ACME has expanded a voluntary recall covering several of its most popular “rapid problem-solving” products after receiving new reports of malfunctions, premature deployment and what the company describes as “unexpected gravity events.”
The recall lands at an awkward moment for one of animation’s oldest suppliers. The company traces its identity to the Marvin Acme era, when ACME supplied props across the cartoon industry, and it is already facing renewed scrutiny over product safety following Wile E. Coyote’s lawsuit. Former chief executive Foghorn Leghorn’s tenure has also become part of that case’s public record.
The recall now includes selected Rocket Skates Pro units, Magnetic Anvil Suspension Kits and certain lots of Portable Hole Concentrate. Customers are being told to stop using the products immediately and contact ACME for replacement parts, store credit or, where applicable, complimentary medical flattening services.
“Customer safety remains our highest priority,” ACME said in a statement. “Our products are tested under controlled conditions by trained professionals, licensed stunt performers and employees who signed the appropriate waivers.”
Several anvil suspension kits may release without warning when exposed to accordion music, birdseed or sarcasm.
The company says the affected rocket skates can accelerate beyond their advertised top speed. Several anvil suspension kits may release without warning when exposed to accordion music, birdseed or sarcasm. Portable Hole Concentrate from one production run has been reported to open on vertical surfaces and then relocate itself to the floor.
No permanent fatalities have been linked to the recalled products. Property damage is another matter.
The recall comes as ACME faces renewed scrutiny over product reliability and a high-profile legal challenge from Wile E. Coyote, whose long history with the company has made him both its most recognizable customer and, arguably, its most persistent quality-control report.
ACME says the current recall is unrelated to that litigation.
Retailers have been instructed to remove affected inventory. Customers who purchased products by mail are being asked not to return them through ordinary postal channels if the package contains explosives, compressed springs, black holes or anything labeled “instant.”
“We appreciate our customers’ patience,” the company said.
A replacement catalog is already in the mail.
