Shoppers reminded of their consumer rights ahead of Boxing Day and January sales

Staffordshire Trading Standards are urging consumers to know their rights and how to avoid falling victim to scams or unfair practices before hitting the new year sales.

The Boxing Day and January sales are a popular time for consumers to look for bargains and deals, but they also pose some risks and challenges. People can encounter misleading or aggressive selling, faulty or counterfeit goods, or difficulties with returns or refunds.

Officers are now offering shoppers their tips for safe and confident shopping:

• Know your rights.  The Consumer Rights Act 2015 and the Consumer Contracts Regulations protect your rights when you buy goods or services, whether online or in-store. You have the right to expect goods to be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. You also have the right to cancel your order within 14 days if you buy online, and to get a refund, repair, or replacement for faulty goods within 30 days. 

• Before making a purchase, verify the seller's identity and contact information.  If you shop online, look for the seller's name, address, phone number and email address. If you use a platform like Amazon or eBay, check the feedback and reviews of the third-party sellers.  If you buy from a seller outside the UK, keep in mind that your rights may vary and you may have to pay additional fees or taxes.

• Keep your receipts safe:  After you buy something, keep your receipts and confirmation emails as proof of purchase.  You may need them if you want to return something or make a complaint.

• Beware of unrealistic offers.  If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.  Retailers usually don't lower the prices of products that are in high demand, so be doubtful of huge discounts on popular items.  Scammers who will never deliver the product you are buying can make any kind of enticing offers; genuine retailers have to work within reasonable margins.

• Read the terms and conditions.  Before you agree to buy anything online, read the terms and conditions carefully and make sure you understand them.  Look for any hidden charges, exclusions, or limitations.  Avoid websites that omit reference to cancellation rights or use restrictive or unfair terms.  An example of an unfair term is one excluding the seller's liability for faulty or defective goods.

• Pay attention to the delivery times, costs and methods, ensure your delivery address details are correct and plan, to ensure you will be able to take delivery of items that cannot be posted through your door.  Check the returns policy and find out how to cancel your order if you change your mind.  If you have any questions or doubts, ask the seller before you buy.

Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member responsible for Trading Standards at Staffordshire County Council, said:

“Boxing Day and the January Sales are still a busy time for retailers, when lots of goods are heavily discounted.

“We’re simply reminding people of their consumer rights and to be aware of potential pitfalls, whether shopping in a physical shop or online.  It’s particularly important when shopping online to be careful, as criminals with bogus websites may try and scam people.  People should also be particularly wary of goods being offered for sale on social networks, quite often these are counterfeit goods, which are potentially dangerous and of poor quality.”

Anyone encountering an issue with a purchase, should contact the retailer in the first instance. For any further advice visit the Citizens Advice website or contact the consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.