Introduction
If you’ve ever worked with a local advertising company or seen ads at a golf course, chances are you’ve come across Bench Craft Company. Recently, though, this name has become less associated with marketing and more with controversy. The company is now at the center of a lawsuit accusing it of deceptive marketing and misleading business practices. So, what happened? Let’s take a deep dive into the Bench Craft Company lawsuit and find out.
Background on Bench Craft Company
What is Bench Craft Company?
Founded in 1982, Bench Craft Company has made a name for itself by providing custom advertising on golf course scorecards, benches, signage, and yardage books. Their model was simple: offer free course materials to golf courses in exchange for selling ad space to local businesses.
Services and Market Presence
Their pitch was appealing to both sides—golf courses got free supplies, and small businesses received visibility. Over the decades, the company worked with thousands of golf courses across the U.S., building a substantial footprint.
History of Marketing Strategies
Bench Craft heavily relied on cold calls and high-pressure sales tactics. Promises of exclusive local exposure, professional ad design, and targeted impressions were common in their sales language. But as time went on, not everyone was satisfied with what they received.
The Rise of Complaints
Customer Dissatisfaction
Despite the seemingly win-win business model, many clients began voicing frustration. Businesses alleged they paid hundreds or even thousands of dollars for advertisements that either never went live or were placed in locations with little to no visibility.
Common Issues Reported
- Ads not being delivered or printed
- Poor design quality
- Long delays in fulfillment
- Unreachable customer service
- Automatic contract renewals
Timeline of Complaint Escalation
Complaints began surfacing as early as the mid-2010s, but by 2020, online forums and BBB listings were flooded with negative reviews. Eventually, a critical mass of unsatisfied customers drew the attention of attorneys—and the legal system.
The Lawsuit Unveiled
When and How the Lawsuit Began
In 2023, a class action lawsuit was filed against Bench Craft Company in response to a large volume of business complaints. Plaintiffs alleged that the company engaged in deceptive marketing practices, misrepresented their services, and failed to deliver on contractual obligations.
Key Legal Claims and Allegations
- False advertising
- Breach of contract
- Unfair business practices
- Misrepresentation of ROI and ad reach
Allegations of Deceptive Marketing
Misleading Advertising Promises
One of the biggest red flags? Many clients said they were promised premium ad placement but ended up buried in back pages or not published at all. Others reported being sold on exclusivity, only to discover competitors featured in the same materials.
Targeting Small Businesses and Golf Courses
The company’s pitch often focused on small, locally-owned businesses—those least likely to have legal teams vetting contracts. Unfortunately, these small businesses were the ones most financially impacted.
Breach of Contract Accusations
From missing ad placements to poorly printed materials, there are many claims that Bench Craft didn’t hold up their end of the agreement. Worse yet, attempts to cancel contracts often went ignored or were met with threats of collection.
Class Action Status
What it Means to Be a Class Action Lawsuit
Class action status means multiple plaintiffs with similar claims can band together against a defendant. In this case, hundreds of small businesses joined forces, amplifying the pressure on Bench Craft.
Criteria Met for This Lawsuit
The legal team demonstrated that the affected parties shared common grievances, financial losses, and misleading contract terms.
Businesses Involved
The plaintiffs include dental offices, real estate agents, local restaurants, fitness studios, and more—all alleging similar misconduct.
Bench Craft’s Defense
Official Statements from the Company
Bench Craft has denied wrongdoing, arguing that the complaints represent a small minority and that their contracts were transparent.
Legal Defenses Presented
Their defense hinges on the claim that services were provided as promised, and any dissatisfaction stemmed from misaligned expectations—not deception.
Arguments Against the Allegations
They argue that ad placements were subject to availability and that design and distribution timelines were always approximate.
Legal Proceedings and Updates
Court Actions Taken So Far
Several hearings have been held, and evidence including contracts, email threads, and ad samples have been submitted. The court has yet to reach a final verdict.
Key Dates and Decisions
- Initial filing: March 2023
- Class certification hearing: October 2023
- Ongoing discovery and mediation: Through 2024
Statements from Legal Representatives
Lawyers representing the plaintiffs have cited a “pattern of deception,” while defense attorneys maintain this is a case of misunderstood business practices.
Impact on Clients and Business Owners
Testimonials and Statements from Clients
Many affected businesses reported feeling “taken advantage of” and “ignored after payment.” Some called it their worst advertising decision ever.
Financial and Emotional Toll
Losses ranged from $400 to over $3,000 per client. Beyond the money, business owners described feelings of betrayal and helplessness.
Business Disruption and Trust Issues
Some businesses had to delay marketing plans, while others became wary of working with any advertising companies moving forward.
Industry-Wide Implications
How This Affects Marketing Firms
The lawsuit sends a clear message to other firms: transparency is non-negotiable. Overpromising and underdelivering can come with serious consequences.
Increased Scrutiny on Advertising Practices
Expect more audits, customer satisfaction surveys, and legal reviews across the ad industry.
Regulatory Reactions
Consumer protection agencies are keeping a closer watch on firms that deal with small business clients.
The Role of the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
BBB Ratings and Complaints
Bench Craft’s BBB profile has been flooded with 1-star reviews and complaints, many unresolved. It holds a low rating and alerts about a pattern of issues.
Influence on Public Opinion
For many, the BBB profile was the first red flag. It influenced countless businesses to reconsider or cancel contracts.
Media Coverage and Public Perception
News Outlets Reporting on the Case
Several local and national media sources have covered the lawsuit, bringing more visibility to the story.
Social Media Reactions
Platforms like Reddit and Facebook have threads filled with client experiences and support groups for affected businesses.
Reputation Damage
Bench Craft’s once-respected name in golf marketing has been severely damaged, perhaps beyond repair.
Lessons Learned from the Case
Importance of Transparency in Marketing
Clients need clear deliverables, realistic timelines, and honest expectations. Anything less opens the door for disputes.
Contracts and Fine Print Awareness
Never skip reading the contract, no matter how trustworthy the sales rep seems. What’s in writing is what matters.
Verifying Vendor Legitimacy
Before signing anything, check reviews, verify claims, and ask for previous client examples.
What Happens Next?
Potential Legal Outcomes
The court may rule for financial restitution, demand policy changes, or even mandate business restructuring.
Possible Compensation for Affected Parties
If the plaintiffs win, hundreds of businesses could receive settlements or refunds.
Future of Bench Craft Company
Whether they survive the lawsuit or not, their reputation will never be the same—and the industry won’t forget.
Conclusion
The Bench Craft Company lawsuit shines a harsh spotlight on deceptive marketing and business practices. For small business owners, it’s a cautionary tale of what happens when trust is misplaced. For marketing firms, it’s a wake-up call. As consumers become more informed, transparency and honesty are no longer optional—they’re essential.
