The American Consumer Council (ACC) reached the 100,000 member mark on October 11, 2010. The non-profit consumer education organization has members and active state affiliate organizations in 44 states as well as members in Europe and Asia.

ACC president Thomas Hinton attributed the organization's double-digit growth for the past four years to three key factors: the economic downturn which has brought about significant job loss, home foreclosures and the loss of health care benefits; growing consumer distrust with banks and credit card companies because of their predatory lending practices and lack of compassion for consumers; and, a decline in product reliability, quality and customer service among major manufacturers.

Hinton noted, "All of these issues strike at the pocketbooks of consumers who believe the economy is still in a recession despite what Washington tell us." Hinton added, "There's also a strong distrust among consumers towards big business and their attitude of dis-concern for consumers. Our members are upset with 'Big' -- big oil, big government and the big-spenders in Congress. You will see consumers extract a pound of flesh on the big spenders at the ballot box on Election Day."

ACC was established in 1987 as a non-profit, consumer education organization. Its mission is to educate consumers on the purchase of safe, reliable products and services; and, to serve as a voice for consumer advocacy on issues affecting all Americans including: product safety, corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability. ACC has more than 100,000 members in North America. ACC is also the administrator of the Green C Certification program which certifies and recognizes deserving companies and organizations for their commitment to environmental compliance and corporate social responsibility.

ACC achieve its mission through financial literacy programs, consumer advocacy and educational workshops. Also, ACC supports a network of state and regional consumer councils. Through its 44 consumer councils, ACC champions local consumer issues and recognizes deserving companies and organizations that offer outstanding products and services, and strengthen their local communities through corporate programs and volunteerism.