Senators Warn of Misleading Outlet Stores

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Two U.S. senators from New England are helping to lead a call for action against outlet stores whose marketing practices mislead consumers.

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island and Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, along with Sen. Anna Eshoo of California, sent a letter to Federal Trade Commission chairwoman Edith Ramirez expressing concern over “deceptive” pricing practices.

The three are urging the FTC to investigate claims that both online and brick-and-mortar outlet stores may be selling lower-quality items than those in regular retail stores.

They say outlet stores often also use price tags referencing a “retail price” — suggesting consumers are getting a deal, even though the item was specially made for the outlet. They cautioned holiday shoppers Thursday to take a closer look at prices and quality at outlets.