The Cyprus Consumers Association has issued a series of recommendations to help shoppers make informed purchases during the sales period, urging consumers to plan ahead and remain vigilant against misleading offers.
In a statement, the association encouraged consumers to research prices before making purchases and to set a spending budget in advance. It advised shoppers to identify products they intend to buy and note their pre-sale prices so they can better assess whether advertised discounts represent genuine savings.
The association also recommended purchasing items that are rarely discounted at other times of the year.
Consumers were advised to examine product specifications carefully to ensure items meet their needs, while also checking availability, estimated delivery times and any supply chain issues that could result in delays.
The aim, the association said, is to avoid disappointment caused by lengthy or uncertain waiting times for deliveries.
Check reviews and compare prices
The association urged consumers to use the internet not only for shopping but also to compare prices across different retailers and read independent product reviews before making a purchase.
It reminded retailers that discounted products should clearly display both the previous selling price and the reduced price, enabling consumers to see the value of the discount being offered.
The organisation also warned shoppers to be cautious of exceptionally large discounts, such as those exceeding 90%, which may be misleading.
Consumers were advised to inspect price labels carefully, noting that previous complaints had involved products where the original price had allegedly been covered with a sticker displaying the same or an even higher price before the discount was applied.
Where discounts apply only to products with specific characteristics, such as particular sizes or colours, retailers should make those conditions clear, the association added.
Online shopping precautions
The association also cautioned against purchasing products from online retailers with questionable websites, particularly those that fail to provide full business contact details or communicate exclusively through social media platforms.
It further advised consumers to consider the privacy implications before signing up to promotional newsletters, noting that personal information may be used by businesses to create customer profiles and deliver targeted advertising.
For higher-value purchases, such as mobile phones or computers, consumers were encouraged to assess a retailer's reputation by seeking feedback from other customers, particularly regarding warranty support and after-sales service.
Consumer rights remain unchanged
The association reminded consumers to keep receipts for all purchases, as proof of purchase may be required if a product proves faulty.
It also noted that consumers purchasing goods online or away from business premises are entitled to a 14-day cooling-off period from the date they receive the product.
The organisation stressed that statutory consumer rights, including the right to repair, replacement, a price reduction or a refund in cases involving faulty goods or products that do not match their description, remain fully applicable during the sales period.
Consumers who believe retailers have breached consumer protection rules are encouraged to contact the Cyprus Consumers Association or the Consumer Helpline operated by the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry.
Source: CNA
