Black Friday: Hit the Stores with a Plan
Monday, November 24th, 2014 -- 10:27 AM
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) reminds you that planning ahead for Black Friday can help minimize any confusion about event-specific terms and limitations that you may face in the stores.Wisconsin consumers are gearing up for Black Friday ? the annual sales event that has morphed from a one-day blowout to a discount parade stretching from Thanksgiving afternoon through the weekend.
Sandy Chalmers, Division Administrator for Trade and Consumer Protection say that before you hit the road to start your shopping, make sure that you carefully review the ads and understand each store's Black Friday policies.
Wisconsin law requires stores to charge their lowest advertised price for a product and to refund any overcharge. With so many items discounted on Black Friday, it is important for consumers to keep an eye on the register as they check out. Special pricing may only apply to specific products, so be sure that you have the correct item and model name or number before you hit the checkout lane. Review your receipts to make certain that you were charged the advertised price.
Other simple tips to remember when you are out shopping this holiday season include:
Keep the store ad in hand while you shop and take notes of any special prices or sale
signage.
Make sure you understand return/refund/exchange policies before you buy. Retailers
may have stricter policies in place for Black Friday purchases. Keep your receipts.
To help a gift recipient make a return if there is a problem with the item, remember to
pick up a gift receipt and include it in the package.
Be aware that clearance and "open items" may have different return policies or not be
returnable at all.
As the items run through the register, keep an eye on the display and speak up if you
believe that an item did not register at its advertised price.
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.