I responded to an ad in the local newspaper for a "recession-proof" buciness opportunity as a coffee distributor. I was contacted by a "Greg Ross" of "Continental Gourmet Coffee" who sent me (airborne express) a professional looking folder with brochures, info, and coffee sample.
I was later contacted by Robert "Bob" Cameron via telephone to try and get me to participate. He had an email sent to me with mor info: company press release from Jan Dunn & Bradstreet Report, BBB Certificate, list of 4 references (existing distributors), and contracts for their "gold" and "platinum" level distributorships.
I was next contacted by Jack McShea from Roosevelt Marketing & Placement, in Oregon. He stated that their company was contracted to help set up my displays in locations approved by Continental Gourmet.
I called each of the references (existing distributors) and left messages for them. I recieved return calls from 3 of them: Dave Jakovich (Poughkeepsie, NY), Harol Baer (Seattle, WA), Matt Skaggs (Phoenix, AZ). All 3 had positive experiences with the company.
I wanted to participate at the "gold" level which cost $24,900 and included 15 coffee displays with enough coffee to stock the displays. The money was due in 2 halves ($12450 each) and was payable through wire transfer only to their bank HSBC.
I was contacted many times by Bob Cameron while the money was outstanding but have been unable to speak with him since the money was sent. Bob's business card lists a phone number (800-729-4212) which is an answering service. I also obtained his office number (866-978-5299 x109) which always goes to voicemail.
I have been unable to contact or recieve call-backs from any other people whom I spoke to in the past.
I have read a recent BBB warning for this company. DO NOT SEND THEM ANY MONEY!
If anyone else has experience with this company, please report it. We can quickly form a class-action lawsuit and recover our money from this elaborate scam.
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