First, gather all evidence, such as contracts, emails, and receipts, to support your claim. Then, file a complaint with the appropriate authorities, such as the FTC or your state’s Attorney General’s office. You may also want to consider seeking legal advice to explore your options for compensation.
FAQs about Bench Craft Company Lawsuit
Q: What is the current status of the lawsuits against Bench Craft Company?
A: The company has settled most of the lawsuits filed against them, including the 2015 lawsuit by the FTC. However, they are still facing ongoing legal action from former employees.
Q: Can I get a refund if I was a client of Bench Craft Company?
You can file a complaint with the FTC or contact a consumer protection attorney for assistance.
Q: How can I join a class-action lawsuit against Bench Craft Company?
Contact a labor law attorney for guidance on how to proceed.
Q: Is Bench Craft Company still in operation?
A: Yes, the company is still in operation, but it has faced financial difficulties due to the lawsuits and negative publicity.
Q: How can I protect myself from falling victim to deceptive business practices?
A: To protect yourself, always research a company before entering into any contracts or agreements. Read reviews, ask for references, and carefully review all terms and conditions before signing anything.
Conclusion
The Bench Craft Company lawsuit has shed light on the deceptive business practices of the company and the impact it has had on both clients and employees.By being aware of your rights and doing your due diligence, you can avoid falling victim to similar fraudulent schemes in the future.