BBB: Research Marketing Agencies Before Signing On

By Paula FlemingBetter Business Bureau
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NATICK, Mass.
In today's rough economy, businesses are looking for fresh ways to promote and market their products or services. They sometimes choose to turn to outside marketing agencies to help them. However, Better Business Bureau warns businesses that TLC Marketing of Boston tops its list of "Most Complained about Businesses."
 
With a BBB Rating of F, TLC Marketing has generated more than 1,000 complaints in the last 36 months. The business states that it is a promotional agency that helps businesses offer rewards to their customers that include travel vouchers for free flights, cruises and hotels. TLC Marketing received an F rating because of concerns about the industry that the business operates in, as well as the extensive number of complaints filed against the business.
 
"As always, BBB encourages consumers to take the time to obtain a business review before making any purchasing decisions," said Paula Fleming, vice president of communications and marketing for BBB. "Although TLC Marketing has attempted to resolve their 1,000-plus complaints, BBB has determined that over 200 customers remain unsatisfied."

BBB received 212 complaints against TLC's service department, with consumers complaining that service deadlines were delayed. BBB also processed several complaints in which consumers complained that contracts or agreements with TLC Marketing were not honored and that TLC Marketing failed to respond to phone calls or written requests for support.
 
For more business advice you can trust, including information about marketing your products and services, check out bbb.org and Start With Trust.

Paula Fleming is vice president of communications and marketing for BBB in Boston. BBB is an unbiased non-profit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. For more guidance finding work and avoiding money-making scams, go to bbb.org
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Dalton Day Returns This Saturday

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff
DALTON, Mass. — The town's popular Dalton Day festival is returning this weekend after a year's hiatus.
 
The event will kick off this Saturday at 11 a.m. and runs until 4 p.m. in the field in front of the Senior Center. 
 
The community celebration was established in 2023 by the Cultural Council in an effort to increase resident participation at town meetings while also showcasing the area's welcoming, diverse, artistic and sporty atmosphere. In 2024, the event brought together 300 residents. 
 
"The primary mission of Dalton Day is to foster a strong sense of community, build civic pride, and bring residents together through a shared celebration of local culture, music, and food," said Jeannie Ingram, Select Board member and cultural council chair, and Lori Venezia, executive assistant to the town manager. 
 
The event provides an accessible and free platform for "civic education, community bonding, and supporting local businesses, artisans, makers, and culture more broadly," they said.
 
The festival strengthens the fabric of the town both civically and economically by connecting grassroots organizations with residents, fostering a shared sense of belonging, and providing free, family-friendly entertainment.
 
It also serves as an opportunity for community members to meet with local officials and a couple of state officials. State Sen. Paul Mark and state Rep. Leigh Davis will be coming from Beacon Hill to speak at the event. 
 
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