Trade fairs offer a convenient way for consumers to explore a wide range of products under one roof and benefit from attractive deals.
However, special promotions and time-limited offers can sometimes lead to rushed decisions or uncertainty about consumer rights.
Staying informed is essential, as understanding consumer legal rights and responsibilities can help consumers shop confidently and avoid potential disputes.
Look beyond the discount
Consumers should avoid getting overly impressed by advertisements promoting seemingly unbeatable offers.
For example, a discounted home appliance at a trade fair may look like a bargain but it is still wise to compare prices before purchasing.
Taking time to shop around helps ensure consumers truly get better value for money. Consumers should also review key terms, such as delivery, guarantees and return policies, before committing to any purchase.
If something goes wrong, you’re protected
Consumers should remember that discounted prices do not affect their right to receive goods of satisfactory quality.
Products must be free from defects, match their description and be fit for purpose.
For example, if you buy a piece of furniture at a trade fair but it does not meet the promised quality or description, the seller is legally required to provide you with a remedy.
As a first step, and where appropriate, a seller must repair any faulty product for free.
If repair is not possible, or cannot be completed within a reasonable time and without causing significant inconvenience, the consumer may request a replacement.
If neither option is feasible, the consumer is entitled to a partial or full refund. These rights apply for up to two years from the date of purchase.
“In certain circumstances, such purchases are considered as off-premises contracts, entitling consumers to a 14-day withdrawal period”
Changed your mind? You may have a chance to cancel
If consumers make a purchase at a trade fair but subsequently change their mind, they may have the right to cancel the transaction.
In certain circumstances, such purchases are considered as off-premises contracts under the Consumer Rights Regulations, entitling consumers to a 14-day withdrawal period during which they can cancel the contract and obtain a refund.
However, this right does not always apply automatically.
Whether a sale is considered off-premises depends on the trader’s usual business practice. If the trader regularly takes part in the trade fair, the sale may be treated as taking place on their normal business premises, meaning the right of withdrawal would not apply.
In contrast, if the trader attends only occasionally or for the first time, the purchase is more likely to be considered off-premises, giving consumers the right to cancel.
Check before you leave the stand
When buying goods to take home immediately, consumers should inspect them carefully for visible defects before leaving the stand.
For example, check decorative items, small appliances or jewellery for any visible damages. This is because consumer law generally does not cover defects that were clearly visible at the time of purchase, especially if the damage might have occurred after consumers took the item home.
By taking a few moments to examine the product properly, consumers can spot any problems early and request a replacement straight away, helping them avoid disputes later on.
Before you sign, understand the terms
When purchasing services at a trade fair, consumers should carefully review and understand the terms and conditions before signing any agreement.
For example, if consumers are considering buying a discounted solar panel system, they should first confirm whether accepting the offer means entering into a legally binding contract. If so, they should check the contract’s duration, termination conditions and any fees or penalties for cancellation.
Another key responsibility for consumers is to obtain and keep the proof of purchase. This may take the form of a fiscal receipt or any other document confirming the transaction, such as an invoice or order confirmation.
Such proof should clearly include details like the seller’s identity, the date of purchase and a description of the product or service bought.
If a problem arises, consumers should first contact the trader to try to reach an amicable solution. If they are unsure about their rights or the remedies available to them, they can seek guidance from the Office for Consumer Affairs at the MCCAA. Consumers may get in touch through the ‘Contact Us’ form on the MCCAA website or by calling 8007 4400.
In conclusion, while trade fairs can offer attractive deals and a convenient shopping experience, it is essential for consumers to remain informed and cautious. Being aware of one’s consumer rights, carefully checking products and contracts and keeping proof of purchase can go a long way in preventing problems.
Odette Vella is director information, education and research, Office for Consumer Affairs, MCCAA
