Month: April 2025

New York, NY – April 22, 2025 – As part of its marketplace monitoring program, BBB National Programs’ National Advertising Division recommended that Apple Inc. modify or discontinue advertising claims regarding the availability of certain features associated with the launch of its AI-powered Apple Intelligence tool in the U.S.

The National Advertising Division’s (NAD) inquiry focused on express and implied claims made on the Apple Intelligence webpage and in promotional materials for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro that conveyed the availability of certain Apple Intelligence features, including Priority Notifications, Image Generation tools (Image Playground, Genmoji, and Image Wand), ChatGPT integration into Siri and Writing Tools, and new Siri capabilities.

Availability Claims

NAD found that Apple’s unqualified “Available Now” claim, positioned at the top of its Apple Intelligence webpage and above detailed feature descriptions, reasonably conveyed the message that all listed features—including Priority Notifications, Image Playground, Genmoji, Image Wand, and ChatGPT integration—were available at the launch of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro.

Although Apple launched these features in staggered software updates between October 2024 and March 2025, NAD found that these claims were not properly supported at the time they were first made. NAD further found that Apple’s disclosures—such as footnotes and small-print disclosures—were neither sufficiently clear and conspicuous nor close to the triggering claims.

While these features are now available, NAD recommended Apple avoid conveying the message that features are available when they are not.

Siri Functionality

NAD also reviewed claims that Apple Intelligence enabled new Siri functionality, including onscreen awareness, personal context, and cross-app actions. These claims also appeared under the “Available Now” heading.

During the inquiry, Apple informed NAD that these Siri features would not be available on the original timeline and that it had updated its promotional materials accordingly and modified claims and disclosures to adequately communicate their status.

Additionally, Apple also permanently discontinued the “More Personal Siri” video demonstration. Therefore, NAD did not review these claims and will treat them, for compliance purposes, as though NAD recommended they be discontinued.

In its advertiser statement, Apple Inc. stated “While we disagree with the NAD’s findings related to features that are available to users now, we appreciate the opportunity to work with them and will follow their recommendations.”

All BBB National Programs case decision summaries can be found in the case decision library. For the full text of NAD, National Advertising Review Board, and Children’s Advertising Review Unit decisions, subscribe to the online archive. Per NAD/NARB procedures, this release may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes.

About BBB National Programs: BBB National Programs, a non-profit organization, is the home of U.S. independent industry self-regulation, currently operating more than a dozen globally recognized programs that have been helping enhance consumer trust in business for more than 50 years. These programs provide third-party accountability and dispute resolution services that address existing and emerging industry issues, create a fairer playing field for businesses, and a better experience for consumers. BBB National Programs continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in arenas such as advertising, child-and-teen-directed marketing, data privacy, dispute resolution, automobile warranty, technology, and emerging areas. To learn more, visit bbbprograms.org.

About the National Advertising Division: The National Advertising Division of BBB National Programs provides independent self-regulation and dispute resolution services, guiding the truthfulness of advertising across the U.S. The National Advertising Division reviews national advertising in all media and its decisions set consistent standards for advertising truth and accuracy, delivering meaningful protection to consumers and promoting fair competition for business.

• Sorekara in Orlando receives Two MICHELIN Stars
• Two restaurants earn a MICHELIN Green Star and four earn One Star
• Selection includes three new destinations: Greater Fort Lauderdale, The Palm Beaches and St. Pete-Clearwater

ORLANDO, Fla., April 17, 2025— The recently expanded MICHELIN Guide Florida selection has been revealed for 2025 and it features one new Two MICHELIN Star restaurant and four new One MICHELIN Star restaurants. The full selection was announced this evening at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at the Walt Disney World Resort.

In total, 31 restaurants were awarded Stars by the anonymous Inspectors, with Sorekara in Orlando being the newest Two MICHELIN Starred restaurant. This year’s selection also welcomed two new Green Stars in Miami with EntreNos and Stubborn Seed being recognized for their efforts in sustainable gastronomy. The full selection, including Bib Gourmands and recommended restaurants, totals 172 eateries spanning 39 cuisine types.

“Florida has proven to be an international culinary destination, with the expansion to three new cities and five restaurants being welcomed into the MICHELIN Star family in this year’s selection,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guides. “Our anonymous Inspectors continued to be delighted by Florida’s culinary community, and we congratulate all of the chefs and restaurants being honored in this year’s selection.”

Here are the new MICHELIN Star restaurants, with Inspector notes from each (Inspectors’ comments in full on the MICHELIN Guide website and mobile app):

Two MICHELIN Stars

Sorekara (Orlando; Japanese cuisine)

In a world of uniformity, Sorekara proudly forges its own path. This Baldwin Park restaurant is unlike anywhere else you’ve been, offering a surprising and delightful culinary journey that revels in turning expectations on their head. Chef/owner William Shen’s tasting menu highlights Japan’s 72 micro seasons with highly original dishes infused with a sense of whimsy (note the course designed to mimic a convenience store snack run or the “nigiri”). Whether it’s madai sporting a distinctive riff on tradition or a deeply savory bowl of kegani sourced from Hokkaido, there is an elegance and refinement threaded throughout the meal, which progresses through multiple rooms across several hours. Another hint that this is far from typical? Sorekara is open for one seating only a few nights a week.

One MICHELIN Star 

Chef’s Counter at MAASS (Fort Lauderdale; Contemporary cuisine)

The Chef’s Counter enjoys a prime spot inside the MAASS dining room at the Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale, and this stylish perch facing the large, open kitchen offers a distinctive dining experience. Chef Ryan Ratino’s tasting menu, in the hands of Chef David Brito, is a beautiful tribute to contemporary cooking with French techniques, Japanese ingredients, and a few Florida highlights. Ingredients take center stage in courses like the single seared diver scallop over a truffle puree. Designed as an upmarket riff on chicken noodle soup, it’s finished with a velvety broth. A delicate bowl of koshihikari rice cooked in a donabe with maitake mushroom and a Comté foam is excellent from start to finish. Finally, kakigori with candied nuts and fresh raspberries is a delightful conclusion.

Itamae Ao (Miami; Peruvian/Japanese cuisine)

A restaurant within a restaurant, this 10-seat counter by Chef Nando Chang in Midtown looks to set a new standard for Nikkei cuisine in the region. Those familiar with the chef’s past work in the Design District will take heart in how classic Peruvian-Japanese flavors as well as signature dishes have been reworked, reimagined and refined. Searing levels of acidity and spice figure prominently on this bold tasting menu, often in the form of leche de tigre. From lobster bisque with sweet potato gnocchi to creamy rice with Hokkaido scallops and parmesan, the cooking possesses style and substance in spades. Sourcing is a priority, with whole fish flown in from Japan, later to be broken down and occasionally strung up in dry-aging fridges along the wall.

Konro (West Palm Beach; Contemporary cuisine)

Chef Jacob Bickelhaupt and sommelier Nadia Bickelhaupt preside over this beautiful, and intimate, counter set within a mixed-use building in West Palm Beach. Bold cooking takes center stage here, where an affinity for rich, umami-packed dishes surprise diners. Meals begin with snacks; the foie gras mousse in a chicken-skin cone is a highlight. The chef’s creativity is displayed in dishes like barley risotto with enoki mushrooms, caramelized crispy fried onions, and black truffle shavings, served in a golden egg. Binchotan grilled wagyu in a house-made soy sauce with a poached carrot dotted with celery root and brown butter purée evolves with each bite. A beautiful bowl of coconut and passion fruit sherbet with shortbread cookie crumble delivers a memorable ending.

Ômo by Jônt (Orlando; Contemporary cuisine)

Chef Ryan Ratino’s lauded D.C. restaurant, Jônt, is more than just the inspiration for this offshoot. This Winter Park restaurant echoes that spirit and sensibility (think classic French techniques married with pristine Japanese ingredients), albeit with a few Florida touches. The space allows for discrete moments at each meal, while three tasting menus run the gamut from tightly edited and more affordable to loaded with luxury ingredients. No matter the selection, expect Chef Mike Commins’ refined dishes punctuated by the seasons, as in chawanmushi with an autumnal twist of braised sweet potato, kombu, and a brown butter sauce. Scallop prepared two ways demonstrates the kitchen’s deft hand while chocolate and hazelnut kakigori is an elegant tribute.

MICHELIN Green Star

EntreNos (Miami; Contemporary cuisine)

Initiatives: locally sourced produce and land-based protein; sustainably sourced seafood; dinnerware crafted by Miami-based artisan; organic and biodynamic wine program; food waste repurposed into vinegars and sauces.

Stubborn Seed (Miami; Contemporary cuisine)

Initiatives: ingredients sourced from Chef Jeremy Ford’s 5.5-acre farm; composting program repurposes food waste to be collected and used at the farm; initiatives to reduce carbon footprint of restaurant; partnership with Compost for Life, a community compost program in the Miami Beach area.

Bib Gourmand

The MICHELIN Guide Inspectors gave 36 restaurants the Bib Gourmand distinction, which recognizes eateries for great food at a great value. The full list can be found below.

Florida’s 2025 Bib Gourmand restaurants

MICHELIN Special Awards

In addition to the Bib Gourmands and Stars, the Guide announced four Special Awards:

The MICHELIN Guide Ceremony is presented with the support of Capital One.

Hotels

The restaurants join the MICHELIN Guide selection of hotels, which features the most unique and exciting places to stay in Florida and throughout the world.

Each hotel in the selection has been chosen by MICHELIN Guide experts for its extraordinary style, service and personality — with options for all budgets — and each can be booked directly through the MICHELIN Guide website and app. The selection for Florida features the state’s most spectacular hotels, including the only private island resort in North America, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa (three MICHELIN Keys), the iconic White Elephant Palm Beach (one MICHELIN Key), or sustainability pioneers like the Hotel Greystone (one MICHELIN Key).

The MICHELIN Guide is a benchmark in gastronomy. Now it’s setting a new standard for hotels. Visit the MICHELIN Guide website, or download the free app for iOS and Android, to discover every restaurant in the selection and book an unforgettable hotel.

Florida’s 2025 MICHELIN-Green-Starred restaurants

Florida’s 2025 MICHELIN-Starred restaurants

 

Florida’s 2025 Recommended restaurants

The MICHELIN Guide in North America

Michelin announced its first North American Guide in 2005 for New York. Guides have also been added in Chicago (2011); Washington, D.C. (2017); California (San Francisco in 2007, statewide 2019); Florida (Greater Miami, Orlando and Tampa in 2022, adding Greater Fort Lauderdale, The Palm Beaches and St. Pete-Clearwater in 2025,statewide in 2026); Toronto (2022); Vancouver (2022); Colorado (2023); Atlanta (2023), Mexico (2024), Texas (2024), Quebec (2024) and the American South (2025).

About the MICHELIN Guide

Recognized globally for excellence and quality, the MICHELIN Guide offers a selection of world-class restaurants.

• The famous one, two and three MICHELIN Stars identify establishments serving exceptional cuisine that’s rich in flavor, remarkably executed and infused with the personality of a talented chef.
• The Bib Gourmand is a designation given to select restaurants that offer good quality food for a good value – often known as personal favorites among the Inspectors when dining on their own time.
• The MICHELIN Green Star honors restaurants that are pioneers in sustainable
• Recommended restaurants and special professional awards are also highlighted by the MICHELIN Guide

The MICHELIN Guide remains a reliable companion for any traveler seeking an unforgettable meal and hospitality experience. The Guide was first published in France at the turn of the 20th century to encourage the development of car mobility as well as tire sales by giving practical advice to motorists. Progressively, the Guide has specialized in restaurant and hotel recommendations. Michelin’s Inspectors still use the same criteria and manner of selection that were used by the Inspectors in the very beginning.

The restaurant selections join the MICHELIN Guide selection of hotels, which features the most unique and exciting places to stay around the world. Visit the MICHELIN Guide website, or download the free app for iOS and Android, to discover every restaurant in the selection and book an amazing hotel.

Thanks to the rigorous MICHELIN Guide selection process that is applied independently and consistently in more than 50 destinations, the MICHELIN Guide has become an international benchmark in fine dining.

All restaurants in the Guide are recommended by Michelin’s anonymous Inspectors, who are trained to apply the same time-tested methods used by Michelin Inspectors for many decades throughout the world. This ensures a uniform, international standard of excellence. As a further guarantee of complete objectivity, Michelin Inspectors pay all their bills in full, and only the quality of the cuisine is evaluated.

To fully assess the quality of a restaurant, the Inspectors apply five criteria defined by Michelin: product quality; mastery of cooking techniques; harmony of flavors; the personality of the chef as reflected in the cuisine; and consistency over time and across the entire menu. These criteria guarantee a consistent and fair selection so a Starred restaurant has the same value regardless of whether it is in Paris, New York or anywhere else in the world.

About Michelin North America, Inc.

Michelin is building a world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences.

Pioneering engineered materials for more than 130 years, Michelin is uniquely positioned to make decisive contributions to human progress and to a more sustainable world.

Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composites, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high- quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies and healthcare.

The care placed in its products and deep customer knowledge inspire Michelin to offer the finest experiences. This spans from providing data- and AI-based connected solutions for professional fleets to recommending outstanding restaurants and hotels curated by the MICHELIN Guide.

Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America, Inc. has approximately 23,500 employees and operates 36 production facilities in the United States (michelinman.com) and Canada (michelin.ca).

About Capital One

At Capital One we’re on a mission for our customers – bringing them best-in-class products, rewards, service, and experiences. Capital One is a diversified bank that offers products and services to individuals, small businesses and commercial clients. We use technology, innovation, and interaction to provide consumers with products and services to meet their needs. Through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment, we provide our rewards cardholders with access to unforgettable experiences in the areas they’re passionate about, including dining, music and sports. Learn more at capitalone.com/dining and capitalone.com/entertainment.

New York, NY – April 15, 2025 – Today, BBB National Programs launches its podcast, “Beyond the Influence,” a new series that delves into the world of influencer marketing, exploring the lives, partnerships, and best practices of renowned influencers and athletes.

Through candid conversations and expert insights, the series reveals the strategies behind successful influencer marketing and endorsement campaigns, emphasizing the importance of transparency and authenticity in partnerships.

Hosted by BBB National Programs’ Tueré Rodriguez, the podcast kicks off with guest Martin Bowier, Director of Influencer & Talent Marketing for the National Football League (NFL), who shares behind-the-scenes stories that provide listeners with an understanding of influencer marketing within one of the world’s most popular sports leagues.

“This podcast is a valuable resource for influencers and brands, offering insights and practical advice on truthful and transparent advertising practices that drive responsible marketing campaigns,” said Rodriguez. “These are authentic stories from the people who have lived them, providing listeners with real-world experiences and lessons.”

Episode Guide

• Episode 1: Tackling Influencer Marketing
  Guest: Martin Bowier, Director of Influencer & Talent Marketing, NFL
• Episode 2: Beyond the Game: Clinton Portis on Perseverance, Brand Partnerships, and the Future of NIL
  Guest: Clinton Portis, 2x Pro Bowl Running Back & Current Coach for Delaware State University Hornets
• Episode 3: Beyond the Court: Ty Young’s Journey
  Guest: Tamera “Ty” Young, Former WNBA player & Current Assistant Coach for the Chicago Sky
• Episode 4: Content Queens: Building a Personal Brand
  Guests: Olivia Davis and Zainab Okeowo, Fashion and Beauty Content Creators and Brand Ambassadors
• Episode 5: Tackling Two Passions: Endurance on and off the Court
  Guest: Tommie Harris, 3x Pro Bowl Defensive Tackle and Current Country Music Artist
• Episode 6: Luxury, Lifestyle, and Influence
  Guests: Kirstie Pike and Christine Diaz, Award-Winning Luxury, Lifestyle, and Fashion Content Creators

Watch the trailer and subscribe to the podcast here.

About BBB National Programs: BBB National Programs, a non-profit organization, is the home of U.S. independent industry self-regulation, currently operating more than a dozen globally recognized programs that have been helping enhance consumer trust in business for more than 50 years. These programs provide third-party accountability and dispute resolution services that address existing and emerging industry issues, create a fairer playing field for businesses, and a better experience for consumers. BBB National Programs continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in arenas such as advertising, child-and-teen-directed marketing, data privacy, dispute resolution, automobile warranty, technology, and emerging areas. To learn more, visit bbbprograms.org.

New York, NY – April 14, 2025 – In a challenge brought by the Procter & Gamble Company (P&G), BBB National Programs’ National Advertising Division recommended that Rascals International Limited discontinue the following claims for its Rascals brand diapers:

• “Hydrolock Core^TM holds up to 25 x its weight” and “absorbs 15 x its weight”
• “Parents are Happier with Rascals”

The National Advertising Division (NAD) also recommended that Rascals modify or discontinue claims touting the total number of 5-star reviews received by Rascals products.

Hydrolock Core^TM Claims

NAD determined that the claims “Hydrolock Core^TM holds up to 25 x its weight” and “absorbs 15 x its weight” are performance claims and reasonable consumers will understand them as conveying messages about the absorption performance they can expect from Rascals diapers in real life – even if the diapers will rarely if ever be tasked with holding 15 times their weight or 25 times the weight of the core.

NAD concluded that these claims were not supported by reliable absorption testing and recommended they be discontinued.

“210,000+ 5-star reviews of Rascals Products*”

*“Based on all reviews of Rascals diapers, training pants and wipes across websites globally, including incentivized and organic reviews.

NAD determined that Rascals’ 5-star reviews claim, which was modified during the proceeding, conveys a message of brand-wide satisfaction and that the claim did not require further disclosure because the disclosure clearly indicates that it is based on both incentivized and organic reviews.

However, Rascals did not provide any evidence to support the “210,000+” figure nor any evidence as to its reviews collection process and the controls in place to avoid double counting. Therefore, NAD determined that the claim “210,000+ 5-Star Reviews of Rascals Products” was not supported and recommended that it be discontinued or modified to reflect the results of sound and credible counts of Rascals’ 5-star reviews.

NAD also found that the disclosure was not clear and conspicuous and recommended that to the extent Rascals elects to modify its 5-star reviews claim going forward, the accompanying disclosure must be clearly and conspicuously displayed on the same page and in close proximity to the claim.

“Parents are Happier with Rascals”

Regarding the claim that “parents are happier with Rascals,” NAD determined that Rascals’ use of the relative word “happier” reasonably conveys not merely consumer “happiness” with Rascals diapers, but also that they are more happy as compared to their experience with other brands. In the absence of a consumer survey or other preference evidence to support this comparative claim, NAD concluded that it was not supported and recommended it be discontinued.

During the proceeding, Rascals agreed to permanently discontinue certain claims concerning its diapers’ absorbency and leakage protection performance, as well as that its diapers are “pediatrician recommended” and “allergy tested.”. Therefore, NAD did not review these claims and will treat them, for compliance purposes, as though NAD recommended they be discontinued.

In its advertiser statement, Rascals stated that while it “respectfully disagrees with NAD’s conclusions,” it will comply with NAD’s recommendations.

All BBB National Programs case decision summaries can be found in the case decision library. For the full text of NAD, NARB, and CARU decisions, subscribe to the online archive. This press release shall not be used for advertising or promotional purposes.

About BBB National Programs: BBB National Programs, a non-profit organization, is the home of U.S. independent industry self-regulation, currently operating more than a dozen globally recognized programs that have been helping enhance consumer trust in business for more than 50 years. These programs provide third-party accountability and dispute resolution services that address existing and emerging industry issues, create a fairer playing field for businesses, and a better experience for consumers. BBB National Programs continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in arenas such as advertising, child-and-teen-directed marketing, data privacy, dispute resolution, automobile warranty, technology, and emerging areas. To learn more, visit bbbprograms.org.

About the National Advertising Division: The National Advertising Division of BBB National Programs provides independent self-regulation and dispute resolution services, guiding the truthfulness of advertising across the U.S. The National Advertising Division reviews national advertising in all media and its decisions set consistent standards for advertising truth and accuracy, delivering meaningful protection to consumers and leveling the playing field for business.

New York, NY – April 10, 2025 – BBB National Programs’ National Advertising Division has referred ASO LLC to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for failing to comply with its decision regarding advertising claims for its Hydrocolloid Gel Bandages.

In a prior National Advertising Division (NAD) case (Case #7325), Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. (JJCI) challenged ASO’s claims that its Hydrocolloid Gel Bandages provide “2x faster healing.”

NAD found that the “2x faster healing” claim was not supported and recommended its discontinuation. ASO agreed to comply with NAD’s recommendations.

In January 2025, NAD initiated a compliance proceeding at the behest of JJCI based on their concerns about ASO’s compliance. In its response, ASO indicated that it would remove the claims from its packaging “upon depletion of current inventories” and that it had limited control over third-party retailer compliance.

NAD found that while ASO had taken some steps to remove the “up to 2x faster healing” claim from online advertising, noncompliant claims persisted on product packaging and third-party retail websites, and it made the following recommendations based on its review:

• Third-Party Retailer Advertising: Despite removing some links, numerous non-compliant claims remained in product descriptions on third-party retailer websites. NAD recommended ASO expeditiously contact retailers to remove these claims and replace non-compliant images.
• Product Packaging: ASO’s plan to remove non-compliant claims only upon depletion of existing inventory was deemed insufficient. NAD emphasized that changes to product packaging should have commenced immediately following the initial decision. NAD also recommended exploring remedial measures, such as stickering, given the elapsed time.

ASO refused to comply with NAD’s recommendations. Consequently, NAD has referred the matter to the appropriate government agencies, in this case the FTC and FDA, and platforms where the advertising claims appear and with which NAD has a reporting relationship.

All BBB National Programs case decision summaries can be found in the case decision library. For the full text of NAD, NARB, and CARU decisions, subscribe to the online archive. This press release shall not be used for advertising or promotional purposes.

About BBB National Programs: BBB National Programs, a non-profit organization, is the home of U.S. independent industry self-regulation, currently operating more than a dozen globally recognized programs that have been helping enhance consumer trust in business for more than 50 years. These programs provide third-party accountability and dispute resolution services that address existing and emerging industry issues, create a fairer playing field for businesses, and a better experience for consumers. BBB National Programs continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in arenas such as advertising, child-and-teen-directed marketing, data privacy, dispute resolution, automobile warranty, technology, and emerging areas. To learn more, visit bbbprograms.org.

About the National Advertising Division: The National Advertising Division of BBB National Programs provides independent self-regulation and dispute resolution services, guiding the truthfulness of advertising across the U.S. The National Advertising Division reviews national advertising in all media and its decisions set consistent standards for advertising truth and accuracy, delivering meaningful protection to consumers and leveling the playing field for business.

New York, NY – April 8, 2025 – In a Fast-Track SWIFT challenge filed by competitor Sleep Number Corporation, BBB National Programs’ National Advertising Division recommended that Tempur Sealy International, Inc. d/b/a Tempur-Pedic USA discontinue advertising that conveys disparaging messages about Sleep Number beds.

Fast-Track SWIFT is an expedited process by the National Advertising Division (NAD) for reviewing single-issue advertising cases.

Sleep Number and Tempur-Pedic are competitors in the premium mattress space, with Sleep Number specializing in adjustable air smart beds and Tempur-Pedic in foam-based beds.

Sleep Number challenged Tempur-Pedic’s advertising, specifically several social media posts on Facebook and Instagram, asserting they conveyed a false and disparaging message about the quality and functionality of Sleep Number beds.

NAD has long recognized that a competitor is free to highlight the actual differences between its product and competitor products and to make truthful and accurate advertising claims that may be perceived as denigrating to its competitors.

In this case, however, NAD found that the challenged advertising created a misleading impression, suggesting Sleep Number beds are comparable to temporary air mattresses that consumers would not use for their regular sleeping needs. NAD determined that this disparaging message was reinforced by the express language in the social media posts and videos.

Finding no evidence to support the message that Sleep Number beds are similar in quality to a flimsy inflatable object like a cheap air mattress, NAD recommended that Tempur-Pedic discontinue the challenged advertising.

All BBB National Programs case decision summaries can be found in the case decision library. For the full text of NAD, NARB, and CARU decisions, subscribe to the online archive. Pursuant to NAD/NARB Procedures, this release may not be used for promotional purposes.

About BBB National Programs: BBB National Programs, a non-profit organization, is the home of U.S. independent industry self-regulation, currently operating more than a dozen globally recognized programs that have been helping enhance consumer trust in business for more than 50 years. These programs provide third-party accountability and dispute resolution services that address existing and emerging industry issues, create a fairer playing field for businesses, and a better experience for consumers. BBB National Programs continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in arenas such as advertising, child-and-teen-directed marketing, data privacy, dispute resolution, automobile warranty, technology, and emerging areas. To learn more, visit bbbprograms.org.

About the National Advertising Division: The National Advertising Division (NAD) of BBB National Programs provides independent self-regulation and dispute resolution services, guiding the truthfulness of advertising across the U.S. NAD reviews national advertising in all media and its decisions set consistent standards for advertising truth and accuracy, delivering meaningful protection to consumers and leveling the playing field for business.  

• This will be the first regional Guide in North America
• Regional Guide will cover six states across the Southern U.S.
• MICHELIN Guide Inspectors are already in the field, finding culinary gems

GREENVILLE, S.C., APRIL 2, 2025 — Today the MICHELIN Guide announced its arrival to the Southern region of the United States, as Michelin and Travel South USA today revealed the MICHELIN Guide American South.

Through this regional approach, the MICHELIN Guide will be able to go beyond the main urban cities across the territory to better uncover the authentic food culture of the American South. Specifically, this edition of the Guide will cover Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and the pre-existing Atlanta Guide.

“We are excited to embark on this new journey for the MICHELIN Guide as this will be the first time since the Guide’s North American debut in 2005 that we are launching a regional selection,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guides. “The cuisine of the American South is a unique product of diverse influences creating an iconic array of specialties prepared by proud and impressive culinary talent.”

The MICHELIN Guide’s anonymous Inspectors are already in the field, making dining reservations and scouting for culinary gems throughout the region. The full 2025 restaurant selection will be revealed at a later date during the annual MICHELIN Guide ceremony for the American South.

“Travel South USA is thrilled to support the MICHELIN Guide coming to the American South. Our region has long deserved global recognition for its extraordinary farm-to-table cuisine, world-class seafood, and rich food culture—crafted by some of the world’s most creative and talented chefs,” shared Liz Bittner, president & CEO, Travel South USA. “We couldn’t be prouder to be the first region in the country to showcase our culinary assets in big cities and small towns on a global stage. A heartfelt thank you to the state tourism offices and destinations for their participation in this groundbreaking initiative.”

The MICHELIN Guide is constantly observing the evolution of culinary destinations around the world. The Guide’s selection process is determined by anonymous Inspectors and remains completely independent. The MICHELIN Guide is working with Travel South USA on marketing and promotional activities only.

History and methodology

The upcoming restaurant selection will follow Michelin’s historical methodology, based on five universal criteria, to ensure each destination’s selection equity: 1) quality products; 2) the harmony of flavors; 3) the mastery of cooking techniques; 4) the voice and personality of the chef as reflected in the cuisine; 5) consistency between each visit and throughout the menu (each restaurant is inspected several times a year).

The MICHELIN Guide remains a reliable companion for any traveler seeking a great meal. The Guide was first published in France at the turn of the 20th century to encourage tire sales by giving practical advice to French motorists. Michelin’s Inspectors still use the same criteria and manner of selection that were used by Inspectors in the very beginning, now applied in destinations around the world.

Michelin announced its first North American Guide in 2005 for New York. Guides have also been added in Chicago (2011); Washington, D.C. (2017); California (San Francisco in 2007, statewide 2019); Florida (Greater Miami, Orlando and Tampa in 2022, adding Greater Fort Lauderdale, The Palm Beaches and St. Pete-Clearwater in 2025, statewide in 2026); Toronto (2022); Vancouver (2022); Colorado (2023); Atlanta (2023), Mexico (2024), Texas (2024), Quebec (2024) and today, the American South (2025).

About Michelin North America, Inc.

Michelin is building a world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences. Pioneering engineered materials for more than 130 years, Michelin is uniquely positioned to make decisive contributions to human progress and to a more sustainable world.

Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composites, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high-quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies and healthcare.

The care placed in its products and deep customer knowledge inspire Michelin to offer the finest experiences. This spans from providing data- and AI-based connected solutions for professional fleets to recommending outstanding restaurants and hotels curated by the MICHELIN Guide.

Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America, Inc. has approximately 23,500 employees and operates 36 production facilities in the United States (michelinman.com) and Canada (michelin.ca).

About Travel South USA

Travel South USA is America’s oldest and largest regional travel promotion organization, formed in 1965 by a resolution presented at the Southern Governor’s Conference. The long-standing regional collaboration of the state tourism offices of Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia provides a foundation to positively position tourism as a vital and dynamic element in the region’s economic development. Tourism ranks throughout the region as one of the top industries behind manufacturing and agriculture, and is responsible for $220 billion in spending by visitors, generating 1.56 million direct jobs, and more than $15.5 billion in state and local taxes.

 

• Tire solution for CUVs, SUVs and light-duty pickups
• BFGoodrich performance at an everyday price
• Advantage Control HT adds 22 sizes to Advantage Control line

GREENVILLE, S.C., April 1, 2025 – BFGoodrich has launched the Advantage Control HT tire with performance and sizing that fit the needs of everyday drivers. Clear-cut benefits and accessible pricing help make the tire-buying process easy for consumers.

“BFGoodrich created the Advantage Control HT tire to simplify tire buying for modern drivers,” said Andrew Besancon, Senior Director of Recreational Brands. “This new tire provides consumers a comfortable, dependable option for everyday driving.”

The Advantage Control HT tire features a redesigned tread pattern, designed for a quieter, smoother ride. The Advantage Control HT tire also boasts improved braking distances – in both wet and dry conditions – and a 10% improvement in tread life compared with its predecessor, the Advantage Sport LT tire.

Excellent wet traction: The Advantage Control HT tire stops up to 9 feet shorter in wet conditions than the predecessor tire. Active sipe technology, all-season rubber compounds and a proprietary groove network are engineered to evacuate water from the contact patch and deliver outstanding grip year-round.

Long life span: The Advantage Control HT tire offers increased tread life (vs. predecessor tire) for today’s larger CUVs, full-size SUVs, and light duty pickups. The Advantage Control HT tire features an optimized footprint, full-depth tread features and silica-infused compounds, which work together to help deliver consistent performance and a smooth ride for the life of the tire.

Quiet comfort: The Advantage Control HT tire is designed for a quiet, enjoyable ride, thanks to its redesigned tread pattern.

Sizes and availability
BFGoodrich will unveil 22 sizes of the Advantage Control HT tire, bringing the total number of sizes in the Advantage Control line to 122. The Advantage Control HT tire carries a 70,000-mile limited mileage warranty and a 60-day satisfaction guarantee.

To find your size, availability and pricing, visit bfgoodrichtires.com or your local BFGoodrich dealer.

About BFGoodrich Tires
BFGoodrich Tires is dedicated to providing high performance tires for those who have a passion for driving in virtually any environment. Combining technical expertise with 50 years of motorsports experience, BFGoodrich delivers tires for a full range of driving experiences from ultra-high-performance street to off-road terrain with one common theme – extreme performance. Come upgrade your performance with BFGoodrich and see where our tires can take you at BFGoodrichTires.com and BFGoodrichRacing.com, as well as on Facebook and Instagram at @BFGoodrichTires and TikTok at @BFGoodrich.

Media contact:

Andrew Festa

BFGoodrich Tires | andrew.festa@michelin.com