When we go out shopping, wherever we go to buy our needs, we have a right to expect that all items displayed are properly marked.
As consumers, we should be able to make price comparisons and informed choices. There should not be any surprises at the cash point, such as hidden extras.
As a general rule, all goods displayed for sale must have prices indicated clearly and accurately. This also applies to items displayed in shop windows.
However, the Price Indication Regulations stipulate that where more than one item of the same kind, size, type or brand of the same goods are displayed, it is considered sufficient if the price is shown on only one item.
Goods, including foodstuffs, which are sold or offered to consumers per unit weight or volume, must show both the actual price – the price for a given quantity, and the unit price.
The unit price should indicate how much it would cost for a given quantity of the product, such as a kilo of cheese or potatoes. In case of pre-packaged solid food products presented in a liquid medium, the unit price shall refer to the net drained weight of the product.
Unit pricing allows for better and more transparent comparison of prices across a range of goods in different sizes or from different manufacturers – we can compare the cost of one kilo of different brands.
The price displayed must be in euros and tax inclusive. Where specific charges apply, such as postage, package or delivery, these should also be clearly indicated.
Products that are exempt from price indication include goods supplied for the purpose of re-selling, goods sold at an auction, goods provided in the course of a service, and also works of art and antiques.
A service provider is also not legally obliged to display a price list. However, to avoid any possible misunderstandings and eventual complaints, before providing a service, traders should inform the consumer of the total cost of the service, including taxes.
It is also our responsibility to protect ourselves from unpleasant surprises by requesting a quote of the cost involved before purchasing a service.
In situations where retailers make genuine mistakes and a product is marked at a lower price than it should be, as consumers we do not have a right to buy the goods at the marked price if the trader proves his mistake.
However, when such mistakes are drawn to the seller’s attention they should be rectified immediately.
The Price Indication Regulations also apply during the sales. Reduced prices should be clearly marked. It is, in fact, considered illegal to give a false or misleading previous price.
For instance, if a seller crosses out one price and replaces it with another during the sales, the older price must be accurate.
If retailers fail to observe the Price Indication Regulations, they would be committing an offence and, if found guilty, are liable to a fine of not less than €116 and not more than €1,163.
In the case of a second or subsequent conviction, shop owners can also have their trade licence suspended for a week. Traders are bound not only to ensure that they are in full compliance with these regulations but also any person in their employment.
The Enforcement Directorate of the Office for Consumer Affairs carries out regular spot checks in retail outlets around Malta and Gozo to make sure that the Price Indication Regulations are properly adhered to.
Furthermore, consumers may report any lack of price indication or misleading prices to the Enforcement Directorate by calling Freephone 8007 4400.
customer@timesofmalta.com
odette.vella@gov.mt
Ms Vella is senior information officer, Office for Consumer Affairs, Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority.