Business ProfileforUltra Rare Apparel

On 12-13-2017, BBB began an investigation of Ultra Rare Apparel based on an emerging pattern of complaints and inquiries by consumers.  At that time, nine (9) complaints had been received in less than 30 days, where all had the same general pattern: the consumer's order would be placed online with the company; the consumers would received no confirmation of the order; the payment for that order would be withdrawn from their accounts within 1-2 days; no shipment of the purchase would be made; consumer attempts to reach customer service would be met with silence.  The business did not notify the consumer of shipments that would exceed 30 days after purchase, giving them the option of continuing to wait for the shipment or be refunded their money, as required by law.  By 03-01-2018, 89 complaints against this business have been received by BBB.  At this time, 49 of those complaints have been closed, but BBB has received no response from the business.  Nine (9) customers did inform BBB that they finally received their orders.

The initial concern of the investigation was the possibility that this internet start-up could be a scam, in which sales were made, money was collected, and no product was shipped in return by the business.  BBB could not find a registration with the state, the business could not be verified to the location provided by consumers, and the identity of the owners could not be initially determined.  Through diligent efforts, BBB's investigators were able to piece together small bits of information to determine the identifies of the business owners.  BBB contacted the business owner at the location and confirmed that Ultra Rare Apparel was utilizing space with the permission of the business at the location given.  Several attempts were made to communicate with Ultra Rare by mail, email and phone contact to address the issues, but have not received any response.  The CT Department of Consumer Protection has been made aware of BBB's concerns regarding this business.

BBB warns consumers to try limiting their purchase activity to businesses they know or are confident about legitimacy.  Consumers should also use credit cards, not debit cards, to make purchases because of the fraud protection provided by major credit card institutions.  Predatory behavior continues to be a problem in the marketplace, and those that practice it are continuing to increase in sophistication,  If there is any question or doubt, we recommend contacting your BBB regarding businesses from whom they intend to make a purchase, especially those businesses that are strictly found online.  In addition, BBB Business Profiles continue to be a valuable resource, and remain free to the consumer.