Wesfarmers’ hardware chain Bunnings has caught the ire of New Zealand regulators after its famed “lowest prices, guaranteed” slogan was deemed misleading and possibly untrue. Bunnings operates 46 stores in New Zealand.
Bunnings has pleaded not guilt to 45 charges bought against it by the consumer watchdog New Zealand Commerce Commission. The case is set down for May 17.
According to reports on Fairfax Media, the allegations relate to advertising between June 2014 and February 2016. If found guilty, the hardware giant could face a fine as high as $A25 million.
Bunnings ads famously use the slogans “We’ve got the widest range and the lowest prices”, “Everything is at the lowest price guaranteed”, “Bunnings has the lowest price on everything you need”, and “Lowest prices are just the beginning”.
In worse news for Bunnings, Fairfax is reporting that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is keeping an eye on proceedings across the Tasman.
“The ACCC has previously considered related issues in Australia but determined not to pursue based on a number of factors,” a spokeswoman was quoted as saying.
“We will continue to follow the proceedings and any consumer reports of concerns but at this stage do not intend to re-open past consideration.”
