Selling It
Goofs, glitches, and gotchas spotted by our readers
Marketers want their products and services to be noticed and applauded, but sometimes the attempt backfires. When it does, our eagle-eyed readers let us know, submitting examples of rip-offs, poorly worded ads, half-empty packaging, outlandish claims, and goofs that have made them laugh out loud.
Spring Fever!
Check out some of the strangest signs of the season.
Watch Out Below!
Photo: John Jamison Photo: John Jamison
It might be better to hire experts who play it safe.
Submitted by John Jamison, Mashpee, MA
When Nature Calls
Photo: Cary Kassebaum Photo: Cary Kassebaum
Here’s hoping these aren’t in the same place.
Submitted by Cary Kassebaum, Cottonwood, AZ
The Winds of Change
Photo: Marilyn Stark Photo: Marilyn Stark
Since when do wind chimes need solar power?
Submitted by Marilyn Stark, as seen in San Bruno, CA
Get Ready to Watch the Grass Grow
Photo: Mark Sullivan Photo: Mark Sullivan
You may have to wait awhile if you’re getting your mower fixed here.
Submitted by Mark Sullivan, via email
Send Us Your Funny Ads
Be on the lookout for goofs and glitches like these. Share them with us via:
• Email: SellingIt@cro.consumer.org
• Mail: Selling It, Consumer Reports, 101 Truman Ave., Yonkers, NY 10703
Please include key information, such as the publication’s name and date. We might publish your submission here.
Editor’s Note: This article also appeared in the May/June 2023 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.
