The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Consumers are reminded that in Manitoba all sales are final, unless a company's return and refund policy states otherwise. To help avoid disappointments and conflict, the Consumers' Bureau offers shoppers the following advice: * Ask about a store's return policy before you make your purchase. * Note that some merchants may impose a time limit on returns or exchanges or charge a restocking fee. * Be aware that retailers have the right to offer a store credit instead of a cash refund. * Note that some stores may require a sales receipt and the original product packaging as proof of purchase. Under Manitoba's Consumer Protection Act, consumers have rights if purchased items do not work as expected. Although the item may include instructions to return goods under warranty to the manufacturer for repair or replacement, the seller is responsible for the claims of a warranty provided on consumer goods. Consumers should be aware that: * Merchants are obliged to repair or replace goods or refund money if the item purchased does not work, falls apart too quickly or does not live up to the seller's claims. * The store may require proof of purchase if consumers have an item that requires a repair under a warranty. Manitoba consumers who shop online should also exercise caution. The bureau suggests shoppers use a site is that is familiar to them and not give credit card information to an unsecured site. For additional information, contact the Consumers' Bureau toll-free at 1-800-782-0067 or visit the website at http://www.gov.mb.ca/finance/cca/consumb. Additional consumer tips may be found at http://www.consumerinformation.ca.11/24/2004
