MAKE YOUR X-MAS LIST AND CHECK IT TWICE

The 2003 Christmas season is definitely here! Many stores, supermarkets and pharmacies have already begun to deck their halls with enticing and attractive decorations, complete with the music and the general atmosphere associated with this time of year. The radio stations, newspaper and television stations are becoming increasingly full with very catchy advertisement slogans and campaigns. Inviting consumers to look through catalogues or visit stores to see what the new stock has to offer. There are sales already being advertised that consumers “just can’t afford to miss”. But the real question could be “Can you afford these bargains?”

The Christmas season is known all over the world as the best period for retailers and shopping in general. People get into the “spirit” of giving and the expectations to provide gifts to family, co-workers and friends are running very high. There is a lot to look at and a lot being offered, and for many reasons at this time of the year, persons may not spend as much time inspecting items before making a purchase, especially if payment is deferred until January or some time in the New Year. Consumers may be tempted therefore to visit these stores and “cash in” on these enticing and catchy deals, in many cases forget the basic rules that should apply when making a purchase – any purchase.

These are:

1. Identify what your needs are at this time

2. Prepare a budget, keeping in mind what your regular (non Christmas) expenses will be in December and January.

3. Call around and compare prices.

4. Make a decision that sticks to your budget.

5. Repeat steps 1 – 4, and then make your purchase.

Consumers should read the fine print and make sure that the sales person takes the time to explain all the details and answer your questions clearly.
Over the last three years at the Commission there has been an increase in complaints to our offices in January, usually from customers disgruntled about late delivery or issues with payment arrangements that might not have happened if they had not rushed so quickly into making a decision to purchase. Another thing persons should definitely keep in mind is to watch the spending on the various Christmas parties and Christmas outfits as these also add up and can quickly lead to over spending and budget busting therefore one should also do an Entertainment Budget.
The Consumer Affairs Commission is also encouraging consumers that wherever possible they should buy Jamaican products as gift items, especially for friends and relatives overseas. Also, avoid last minute shopping, demand a receipt and do not swop your warranty for a discount.

Tell us what issues you want addressed

Send e-mail to: cacjam@infochan.com or star@gleaner.com

Write to us at: 1B Holborn Road, Kingston 10 Or call us at: 926-1650-2 or toll free 1-888-991-4470, ask for our Information Desk