Please offer some advice regarding Christmas shopping, I like shopping local but I have seen some items online which are slightly cheaper. What should I be aware of when shopping local or online?
Your consumer rights remain the same at Christmas as at any other time of the year. Under the Sale of Goods Act you are entitled to a repair, replacement or refund if an item is faulty, not fit for its purpose or not as described.
Online shopping may prove more expensive than initially thought. If you buy a product online you are entitled, in most cases, to return an unwanted item within seven days of receipt for a no-quibble refund. However, postage and packing charges are not usually refundable. To return an item may be prohibitively expensive depending on the nature and weight of the product. If the item purchased online is shipped from outside of the European Union additional costs such as customs duty, excise duty and VAT may also be payable.
Shopping locally of course supports local businesses and local jobs and offers a more personal service. It may also be simpler to resolve a dispute with a local retailer if an item purchased is unsatisfactory. Please keep receipts as proof of purchase. It is important to act quickly, so always check that products are working as soon as you get them home.
When buying gifts ask for a gift receipt. It will not state the price of the item but will provide the recipient of the gift with proof of purchase if a fault arises.
If buying a gift voucher check for an expiry date and ensure that the person receiving it will be able to use it within the required time. Keep the gift voucher safely as shops are not obliged to replace lost vouchers.
If buying a gift voucher check for an expiry date and ensure that the person receiving it will be able to use it within the required time. Keep the gift voucher safely as shops are not obliged to replace lost vouchers.