Sale! Saving or Scam?

You might think looking at a price tag would be simple enough, but it’s not always as clear as it seems. When you see a special offer or a sales reduction, you have the right to certain information to help you make a informed decision about whether it’s good value. The main law covering sales prices is the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations, which says any price promoted as a ‘sale’ or ‘special offer’ must also list the original price. Usually this should be the price charged immediately before the sale started. The seller must have charged this price for a ‘meaningful’ period, usually at least as long as the sale lasts. This means shops can’t simply put a dress on sale for £200 for one day, then sell it at £50 and bill it as being 75% off. One thing to watch out for is when the seller compares the sales price with a ‘recommended retail price’ (RRP). This is usually allowed as long as it’s clear this is the case, even when the seller concerned has never charged that price themselves.

VAT INCLUDED

When sellers offer goods to consumers, they must always list prices including any VAT that applies. Sellers can only list prices excluding VAT when marketing directly to businesses and even then they must make it very clear they have done so. Listed prices must always include any charge that is compulsory rather than an optional extra: for example, car dealers can’t add on a ‘hidden’ fee for number plates.

HAGGLING

With all prices, there’s no legal reason you can’t offer a lower price. You have the same rights to haggle in Harrods as you do at a car-boot sale, though not always with the same likelihood of succeeding! If you negotiate a discount, you still have the same consumer rights to return a faulty product or one that’s not as advertised. The seller might exclude the deal from their normal returns policies if you change your mind, though they’ll need to agree this with you before you buy.

DISTANCE SELLING

Whatever price you pay, whether ‘on sale’ or not, your consumer rights are unaffected. You still have a legal right to a refund if goods are faulty, not as described or not fit for their stated purpose. You can also ask for a repair or replacement, but that’s entirely your choice. The only exception is if the price reduction was because of a flaw the seller told you about, such as a scuff mark or missing instructions. Where sales can come into play is the retailer’s own policies that go beyond your legal rights. Many sellers will offer you store credit or a refund when the goods are fine and you’ve simply changed your mind. Sellers can exclude sale goods from this policy, though they should make this clear in advance.