Discount After Coupon Expiry: Sosie, the Aesthetic Salon, Suspected of Violating the Prize Control Law
Sosie, a company operating aesthetic salons across Japan, is facing suspicion of violating prize display laws due to misleading discount coupons available even after their expiration dates.
Sosie World, which manages aesthetic salons under the brand 'Aesthetic Salon Sosie' throughout Japan, has come under scrutiny for allegedly publishing discount coupons that violate the Prize Control Law. These coupons were displayed on various salon pages within an online booking site from September 2021 to May 2025, suggesting discounts that were applicable even after the stated expiration dates. For instance, a service designed to alleviate swelling, originally priced at 31,185 yen, was advertised for 4,400 yen for a limited period through a coupon, which could mislead consumers regarding the true nature of the discount.
Upon being alerted by the Consumer Affairs Agency about these discrepancies, Sosie World submitted a plan to prevent recurrence, which was approved on the 3rd of the month. The company operates 41 aesthetic salons domestically and has committed to sincerely fulfilling the corrective measures outlined in its plan. This self-regulatory effort aims to prevent future violations and uphold consumer protection laws, showing the company's responsive stance towards the regulatory body.
The system allowing businesses to create corrective plans to address suspected unfair practices was introduced with the revised Prize Control Law in 2024, aiming for swift resolution of issues. By adhering to the approved plan, companies can avoid penalties such as administrative orders or fines, reinforcing the importance of compliance and consumer trust in the industry.