Godiva $15 Million False-Ad Deal Problematic, State AGs Say

A $15 million false-ad settlement with Godiva Chocolatier Inc. is problematic because a low claims rate means most class members will receive no benefit, attorneys general from six states told a New York federal judge.

Further, the settlement’s lack of injunctive relief and a broad release of claims mean alleged deception may continue, the attorneys general from Florida, Idaho, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, and Utah said.

Steve Hesse and Adam Buxbaum allege they paid a premium because the marketing phrase “Belgium 1926" made them believe Pennsylvania-made confections were produced in Belgium, known for fine chocolate.

The deal, which was preliminarily ...