Are the discounts real?

We are in the middle of the discount season and we all like to take advantage of discounts to renew our wardrobe or buy that bargain product. However, it is important to be careful with misleading advertising, as it can be present in many of these offers that are so juicy at first glance.

What is misleading advertising?

Misleading advertising is advertising that misleads or is likely to mislead consumers. The General Law for the Defence of Consumers and Users and the Law on Unfair Competition establish several provisions to protect consumers against misleading advertising.

During sales it is common to come across advertising that does not comply with current regulations:

- A fairly common practice is the manipulation of the reference price. A few days before the sales, prices are increased and then lowered, making it look like a great offer, when in fact the price is the same.

- Another strategy is not displaying the correct reference price to show the discount, which can lead to confusion about what is being saved.

- We may find that the small print in the offer makes the offer less attractive.

- Or that discounted products are then, coincidentally, not available.

- It is important to bear in mind that what is offered on sale must have been on sale before. Sales are related to the change of season, so you cannot sell inferior products as discounted.

What does the law say about misleading advertising?

The law prohibits this type of practice and, if establishments are not transparent in their advertising, they may face sanctions and even the obligation to compensate the consumers affected.

What can the customer do about misleading advertising?

A. It is very important to be well informed, comparing prices and reading the small print of offers.

B. It will be very useful, if you feel you have been misled, to have kept evidence, such as advertisements or receipts.

C. You can defend your rights as a consumer by filing a complaint with the consumer authorities in your municipality.

D. It is worth remembering that consumers have the right to withdraw from online purchases within the period stipulated by law without having to justify the reason for their decision. In physical establishments, it is better to find out about the time periods offered for returns before making the purchase.

In short, although the law requires companies to provide a minimum level of transparency, it is the consumer who must be vigilant in order to avoid falling victim to misleading advertising, and if they do, to bring it to the attention of the competent authorities.