The Case of the Skimpy Snack The concept of “shrinkflation” may be gaining ground in light of today’s economy, but it’s nothing new. In fact, nearly a decade ago, the thought of companies reducing the amount of product available in each sale while charging the same price hit one Midwestern man right in his sweet tooth. In 2017, Robert Bratton of Columbus, Missouri, sued the Hershey Co. for $5 million, claiming that the boxes of Reese’s Pieces and Whoppers he regularly purchased were not filled with enough candy. Citing violations of the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, he alleged that 29% of the Reese’s Pieces boxes he purchased were empty, while only 59% of the Whoppers packaging contained actual product. His suit further alleged that the candy company unjustly enriched itself by knowingly selling boxed items containing considerable empty space. Aiming to avoid leaving a sour taste in court, Hershey’s contended that at least some empty space is common in most packaged goods to allow for “efficient manufacturing and distribution.” Additionally, the company claimed that consumers are made aware of this necessary space before purchasing its goods, as the contents of Whoppers and Reese’s Pieces boxes “audibly rattle.” Seize Your Valentine’s Victory Solo, Strong, and Satisfied A Sweet Swindle?
Despite his multimillion-dollar complaint, Bratton continued to purchase Hershey products, a move that ultimately led to the unraveling of his lawsuit. In 2018, Judge Nanette K. Laughrey dismissed the case after it was revealed that the plaintiff had purchased Reese’s Pieces and Whopper boxes by the hundreds over several years, despite knowing the high likelihood that they would not be full. “Mr. Bratton testified that he initially expected the boxes to be full, but at some point … [he] realized that they’re not,” Laughrey said in her ruling. “Although Mr. Bratton claimed to have always clung to his hope that the boxes would be full, he acknowledged that he did not expect the box to be miraculously filled the next time he bought it.” While Bratton’s love for sugary treats is impossible to deny, his efforts to take down a chocolate giant for shortchanging his confectionery conquests were questionable at best.
If you’re dreading your first (or another) Valentine’s Day alone, it’s time to look at Feb. 14 in a new way. Whether you’re newly divorced or struggling with being alone on yet another day celebrating love, here are three tips for finding greater happiness on the holiday. START WITH SELF-CARE. Valentine’s Day celebrates love for others, but nothing stops you from loving yourself as well. For one thing, it lands on a Saturday this year. If you typically have weekends off, you can be as extravagant or low-key as you want without your “you” time interfering with your work commitments. Go on a short trip to visit an out-of-state spot of interest, give yourself a rejuvenating trip to the gym, or simply stay home and soak in some long-overdue peace and quiet. Regardless of how you choose to fill your time, focus on activities that bring you pleasure and fulfillment. PRIORITIZE PEOPLE WHO PROVIDE PEACE. Keeping good company can go a long way in clearing your head. If being alone will bring you down this Valentine’s Day, consider making plans to spend time with single or separated friends who may also
benefit from a bit of companionship. Even if your desired company lives far away, you can always use tech to have a video chat or even host a multiperson “watch party” of a silly movie
you all love. Just because you’re not spending Valentine’s Day with a partner doesn’t mean you need to stay solo. BLUEPRINT A NEW BEGINNING.
If this Valentine’s Day threatens to drown your feelings in thoughts of the past, consider using it as a way to plot a new chapter in your life. Have a hobby or interest that’s been on the back burner for far too long? Want to get in better shape and adopt a healthier lifestyle? Would adopting a new or first-time pet bring you joy? If so, Feb. 14 is the day to put these plans into action! A new course for a more fulfilling life is perhaps the best Valentine’s Day gift you’ll ever receive.
2 — rbbfirm.com
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