Be a Savvy Shopper this Christmas!
As Christmas approaches, this year's National Consumer Week - 17th to 21st November, is focussing on consumer shopping rights.
For Warwickshire Trading Standards and Consumer Direct, Christmas time is a very busy period with people seeking advice on their consumer rights. There is considerable pressure on everyone to spend lots of money on presents and food. Often things go wrong: People buy faulty or counterfeit goods, or might be ripped off by a rogue trader and items may just not arrive on time.
Warwickshire County Council Trading Standards Service will be providing free information and advice to Warwickshire consumers at two events in the county. People will be able to talk to our advisors about their consumer rights and receive some top tips for being a happy shopper this Christmas.
The events are being held at:
* Rope Walk Shopping Centre, Nuneaton, Wednesday 19th November 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
* Royal Priors Shopping Centre, Leamington Spa, Friday 21st November 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Mark Ryder, Head of Warwickshire Trading Standards said:
“With the credit crunch affecting more people and Christmas just around the corner, it is more important than ever that consumers know their rights and know where to go if things go wrong.”
Warwickshire Trading Standards gives the following Christmas shopping advice:
* Work out your budget for presents and stick to it. This will avoid unpleasant shocks in the New Year!
* If you are using a credit or store card, make sure you know how much you are paying for credit and what the APR is.
* Avoid expensive credit offers, no matter how tempting.
* Shop around for the best deal before you buy.
* Get a gift receipt when you’re buying a gift.
* Be aware of Identity Fraud. Keep credit card slips and debit card receipts safe.
If you would like further advice or information or more shopping advice visit the Trading Standards website http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/tradingstandards or contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or http://www.consumerdirect.gov.uk