Trading Standards officers in North Somerset are warning
shoppers to be savvy and avoid losing out this
Christmas.
Tight budgets can force shoppers to resort to buying cheap goods
to save money.
But this can often lead to disappointment on Christmas morning
with poor quality and sometimes dangerous presents.
Trading Standards manager Derek Wilkins said: "Cheap goods
bought from a market may seem to be the answer to your festive
finances, but many goods are poor quality and often unsafe.
"Counterfeit goods are largely peddled through market stalls and
less reputable stores, which open up for just a few weeks to
relieve you of your hard-earned cash. If you have a problem, there
is no way to trace the trader in the New Year.
"Not only will the children be disappointed with fake trainers,
computer games and a DVD which has a poor sound quality, the funds
are also likely to line the pockets of career criminals."
Top tips for Christmas shopping are:
• Take care in cyberspace – online sellers can be based
anywhere in the world, which can mean the goods, especially toys,
are not tested to the strict standards of the UK. Cosmetics,
perfumes and alcohol can be laced with cheap, unsafe
chemicals.
• If goods appear to be a bargain check they are the genuine
article and that they will be delivered in time for
Christmas.
• For goods over £100 use a credit card as this gives you
extra protection. But, make sure the loan and any interest can be
paid when the bill arrives.
• Visit
www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/savvy
for more top tips and to share your shopping experiences.
The warning comes as part of National Consumer Week, which runs
from 17 November and aims to highlight shoppers’ rights.
For more information about Christmas shopping rights call
Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.