Attorney General Martha Coakley Encourages Consumers to Redeem Ski Market Gift Cards by January 24

BOSTON - Ski Market Ltd., (Ski Market) will honor 50 percent of the face value of any unused gift cards under an agreement negotiated by Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley's Office, and the Offices of Attorney Generals for Connecticut and Rhode Island. The company initially refused to redeem any gift cards after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on December 29, 2009. Under the agreement, which must still be approved by the bankruptcy court, consumers holding Ski Market gift cards can use them for up to 50 percent of the card's face value at any Ski Market store, for the period from Saturday, January 16, 2010, through Sunday, January 24, 2010. The Attorney General's Office cautions consumers that they must use the gift cards during a single visit and that because the store has filed for bankruptcy, merchandise cannot be returned.

Ski Market's Massachusetts stores are located in Boston, Wellesley, Woburn, Framingham, and Pembroke.

The Attorney General's Office advises consumers that used a credit card to purchase gift cards to contact their credit card company to inquire whether any unredeemed portion may be credited to the credit card. If it cannot, consumers may file a Proof of Claim in the bankruptcy court for the unredeemed sum. The validity of a claim and the amount of any dividend will be determined by the Bankruptcy Court.

Consumers who have questions about this agreement or who need assistance with the Proof of Claim Process should contact the Attorney General's Consumer Hotline at 617-727-8400.

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