Go easy during the stocktake sales
Posted by editor (editor) on Dec 26 2009
2009 >>

Go easy in the stocktake sales and stick to your budget is the message from the Office of Fair Trading.

Minister for Fair Trading Peter Lawlor said the simple message was not to spend more than you can afford.

"The sales can be an excellent way to pick up much-needed items for a cheaper price,” he said.

“However, you can take the joy out of a bargain if you don't spend your money wisely,” he said.

"Don't get caught up in the sales hype, this can easily lead you into debt you won't be able to pay off later.

"Just because something is on sale it doesn't mean you have to buy it. Think about what you really need and ensure you have the money to afford it."

Mr Lawlor said it was important that consumers knew their refund rights and responsibilities, particularly during the sales.

“The Office of Fair Trading received an increased number of complaints relating to refunds in 2009 compared to last year.

“We received 3338 complaints related to refunds in 2008 and have received 4228 so far this year.

“It’s important that you hang onto receipts and keep labels and tags attached to items you purchase, to ensure you can return them if they are faulty or don’t do what they should.

"Even if the goods are on special, you have the right to ask for a refund if they have a problem you could not have known about at the time of purchase," he said.

"If an item is marked as 'damaged' or 'as-is', you are accepting the product in that condition, and if you find it's faulty when you get home you may not be entitled to a refund."

Mr Lawlor said consumers were not entitled to a refund if they changed their mind, found the same item cheaper elsewhere or if they bought a gift the receiver does not want or need.

”I encourage consumers to work out a budget before they hit the shops to avoid financial stress later on.

"Be cautious about using your credit card and make sure you can afford the item and the repayments."

"Credit cards are one of the easiest ways to get into debt, with many people buying items on impulse knowing they are only obliged to make a small minimum payment each month.

"You may not see the discount if you end up paying interest on your credit card bills for purchases you haven't paid off in time," he said.

Mr Lawlor also reminded shoppers to check the sales signs carefully before handing over their cash at the register.

"Remember the sign may say 'up to 50 per cent off' but you may pick up an item that has only been reduced by 10 per cent," he said.

"Don't be afraid to ask the sales assistant questions to find out exactly how much the item costs, or you could end up spending more than you expected."

Mr Lawlor said in some instances some stores will offer a credit note as a gesture of goodwill if the consumer changed their mind or decided they no longer liked what they bought. However this is not an obligation.

For more information visit www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au.

Last changed: Jan 07 2010 at 2:25 PM