Consumers cautioned on various sale tactics

CEBU, Philippines - Consumers are naturally attracted to sales promotions offered by retailers especially during holidays. But consumers especially those bargain hunters also have to be wary of these tempting promos, says the Department of Trade and Industry.

The DTI in Cebu tells buyers to be cautious of special offers like free items or the so called “buy 2 take 1 free”.

“Compare them with the regular priced items to be sure that you are not paying for the said free items,” it advises.

Sales promos offered by businesses have to have a permit from the appropriate government agencies such as DTI and Department of Health-Food and Drug Administration.

Sales promos usually encourage customers to buy now rather than later; these include point of sale displays, free gifts, samples, 2-for-1 offers, coupons and competitions. 

The trade agency says that consumers have to check an information in advertisements, publications or announcements that, for instance, it goes like “Per DTI (national, regional or provincial office) Permit No. 001, Series of 2015”.

‘While supply lasts’

DTI Cebu also reminds retailers against putting the phrase “while supply lasts” with a period in their price reduction promotions. The phrase simply means that a retailer has stocks of a product but will eventually run out of stock so a buyer is urged to buy right away. 

“The sponsor shall be liable throughout the duration of the promotion, whether or not the supply of the products under promotion has been depleted,” it states.

“Examine every item. Look for any hidden defect,” it further adds.

Consumers are also told to ask for an official receipt or keep the cash register receipt. This is especially helpful when they have to go back to the store to change a defective product.

DTI notes: “The condition ‘sale items are non-refundable’ would not be displayed in sale invoices, receipts and within the establishment.”

If the store manager refuses to act on a complaint, the customer is advised to go to the agency which has jurisdiction over such complaint.

“It really pays to be informed and vigilant rather than just let yourself be victimized by different sales gimmicks,” DTI tells the public. — (FREEMAN)