Recall and crisis management
Foods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and many other consumer products are increasingly the subject of recalls—in many cases based on the construction or composition of the product. A recall attracts media attention and may negatively affect a manufacturer’s reputation and brand name; it could also result in the commencement of class action litigation against the manufacturer and, potentially, all others involved in the chain of distribution.
Our team has broad experience—involving both recall and near-recall situations—advising clients across a wide range of industries on products such as medical devices, over-the-counter and prescription drugs, biologics, natural health products, electrical equipment, toys including jewellery, all foods, cosmetics and CSA approved products. We advise and represent domestic and international clients on all of the issues related to product recalls.
In addition to the significant upfront expense of recalling a product, the impact after a recall—loss of sales, intangible damage to the company’s reputation and cost of ensuing litigation—can be even greater.
The team provides advice on crisis management planning, crisis communications, loss prevention and recall strategies. Our goal is to help clients prevent a recall or manage and contain recall incidents.
We offer you advice on
- averting product recalls
- liaising with regulatory authorities
- managing and containing product recall incidents
- communicating with stakeholders and consumers
- managing issues arising from product tampering
- minimizing product liability (individual and class action) risk
- managing reputational risk