Retailers have criticised the planned implementation of new legislation designed to protect consumers from unfair trading, warning that many retailers may not have had time to prepare for the new rules.
The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations, due to come in on April 6, are being billed as ‘the biggest change to consumer legislation in 40 years’.
The British Shops and Stores Association (BSSA) says that, due to various delays, the Regulations have still not been approved and there are mounting concerns that many retailers will not have time to make relevant changes within there business before it becomes law.
The group said a 12-week period usually exists between publishing and implementation for those affected to make changes, and the significant lack of advance warning means it is unlikely that many businesses will be able to meet new obligations.
David Clark, the BSSA’s executive manager, said many businesses may have to notify operating policies, train staff, and review and adjust point of sale material, notices, publications and advertisements.
“This will obviously not be feasible within such a short time frame,” he said. “Businesses with catalogues and advertising campaigns would be particularly affected owing to the much longer lead times involved.”
“Businesses who do not have the benefit of an in-house legal department will be presented with a headache.
“Undoubtedly, without the benefit of guidance documents, many will have difficulty understanding the Regulations and how they need to revise their current operating practices. In fact, there is speculation that many businesses are currently not fully aware of these impending and highly-significant changes to consumer law.”
© Crimson Business Ltd. 2008
