Charges laid against Modugno-Hortibec Inc.

OTTAWA, July 15, 2002 — The Competition Bureau announced today that five charges have been laid against a Quebec company under the net quantity provisions of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act. Modugno-Hortibec Inc. is a Quebec company specializing in the packaging and sales of garden products such as top soil and compost.

In May 2002, the Bureau conducted a detailed inspection of five types of packing of compost and marble chips to verify the net quantity. This inspection revealed that the net quantity of certain items packaged under the names Canadian Garden, Master Gardener and Hortibec, was not the same as that indicated on the label. In fact, the quantity was less than indicated on the label. As a result, the Bureau alleged that consumers were deceived about the quantity of the products.

"Consumers assume that labelling is accurate so that they can make prudent choices," said Raymond Pierce, Deputy Commissioner, Fair Business Practices Branch. "When the labelling is incorrect, it's the consumers who lose."

Consumers who suspect they have been the victim of deceptive business practices or who want information on the application of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act should contact the Bureau's Information Centre at 1-800-348-5358, or visit our Web site at http://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca.

The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that promotes and maintains fair competition so that all Canadians can benefit from competitive prices, product choice and quality service. It oversees the application of the Competition Act, the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act, the Textile Labelling Act and the Precious Metals Marking Act.

For general enquiries, please contact:
Information Centre
Competition Bureau
1-800-348-5358

For media enquiries, please contact:
Maureen McGrath
Senior Communications Advisor
Communications Branch
819-953-8982, or 613-296-2187 (cell)