Shoppers urged to report cheating vendors

PHUKET: People who believe they have been ripped off by shops overcharging – and blaming the hike in diesel prices – are being urged to report the shopkeepers to the Phuket Internal Trade Office (PITO), on Tel: 1569.

The office has also issued a checklist to help customers “Buy clever and save money” after the price of diesel soared by 24%, taking with it prices for many basic items.

First, it said, consumers should not believe all they read in advertisements or on packaging. They should buy items they need and that suit their purpose, rather than be swayed by fancy words or pictures on packaging.

Second, they should compare the prices different vendors are charging. Does the product or service offer value for money? Could something cheaper do the same job for less money?

They should, however, ensure that items they buy meet quality standards, such as those set by the Food and Drug Agency.

Third, they should be aware that the price on display is not necessarily the price they will be charged. They should check, for example, that a vendor is not advertising a product for sale at one price, but actually selling it at another.

Buyers would also do well, when buying goods sold by weight or length, to check for themselves the size or weight, using a ruler or scales.

Finally, the PITO advises buyers to examine receipts carefully before handing over any cash, to check that they are not being charged for any “unexpected” items.