CAPTION: Consumer Council of Fiji CEO Premila Kumar. Photo: SHALENDRA PRASAD.
With Fiji Showcase 2013 starting this Friday 24th May at the Vodafone Arena, consumers are advised to shop carefully.
This is the time when many consumers flock in to take advantage of the specials and bargains offered by many traders on items being showcased.
However the Consumer Council is advising all consumers to exercise caution when shopping at the showcase. A responsible consumer will not indulge in impulse buying. Consumer must not rush into buying products which they don’t need. Sometimes we end up buying goods because it is cheap but the product is never used. In such cases money is wasted.
Consumers should take time to determine if the product is fit for purpose. Hence the Council advises consumers to check expiry dates on food products, electronic goods must be tested before purchase and clothing and footwear tried on, to ensure it is the correct size.
Consumers are also advised to demand for receipts no matter how busy the place is. Receipt is the evidence of your purchase in case you need to return or exchange the product.
The Council has also noted that consumers do not ask the right questions to determine the terms and conditions associated with a product and its return policy. Consumers must find out if the product they wish to purchase is covered under warranty.
While the Fiji Showcase 2013 may be a time for families to enjoy the outing, the Council reminds consumers to exercise responsibility at all times.
Premila Kumar
Chief Executive Officer