Worcester Bosch revises boiler advert claims after CMA probe

An investigation launched last year looked at whether Worcester Bosch had made ‘confusing or inaccurate’ claims

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has secured formal commitments from Worcester Bosch to not make ‘misleading’ marketing claims about the hydrogen-readiness of the company’s boilers.

The consumer watchdog announced an investigation last year into whether Worcester Bosch had misled shoppers with ‘confusing or inaccurate’ claims in the advertising and labelling of its boiler products.

The CMA has closed the investigation after the company formally committed that its marketing material will not mislead consumers on the environmental benefits and future-proofing of its boilers.

The watchdog expressed concern that Worcester Bosch’s claims could give the false impression that buying the company’s boiler, described as ‘hydrogen-blend ready’, would enable consumers to reduce their carbon footprint and future-proof their heating system. It said consumers would be in the same position with other boilers on the market.

In addition, the CMA was concerned that Worcester Bosch did not make clear to consumers the uncertainties surrounding whether hydrogen might be used for home heating in the future.

Hayley Fletcher, interim senior director, consumer protection at the CMA, said: ‘Our action – including the changes secured from Worcester Bosch – will help to ensure that consumers looking for a new heating system are provided with clear and accurate information.’