PRESS RELEASE

ANTITRUST BEGINS INVESTIGATION ON BRACELET THAT PROMISES STRENGTH AND BALANCE

The companies that distribute Power Balance products have 15 days to send in medical-scientific documentation proving the advertised properties.


The Antitrust Authority has decided to launch investigation into possible bad business practice on the two companies that distribute and market the “Power Balance” bracelet, namely Power Balance Italy, which is the Italian distribution company of “Power Balance” brand products, and Sport Town, which markets the products.
In their business communication, the two companies inform of the positive effects on the balance, strength, flexibility and physical resistance of those who wear the coloured silicon and neoprene bracelets, which are becoming the summer ‘cult’ objects. These characteristics are also extended to necklaces with pendant that complete the range.
According to the proceeding started by Authority officials, the two companies must supply suitable medical-scientific documentation on the properties and effects that the products have on the human body, including “instant efficiency of the electronic, chemical and biological systems of the individual” within the next 15 days. During this period it must also be proved that product use has no contraindications for consumer health and safety.
The investigation was launched on the basis of the Consumer Code, which defines as incorrect the behaviour of companies that erroneously convince the average consumer about the main characteristics of the sold products, for example results that can be expected from their use or the fundamental results and characteristics of checks and inspections carried out on the products themselves.



Rome, 03rd August 2010