Company Frames Warning Letter, Hangs It in Lobby Next to 'Best Place to Work' Award

Marking what executives called “an exciting milestone in our regulatory journey,” a gummy vitamin company this week unveiled a gold-framed warning letter in its headquarters lobby, positioned prominently between a “Best Place to Work” plaque and a photo of the CEO shaking hands with a trade association mascot.

“You don’t get one of these unless you’re doing something,” said CEO Craig Vandermolen, pointing to a paragraph that described the company’s claims that its product “reverses aging, cures sadness, and improves Wi-Fi reception.” “Most startups never get this kind of attention.”

The letter, which requests a written response within 15 working days, has been displayed for nine months. The company’s response is reportedly “in legal,” which employees confirmed is a cardboard box under the desk of regulatory manager Deb Hutchins.

Staff said the framed letter has quickly become a point of pride. New hires take photos with it during onboarding, and the marketing team has begun referring to it internally as “our first major press hit.”

Compliance consultant Ron Pettibone, who is not an attorney but does give legal advice all day, said the move was “bold” and “probably fine,” then invoiced for the sentence.

At press time, Vandermolen was reportedly having a second frame made, “for when we get the follow-up.”