The official summer sales, which in some stores reach 70%, start from today, July 15. The Chief Secretariat of Consumers in Greece warns that in order for sales to be in favor of consumers, people need to decide what they really need and to know the basic discount rules.

Did you know that it is illegal for a salesman not to take back a good with the excuse that discount products cannot be returned? Except of course, in the cases when the product is on sale because of a defect, for which the salesman is obliged to inform you.

The secretary in chief of the Consumer Protection Organization in Greece Yannis Ikonomou explained that: “Every consumer needs to know the rules and to be careful, so he can make the right choice based on his needs. Discounted prices do not mean lower quality of the good. Consumers need to research the market and decide what they need, what opportunities exist and what they want.”

Consumers can merit from the discounted prices but at the same time they need to know about the “catch,” which sales hide. This is why the Consumers Center gives the following advices:

·          Before going out shopping think of what you need and do not make up fake needs, in order not to become a victim of overconsumption.

·          Do not buy things just because they are cheap if you do not need them.

·          Do not be influenced by advertising. The products’ good image does not mean it reflects reality.

·          Before buying something, research the market – compare prices and make the right choice.

·          If you buy a faulty product, return it immediately and take something else or take back your money.

Salesman are obliged to exchange faulty products even if they are bought during the discount period. A salesman can refuse to exchange a product only if the price is lower due to a defect. The consumer must be informed about this in advance.

·          The price tag of all products should have two prices – the one before the discount and the one after the discount.

·          Buy seasonal products – do not believe that you can find a discount on a TV or a fridge. The discounts are for clothes, shoes and other similar products on this year’s fashion.

·          When purchasing products with a credit card or with a down payment, you need to be very careful.

·          Ask for a receipt with every purchase and do not forget that some of the responsibility falls on the consumer as well, because if you are stopped on the street and you do not have a receipt, the fines are high.

·          Avoid crowded places, because there are some people who do not want to spend money but to take the excess weight of your handbag.

·          If you find untrue discounts or faulty products you should call 210-3803116 or 1520 (General Consumer Secretariat), which is open from 08:00AM to 10:00PM.