A VLS cased closed recently after the organisation successfully worked with MPM Lubricants to clarify product claims.

A number of MPM Lubricants claimed Mercedes-Benz approvals, but none could be found on the approved lubricants listing of the Mercedes-Benz website. They included gearbox oils, automatic transmission fluids, power steering fluids and level control fluids.

VLS worked with MPM to revise the product claims from formal approvals to marketing claims ‘according to the specifications of ...’ which were seen on labels, website descriptions and the Technical Data Sheets. VLS then undertook a six-month review and concluded that the product was in continued compliance, and the case was therefore resolved.

Commenting on the case, VLS Company Secretary David Wright said: “We want to ensure we have the highest standards in Europe for lubricant manufacture, blending and marketing, and we want a ‘level playing field’ for all participants so that we protect the interests of the consumer and other end users.

“We have worked very closely with Trading Standards over the past eighteen months to provide assured advice on lubricant marketing issues and the basis of claims in consumer law. Products must be able to deliver what they claim. Blenders, manufacturers and distributors making marketing claims that they cannot substantiate will be held to account by VLS and Trading Standards. “

He added: “We must ensure that lubricant companies can compete on an equitable basis and that end users can then have continued confidence that products are fit for purpose.”

For more details on this case and other cases under investigation, visit: www.ukla-vls.org.uk