Warning Issued To “Last Minute” Christmas Shoppers About Buying Rushed Gifts

Every year we mean to be more organised with our Christmas shopping list but most of us somehow end up leaving it until the last minute and suffer a small breakdown because we’re running out of time, yet again.

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However, Irish shoppers are being told not to rush into buying gifts this festive season and normal last minute shoppers have been warned to think before they buy. 

Experts have said that these festive shoppers need to know their rights, especially when buying presents online. 

The European Consumer Centre (ECC) Ireland have urged shoppers to remember that returns policies differ from when you’re shopping online to buying in store.

If bought online, customers are entitled to a 14-day cooling off period where they have the right to cancel an order – for any reason.

The same does not apply for in store rules, however. 

The EEC explains that: “When the Christmas shopping rush is in full swing it can be easy to forget to check returns policies.

“Consumers need to remember that for online purchases they have the right to cancel an order, for any reason, within a cooling off period of 14 calendar days (there are exceptions).

“However, for purchases made on the high street consumers are not automatically entitled to a refund or exchange simply because they changed their minds; the returns policy is up to the trader, as long as it doesn’t adversely affect statutory consumer rights (e.g. your rights when the good is faulty).

“But some shops may offer an exchange or refund as a gesture of goodwill and even have extended Christmas returns policies.

“So, it’s important to take the time to ask and remember to keep your receipts or order confirmation and ask for a gift receipt when buying for someone else.”

Last minute shoppers, we know your struggle but these are rules worth following this Christmas.