Think you can fly? Well, at least that’s what you might believe after 20 years of Red Bull’s slogan “Red Bull gives you wings.” According to BevNet, a beverage industry publication, a US class action lawsuit has forced Red Bull to agree to pay out $13 million for making false advertising claims.



Obviously no one actually thinks that wings would magically appear out of your back, but when Red Bull uses words like “boost”, it gives consumers the impression that they would feel a type of enhancement and mental or physical revitalization.

Many may think this is petty but even in metaphoric speech the statement is false. The company claims in its marketing campaign that the drink can improve concentration and reaction speed which were determined false with lack of scientific support.

The plaintiff consists of a group of Red Bull drinkers who brought the lawsuit on the company. One claimed he has been drinking the product since 2002 and has seen no improvement in his performance. If the US District Court of the Southern District of New York passes the settlement, Red Bull will be required to pay $6.5 million into a settlement fund within a week. The settlement says Red Bull will reimburse customers with either a check for $10 or $15 of credit for Red Bull products.

“Red Bull settled the lawsuit to avoid the cost and distraction of litigation. However, Red Bull maintains that its marketing and labeling have always been truthful and accurate, and denies any and all wrongdoing or liability.”

The court will hold a hearing on May 1, 2015 to decide on settlement approval. Reimbursements would be released within 150 days after the settlement approval. No proof of purchase is necessary to obtain a reimbursement. There are four ways to submit a Claim: