The American holiday Thanksgiving has come to be followed by Black Friday, when merchants traditionally drop their prices to kick off the holiday shopping season. Numerous traders in Poland have followed suit, particularly at electronics and clothing shops. With Black Friday (November 25th) fast approaching, UOKiK and European Consumer Centre in Poland would take this opportunity to remind consumers they have the same rights when purchasing items on sale as they normally have.
Regulations are in place throughout the European Union, guaranteeing the right to:
- true information about the extent of price reductions. Running promotions by first raising prices and then lowering them back to merely normal levels is against the law on unfair commercial practices. Ask and check (online, for example), what discount the trader offers and assess whether the promotion is actually saving you money.
- purchase goods at a better price. Consumers who encounter higher prices at the cash register than what’s advertised on the price tag or the shelf have the right to the lower price.
- return online purchases without giving a reason within 14 days. It is enough to provide the trader with a declaration of contract withdrawal. Consumers should receive in return the price of goods and shipping costs. However, returning purchases made in brick-and-mortar stores for a full refund does depend on the merchant’s goodwill.
- complaints of faulty goods run on promotion. If the product is defective, a complaint may be filed with the merchant for up to 2 years after purchase. Repair or replacement of goods or a price reduction may all be requested. You can also withdraw from the contract if the defect is significant.
- consumers shopping abroad are reminded to ensure the store will ship to their country and check delivery costs. Traders may refuse to ship only in justified cases.
- Consumers can take advantage of free assistance by calling 801 440 220 or writing to porady@dlakonsumentow.pl. Both services are provided in Polish. Support for consumers based in Poland is also available from the Consumer Ombudsman and the Trade Inspectorate. For purchases made from traders from other EU countries, consumers may turn to the European Consumer Centre, which is a part of the ECC-Net.
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