The BBB is a self-serving, outdated, bloated organization that markets accreditation status to businesses and protects them, rather than the consumer. This "non-profit" supposedly impartial organization receives huge amounts of funding and representation from big business. How's this for a quote:
"Smart Money magazine ran an exposé of the U.S. Council of Better Business Bureaus in which it details the private organization's "too cozy" relationship with some of the businesses it claims to monitor. According to the article, the 112 U.S. BBBs collected $131 million in dues in 2007, comprising 90 percent of their total revenue [source: Parmar]. Perhaps more surprising is that 90 percent of BBB board members are corporate executives from industries that generate large numbers of BBB complaints [source: Garrett]."
Perhaps this is one of the reasons the BBB, Inc. is becoming increasingly irrelevant as a useful forum or service. Like many self-serving non-profits, it has failed to keep up with innovation and grown very insular while lining its own pockets. Look at see how many reviews you'll find there compared to Google or Yelp. Look at all the A+ ratings. Then stop wasting your time with BBB, Inc.
It must be tough watching the steady erosion of what was once almost exclusive control of public opinion in the business sector and a diminishing position of respect and authority.
I would encourage all businesses to stop supporting BBB, Inc. by refusing to buy their once vaunted accreditation status and recognize it for the not-so-subtle form of extortion that it is.
I would also encourage all consumers to use more effective, honest, consumer-based forums for reviews and feedback that are not in bed with the businesses they claim to evaluate.
Hey!
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