Beware of EndoAthletics Scams: A Consumer Fraud Warning
In a world where fitness and athleticism play a significant role in our lives, we often look for reliable and trustworthy sources to fulfill our fitness needs. However, the unfortunate truth is that not all companies in the athletic industry have our best interests at heart. One such company that has come under scrutiny for its questionable practices is Endoathletics. This article aims to shed light on the alarming issues surrounding Endo Athletics, a company that has failed to deliver on its promises and left consumers in distress.
what you need to know about crowdfunding scams?
The scam version of pre-selling or crowdfunding typically involves fraudulent or deceptive practices aimed at taking people’s money without delivering the promised product or service. Some common scam tactics in this context include:
- Fake Projects: Scammers create compelling project descriptions and promotional materials for products or services that do not exist. They may use stock images, stolen content, or fabricated testimonials to make the project seem legitimate.
- Phantom Products: Some scammers will promise innovative products or services that are simply too good to be true. They may claim to have groundbreaking technology or offer unrealistic benefits to entice backers.
- Overpromising and Underdelivering: Scammers may promise a lot but provide very little. They may claim to offer premium features, quality, or quantities but deliver subpar or non-existent goods.
- Failure to Deliver: After collecting funds, scammers may disappear or stall indefinitely, never intending to produce or provide the product or service.
- Poor Communication: Lack of transparency, infrequent updates, and evasion of customer inquiries are common tactics used by scammers to keep backers in the dark about the status of the project.
- Impersonation: Some scammers impersonate legitimate businesses or individuals to gain trust. They may use fake identities or websites that closely mimic established brands or crowdfunding platforms.
- Refund Issues: Scammers may promise refunds but make it extremely difficult for backers to actually get their money back.
The BBB Warning against Endoathletics
One of the most glaring red flags when it comes to EndoAthletics is the lack of accreditation by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). As of March 2023, EndoAthletics has received an “F” rating from the BBB, indicating its failure to respond to consumer complaints adequately. This raises serious concerns about the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction and ethical business practices.
The BBB first contacted EndoAthletics in October 2017 regarding a pattern of complaints from customers who reported that their orders were not being delivered. The company’s response to these complaints has been disheartening, as they have consistently failed to address the underlying issues. Even as of November 2020, the pattern of complaints persisted, with customers still experiencing delivery issues and a lack of communication from EndoAthletics.
Endoathletics Persistent Delivery Issues
EndoAthletics has a long history of failing to fulfill customer orders, and this issue has been ongoing since 2017. Customers who have attempted to contact the company to resolve these delivery problems have often found themselves blocked or ignored. This lack of accountability is deeply concerning and indicative of a company that does not prioritize customer satisfaction.
from Endo end Endoathletics, Blaming Suppliers
One troubling aspect of EndoAthletics’ business practices is its tendency to shift blame onto its suppliers. Suppliers have reported that EndoAthletics has failed to pay them the full amount for services rendered. This not only affects the reputation of the suppliers but also has a ripple effect on the entire supply chain. It is essential to hold companies accountable for their financial obligations to ensure fair and ethical business practices.
McDojoLife’s Assessment
The popular martial arts and fitness platform, McDojoLife, has expressed serious concerns about EndoAthletics and its owner, Douglas Mackie. McDojoLife described interactions with Mackie as “like talking to a child about how to run a business.” This unprofessional behavior and lack of business acumen are alarming, considering the trust customers place in EndoAthletics when making fitness-related purchases.
Refund and Repeat: A Troubling Pattern
EndoAthletics seems to have a pattern of briefly addressing customer complaints by issuing refunds but then resuming its problematic practices. Customers have reported that after McDojoLife contacted Mackie, some were refunded for orders dating back over five years. However, this was short-lived, as EndoAthletics once again failed to deliver on orders and started blocking consumers, leaving them in a state of frustration and disappointment.
Understanding Consumer Fraud
Consumer fraud, as defined by legal experts at Winston & Strawn LLP, refers to deceptive business practices that cause consumers to suffer financial or other losses. It involves luring victims into believing they are participating in a legitimate business transaction when, in reality, they are being defrauded. False promises, inaccurate claims, and practices that cheat consumers out of their hard-earned money are hallmarks of consumer fraud.
Name Changes and Deceptive Practices
EndoAthletics’ track record is further marred by its frequent name changes. The company has also operated under the names “Imperial” and “Jitzilla.” Such name changes can be indicative of an attempt to evade accountability and create a fresh facade to attract unsuspecting consumers. It is crucial for consumers to be aware of these name changes and the company’s history of deceptive practices.
Taking Action
If you have fallen victim to EndoAthletics’ deceptive practices, it is essential to take action to protect yourself and others from similar experiences. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides a platform for consumers to report fraud through their website at Reportfraud.ftc.gov. By reporting your experience, you can contribute to the prevention of further fraudulent activities and help authorities take appropriate action.
Real-Life Testimonies
Real-life experiences from consumers who have dealt with EndoAthletics serve as a stark warning to potential customers. One consumer, Geoff Grant, expressed his frustration by saying, “The absolute audacity of this prick. Still waiting for this Gi 18 months later.” These firsthand accounts underscore the urgency of being cautious when considering doing business with EndoAthletics.
The Douglas Mackie Factor
At the center of these troubling business practices is Douglas Mackie, the owner of EndoAthletics. His actions, such as allegedly flaking on deals with suppliers and failing to honor agreements, has resulted in financial turmoil for others. For instance, allegedly after agreeing to a deal with a producer in Pakistan for 16 kimonos at the cost of $720, Mackie allegedly paid only $80, leaving the supplier, Best Craft, in a dire financial situation according to their representative Shoaib Ahmed .
Community Awareness
In response to the numerous complaints and grievances against EndoAthletics, concerned individuals have created a Facebook group called “ENDO ATHLETICS MACKIE bad business stories.” This group serves as a platform for consumers to share their experiences and raise awareness about the company’s questionable practices. It is through such grassroots efforts that consumers can protect one another from falling victim to scams and unscrupulous businesses.
EndoAthletics’ track record of consumer fraud, poor customer service, and unethical business practices should serve as a stern warning to all potential customers. The company’s failure to address delivery issues, its tendency to blame suppliers, and the unprofessional behavior of its owner, Douglas Mackie, all contribute to its alarming reputation.
In the world of fitness and athletics, it is crucial to choose companies that prioritize customer satisfaction, ethical conduct, and transparency. As consumers, we must remain vigilant and report fraudulent activities to protect ourselves and our fellow consumers. By sharing our experiences and raising awareness about companies like EndoAthletics, we can collectively work towards a marketplace that values integrity and fairness above all else. Remember, knowledge is your best defense against scams and fraudulent businesses, so always do your research and exercise caution when making purchases in the fitness industry.
Endoathletics & DJ MAckie’s response to allegations
We reached out to EndoAthletics for comment, and to our surprise, Douglas Mackie did acknowledge our message by taking a look at our Instagram account & messaging us back. In our conversation, Mackie expressed his belief that he has been completely transparent in his dealings. He reassured us that he actively makes posts to address any concerns and allegations against him. According to Mackie, he considers the allegations to be nothing more than half-truths meant to tarnish his reputation.
Mackie highlighted that EndoAthletics is still working diligently to resolve delayed deliveries from several years ago. He acknowledged the importance of addressing these issues promptly, ensuring that their customers receive the products they have ordered years ago… and see’s no issues with these long delays in service.
In our exchange, he made it clear that he has no intention of engaging in a back-and-forth with another journalist. He prefers to focus on his work and the continued growth of EndoAthletics. We respected his decision and left him to his own devices.
Our primary objective in reaching out to Mackie and EndoAthletics was to provide an honest opportunity for him to defend himself against the allegations. However, we cannot assume responsibility if he chooses to continue being dishonest with stakeholders and the public. Ultimately, the consequences of such actions will fall upon him, and he must bear the weight of any potential ramifications.
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