The ACCC completed a ‘sweep’ of local businesses and reportedly uncovered various problematic practices, particularly concerning discounting.
This follows reports from consumers about ‘was/now’ pricing practices, particularly when consumers believe that prices increased before significant sales events.
ACCC deputy chair Catriona Lowe confirmed a review will be completed to determine if businesses have artificially increased the price of goods to create the perception of a more significant sale.
“We will continue our internet sweep of advertising practices throughout late December sales as businesses doing the right thing should not lose sales to businesses that are potentially misleading consumers,” she said.
“We know that many consumers rely on sales to save money when shopping for products, especially during this time of cost of living pressure, and when people may be seeking to save up for holidays and festivities.”
She continued: “Retailers must not seek to take advantage of this by misleading consumers.”
The ACCC also drew attention to ‘fine print’ tactics and disclaimers that limit claims about sales, including member-only deals and the exclusion of specific ranges and/or products.
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