Your Top 5 Consumer Challenges This Christmas (And a Little Festive Fun)

23 Dec

Author: Adam Carter - two minute read

Before we dive into this week’s podcast highlights, let me ask you an important question: What’s your favourite Christmas movie? During the intro of this week’s episode, LouBax and I got into a little chat about this. Lou swears by Elf and Love Actually when last year her choice was Die Hard, she must have been a bit angrier last year, you just can’t beat Die Hard. Yes, it’s a Christmas movie—don’t come for me!

Then we got started on Christmas songs. LouBax firmly believes The Pogues reigns supreme, I have to agree that Fairytale of New York is an untouchable classic, my nine year old loves Wham, that’s going to stay with us forever.

Once the Christmas spirit chat was out of the way, we got down to business with our guest, Jemma Cox (The Polar Express, Mariah Carey just to check all boxes) —Trading Standards Officer extraordinaire—who helped us unpack the top five consumer issues trading standards teams up and down the country encounter on a daily basis. So, grab your mulled wine and a mince pie, and let’s dive in. In reverse order they are:

5. Furniture Purchases

Furniture shopping can be fraught with issues. Jemma debunked a common myth: if you buy furniture in-store, you don’t have an automatic right to return it unless the retailer’s policy says so. However, if you’re shopping online, you’re protected by the 14-day cooling-off period, unless it’s bespoke.

Jemma’s top tip? - Double-check the dimensions—not just for where it will go in your home, but for whether it will fit through your door!

4. Online Clothing Purchases

Let’s talk about online clothes shopping, aka the festive gamble. Jemma highlighted the frustration of inconsistent sizing across retailers and reminded us to always check size charts and keep an eye out for delivery options that offer free or easy returns.

If your parcel goes missing, remember: it’s the seller’s responsibility to ensure the product reaches you, not the courier's.

3. Home Improvements and Green Energy

Rogue traders love a Christmas scam, and green energy solutions are one of their favourite hooks. From fake solar panel claims to dodgy roof treatments, these criminals prey on homeowners eager to make improvements during the quieter winter months.

Jemma urged listeners to stick to reputable schemes like TrustMark and avoid any cold callers promising big savings. Research thoroughly, and always get multiple quotes before committing to any work.

2. Car Servicing

Car servicing complaints are all too common, especially when you’re told a part needs replacing without a clear explanation.

Jemma’s advice? - Ask for evidence. Insist on part numbers and detailed information about the work, then compare prices with other garages.

And, if something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion.

1. Second hand Cars

Here’s the big one: second-hand cars remain the number one consumer issue Trading Standards deals with. Misleading descriptions, hidden faults, and dodgy dealers are all too common.

Thankfully, Jemma shared her tried-and-tested ROAR method to help you navigate the process:

Research: Check the car’s MOT history and seller reviews.
Observe: Look for warning lights, unusual noises, or red flags during the test drive.
Ask: Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and follow up in writing if needed.
Right to Reject: If a fault appears within 30 days of purchase, you can demand a full refund. Between 30 days and six months, the burden of proof is on the seller to show the car wasn’t faulty at the time of sale.

Final Thoughts

This episode is packed with tips to make your life less stressful and more informed. From knowing your rights when shopping online to avoiding scams, Jemma’s expertise reminds us all to take our time, ask questions, and always keep our receipts.

And as for our little Christmas debate? Whether you’re a Die Hard loyalist like me or a Love Actually fan like LouBax, we can all agree on this: knowledge is the best gift you can give yourself this festive season.

And just maybe…. Consumer Rights IS all around

🎄 From all of us at Consumer Friend, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Tune in to the full podcast episode to learn more and shop smarter this season. 🎄

Podcast Title: Consumer Friend Podcast – Protecting Yourself This Christmas

Episode Title: Tackling Consumer Challenges with Jemma Cox

Release Date: 23 Dec 24

Host(s):

Adam Carter

Louise Baxter MBE (LouBax)

Guest(s):

Jemma Cox – Trading Standards Officer, Chartered Trading Standards Institute Lead Officer for Civil Law, and lecturer at Cardiff University

Episode Summary:

In this festive episode of the Consumer Friend Podcast, Adam and Louise sit down with Jemma Cox to discuss the top five consumer issues facing shoppers this Christmas. From secondhand cars to online shopping pitfalls, Jemma shares actionable advice to help listeners navigate the busy holiday season with confidence.

The conversation ranges from spotting counterfeit products to dealing with rogue traders in the green energy sector. Whether you're buying gifts, furniture, or even a secondhand car, this episode is packed with insights to help you shop smarter and protect your rights.

Key Takeaways:

Furniture Purchases:

Be cautious when buying furniture, especially in-store, where returns aren’t automatically guaranteed unless the retailer’s policy allows it. For online purchases, remember the 14-day cooling-off period unless the item is bespoke.

Online Clothing Issues:

Beware of inconsistent sizing and delivery mishaps. It’s the retailer’s responsibility to ensure your package arrives safely. Check for flexible return policies before making a purchase.

Home Improvements and Green Energy Scams:

Stick to reputable providers like TrustMark, and avoid cold callers promising energy savings or quick fixes. Always research businesses thoroughly before committing to home improvement projects.

Car Servicing:

Insist on clear evidence for suggested repairs. Jemma advises requesting part numbers and service details so you can compare quotes and avoid unnecessary costs.

Secondhand Cars:

The ROAR method is essential for used car purchases:

· Research the car’s MOT history and seller reviews.

· Observe any warning signs during the test drive.

· Ask detailed questions and get answers in writing.

· Right to Reject if faults are found within the first 30 days.

Resources & Links:

· Ask the Regulator – Shared Regulatory Services

o Apple

o Spotify

· Consumer Friend Website – For detailed tips and consumer protection resources.

· Citizens Advice – Comprehensive guidance on consumer rights.

· TrustMark – Find reputable tradespeople for home improvements.

· MOT History Checker – Check the history of a secondhand car before purchase.

Timestamps:

· [00:00] – Festive intro: Adam and Louise debate Christmas movies and songs.

· [03:00] – Jemma Cox joins to discuss the top consumer issues this Christmas.

· [05:30] – Furniture purchases: What to watch out for and knowing your rights.

· [10:00] – Online clothing purchases: Sizing issues, deliveries, and returns.

· [15:30] – Green energy and home improvement scams: Staying safe with reputable providers.

· [20:00] – Car servicing tips: Avoiding unnecessary repairs and getting proof.

· [25:30] – Secondhand cars: Jemma explains the ROAR method for smart purchases.

· [35:00] – Final thoughts: Jemma’s key advice for confident holiday shopping.

This episode is packed with practical advice to keep your holiday shopping stress-free and informed. From all of us at Consumer Friend, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🎄