The Consumer and Better Business Bureau?
Does the Better Business Bureau protect the public in any real way? For the most part I think not. Some businesses use the BBB logo in their ads, website or store signs. Consumers think of this as an endorsement or guarantee. Virtually any business can sign up with the BBB and pay them a membership fee to advertise as a member. The BBB is not a government agency. They lack the power to really do anything other than relay a complaint to a company or show that a particular company has open or resolved complaints. The BBB will note that a business is not a member if they don’t pay the BBB any fees. Some of the worst companies have been members and some continue to be members. When a consumer is looking to check into a company they should first search the state department of business regulation, court filings and other searches via google etc. You can also work from referrels from other people you know. I think the BBB should carry very little weight in the decision process on whether to do business with a company. If you need to file complaints about any company I suggest state agencies first. You can file with the BBB online after you have tried other places first , especially if that company is a member.
