100080109
BBB file opened: 3/9/2009
Business started: 4/1/2007
Contact Information
Linda Perry -
Business Category
Exercise Equipment Sales and Service
Alternate Business Names
Alternate Web Sites
Industry Tips
This company's product, Ab Circle Pro, is marketed by a locally based fulfillment center. The company actually appears to be located in Austin, TX. The product is advertised with a 30-day trial for a non-refundable $14.95 and $34.50 in shipping and handling fees. Your trial period begins when you place your order and includes processing, shipping, and transit time. If the product is not returned before the end of trial period, the customer agrees to make 5 payments of $39.95. Returns are not accepted without a Return Authorization Number (RMA) and must be postmarked within 7 days of the RMA being issued. Customers should review all cancellation and return policies prior to making a purchase.
By agreeing to the trial offers' terms and conditions, you have also agreed to receive a 60-day supply of nutritional vitamins every two months for $29.95 plus $6.95 shipping and handling per month, billed as Fitness Complete on the account the order is placed with. FTC Guidelines for advertising this type of offer require that all terms and conditions of the offer, as well as cancellation instructions, be clearly and conspicuously displayed in at least 10 point type before asking for payment or obtaining the customer's consent. Clearly and conspicuously means, NOT disclosed in microscopic print at the bottom of the webpage, but rather, disclosed along with the trial solicitation.
Regardless, many consumers overlook the advisory, and are unaware of the charge until their monthly credit card or bank statement is received. In this company's case, although the website states this shipment can be cancelled at anytime, consumers complain they are unable to cancel the program and they cannot contact the company by phone or email. Emails are not returned or acknowledged, and calls are not returned. Industry guidelines require marketers to provide a fast easy method of canceling, either by mail, phone, or website, Failure to do so may be a violation of consumer protection laws.
Most credit card issuers will allow the cardholder 60 days to dispute an unauthorized or inaccurate charge. Review your monthly statement carefully. If you discover a charge which is unfamiliar, investigate and dispute the amount with your card issuer as soon as possible to protect yourself from making unwanted purchases.