GETTING THE MOST FOR YOUR MONEY

The twenty – seven (27) laws, which currently exist to protect consumers’ rights, coupled with consumers exercising their right to choose is perhaps the most effective way for consumers to protect themselves in a free market system. The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) wishes to inform you that choosing wisely begins before, continues during and well after a purchase is made. This process may be classified under the following headings:

Before purchase

The aim of buying an item is to satisfy a need or want, which has been identified. To prevent frustration later, when you find your purchase “wanting”, the Commission strongly suggests that you carefully assess your needs and identify and discuss your expectations of the product, service and/or vendor. You should then shop around, in an effort to get the best quality and value for the money you are willing to spend.

Do your research. Ask relatives, friends and co-workers about their experience with a particular company, brand or product. Gather information from the internet, periodicals or agencies, such as the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC). In your search ensure you enquire about the vendor’s reputation, approach to customer service and redress policy. If there is no established policy, ask if the company gives refunds, allows exchanges or conducts repairs when there is a valid claim. It may also be in your best interest, to find out how many times an item might be repaired before an exchange is allowed by the vendor.

During purchase

After deciding what you want and the most likely places to get it, the next step is to make the purchase. Examine products thoroughly, read labels and ask questions. Ask about warranties and guarantees and assess whether or not they seem reasonable to you. Explore the available delivery options and discover if there are additional charges. Where products are ready-to-assemble (RTA), ask if there is an additional fee and/or benefit(s) associated with the item being assembled by the store.

If the representative of the business is rude or unwilling to answer your questions, report the matter to Management and shop where you are respected as a customer and treated accordingly.

After purchase

After-Sales Service is very important in a competitive market, especially for items such as automobiles, computers and appliances. Consumers are therefore encouraged to find out how they are likely to be treated in the event that products malfunction and to explore their options. In light of this, businesses should honour their promises within a reasonable time and provide customers with acceptable avenues for voicing their grievances and concerns.

When you have considered all of the above and are satisfied that these requirements are fulfilled, then you would more likely than not have obtained the most for your money.