One day sales offering bargains are on the increase.  Some people may get good value for money, but buyers should use common sense to avoid any nasty surprises.  Adverts for sales can be very enticing with top brand names at knock down prices. But the advertised prices may not be all they seem.  The sale may be an auction where the price quoted is the ‘lowest reserve price’.  This means that the goods will not be sold for less than the quoted price!  In practice they will go to the highest bidder, so the ‘bargain’ may be anything but a bargain.  The small print may state that there is limited stock, or that not all goods will be available throughout the sale.

So how do you avoid that ‘I've been had’ feeling?  Many operators are expert salesmen and can whip up incredible enthusiasm in a crowded sales room. It can be difficult to keep your head.  Many buyers get caught up in the excitement and end up paying far more than the goods are worth.  It can be difficult for the buyer to judge a fair price for goods during an auction or sale.  It is very frustrating to find out after a sale that the same goods are available far cheaper in your local High Street retailer or supermarket.  When you buy goods you are entering a legally binding contract and cannot return them just because you think you've paid too much. 

Trading Standards advise anyone attending a sale to be clear about what items you want.  Do your homework and shop around beforehand.  Know how much other retailers are charging.  You will then be better prepared to judge the value of the goods offered at the sale.  Don’t get caught up in the excitement of the sale and keep a cool head.  Never buy anything unless you are sure you know exactly what you are buying, and that the price is reasonable.  If you have attended a sale to buy one of the advertised bargains, ask to buy the item for the advertised price early on.  It might save you a long wait only to find that the item is not available, or that it goes at a much higher price in an auction.

Further advice on one day sales is available from Trading Standards on 01343 554617. 

Contact: Joyce Pirie, Public Relations Co-ordinator on 01343 563046