Black Friday: Today is the day of offers-Consumer tips

The goal is to buy those products that are not offered at a discount the rest of the year

B2A4862C 28F4 4BBC 94C2 2150A312C629 Black Friday, Cyprus

The big day of consumers has arrived. Businesses like almost the rest of the world in Cyprus will proceed with discounts one month before the end of the year.

The institution of Black Friday started in the 60's in the USA and is essentially the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. Black Friday takes place on the last Friday of November.

The goal is to buy those products that are not offered at a discount the rest of the year. There will be other opportunities for other products.

Tips from the Cyprus Consumers Association

* No hurried purchases. Buy what you really need. Products you really do not need, do not buy.

* Do not buy a product simply because it is on sale. Study the characteristics of the product you are interested in, in order to make sure that it meets your needs and requirements. Look for reviews on the product. Evaluate the final price, not the discount.

* Take advantage of the internet. Use the internet, not only to make purchases, but also to find alternative products, reviews for the product you are interested in, as well as the selling price of the product from other suppliers. Beware of products with very large discounts that do not have all the necessary information, such as, exact details of the seller's address or a full description of the product features.

* Price should not be the only criterion. Especially if you intend to buy a value product (eg mobile phone, computer), it is important to evaluate the reliability and quality of service of the specific seller. Ask other consumers about their experiences, such as the seller's warranty response and after-sales service.

* Define your budget in advance. It is obvious that on Black Friday there will be several offers and it will be easy to get carried away. Determine in advance what you need and the maximum amount you want to spend, taking into account your financial capabilities. Maybe your goal is a cell phone and in the end you end up with a TV that you do not need.

* Check the store's return policy before making a purchase. Remember that according to European law, there is no legal obligation for purchases from a store and it is up to the policy of each store to accept returns or changes. This does not apply to online purchases, where consumers have the right to withdraw up to 14 days after receiving the product.

* Find out if the store you are interested in applies the Consumer Code of Conduct.

* Find out if the store you are interested in participates in the Alternative Consumer Dispute Resolution mechanism or other similar mechanism such as the consumer dispute resolution mechanism offered by the Cyprus Consumer Association ".