Promotional Contest - Video Screen Advertisement

In August 2008, a Canadian association of retail stores sought a written opinion on whether a proposed promotional contest would raise concerns under the Competition Act.

The contest would be advertised via video screens in each retail store. The video screens would display a “short list” of the contest rules, and would direct the potential entrant to a Web site that would reveal the full contest rules and complete prize details. The only method of entering the contest would be via the Web site.

The Bureau provided an opinion on September 5, 2008 that if implemented, the proposed promotional contest would not provide the Commissioner with grounds to commence an inquiry under section 74.06 of the Act. In the Bureau’s view, the contest would adequately disclose the number and approximate value of prizes, the area or areas to which they relate, and any important information relating to the chances of winning.

(3102668)