The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has accepted a court enforceable undertaking from the franchised car accessories retailer Autobarn, after concerns about representations made on the packaging of a personal breathalyser.

In December 2007 the Korean product was retailed nationally in Autobarn stores, with the packaging incorrectly indicating that the breathalyser met with the relevant Australian Standard.

Autobarn acknowledged the ACCC’s concerns and has provided the Commission with a series of court-enforceable undertakings including the implementation of a trade practices law compliance program for Autobarn employees and others involved in its business.

“Standards certifications are an important tool for consumers when making purchasing decisions,” ACCC deputy chair, Peter Kell, said. “While the Australian Standard for personal breathalysers is not mandatory, it provides an assurance to purchasers that the product meets a certain level of quality. For this reason, it is important that consumers can trust claims made by products about adherence to the Australian Standard.”

Kell commended Autobarn’s willingness to cooperate with the ACCC, including its efforts to remove the product from its stores.