Black Friday is relatively a new concept in South Africa and has been extensively marketed on the pretext that goods are sold at lower prices. The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) through its Consumer Affairs Office cautions consumers to be vigilant as it is not the case that all goods displayed “for sale” are not in fact sold at a reduced price.
This year the office will embark on the campaign of creating awareness to consumers on the pros and cons of spending money on items not budgeted for especially those buying on credit and online.
“We will be conducting awareness campaign to enlighten consumers on the disadvantages of spending their hard earned salaries recklessly. Most consumers end up being trapped in debts as they are blindfolded into wild spending spree without looking into the actual costs associated with buying on credit and the implications of or interest, Consumer Affairs Office: DEDECT.
Letsogo pointed out that Black Friday hype creates an interest to consumers who take part in unintended purchases on goods that they do not need. Consumers are urged to act wisely and practice their rights by comparing prices before they do any transactions, check expiry dates of products, quality, labeling, etc. Those who buy on credit must be conscious of possible inclusion of unauthorized charges by businesses.
“It has come to our attention that on online purchasing has increased recently and the Department encourages consumers to verify if the site is secured and also ensure that they read and understand the return & refund policy. It will be of importance to verify where the supplier is based, the supplier may be outside the boundaries of South Africa and consumer may not enjoy protection afforded by the South African legislation”, said Letsogo.
Letsogo warned consumers to be cautious of the marketing practices such as “buy now and pay in January” which normally comes with the high interest rate to cover for the unpaid months.
The Department will be conducting awareness campaigns to interact and empower consumers on their rights and responsibilities as follows:
- 25th November 2019 Boxer Complex & Vryburg Mall
- 26th November 2019 Mahikeng Market Squire & Taxi Rank
- 27th November 2019 Shoprite next to Taxi Rank
- 28th November 2019 Midtown Mall, Rustenburg
- 29th November 2019 Tlhabane Foro Spar Complex & Waterfall Mall
Be a wise consumer by knowing your rights and responsibility.
Enquiries
Dumisa Seshabela
Cell: 079 522 7375
E-mail: dseshabela@nwpg.gov.za
