How much does it cost?

How many times have we entered a shop looking for a particular product and realise that it has no price on it? We are left with no other option but to look for a salesperson and ask how much it costs. This is not right.

Legally, consumers have the right to know what the price of a product is without asking. Adequate price indication does not only provide consumers with a mandatory piece of information but also offers a chance to select the most appropriate product according to taste and budget.

The basic general rule of the Price Indication Regulations is that if a product is for sale, then its price must be indicated. Moreover, each and every price must be displayed unambiguously, easily identifiable and clearly legible. This obligation extends to products displayed in shop windows.

Traders are also obliged to exhibit conspicuously a sample of every kind, size, type or brand of goods stocked, and these must all have a price tag. However, if there is more than one item of the same kind, size, type or brand, it is sufficient to show the price on just one.

The price shown must include VAT and any other additional costs, such as taxes, delivery or other charges. The price quoted has to be the price the consumer must pay, without any 'hidden' extras. It is misleading if the price indicated is incorrect.

Food products sold to consumers per unit weight or volume must be clearly indicated with two prices - one showing the actual price of the product for a given quantity of the good, and the other being the unit price, which means the final price for one kilogramme, one litre, one metre, one square metre or one cubic metre of the goods.

In the case of pre-packaged solid food products presented in a liquid medium, the price per unit refers to the weight of the solid food without the liquid in which it is contained. The only products that do not fall under these regulations include goods supplied for the purpose of re-selling, products for auction, products provided in the course of a service, or products such as works of art and antiques. Even in case of services, there is no legal obligation on the part of the service provider to display a price list.

However, it would be beneficial to the consumer to be informed of the price being charged before the service is performed. Consumers should protect themselves from unpleasant surprises by requesting a quote of the costs involved before purchasing a service.

The Enforcement Directorate within the Consumer and Competition Division ensures that these regulations are adhered to by carrying out regular spot checks all over Malta and Gozo. During these visits, market surveillance officers check whether there are any irregularities. If there are, they advise proprietors about their obligations.

Moreover, consumers are encouraged to report any lack of price indication or misleading prices to the Enforcement Directorate by calling Freephone 8007 4400 so that the necessary action is taken.

Non-adherence to these regulations amounts to an offence and, if found guilty, shop owners are liable to pay a fine of not less than €116.28 and not more than €1,162.79. In the case of a second or subsequent conviction, shop owners can also have their trade licence suspended for a week. Traders are to ensure that both they and any person they employ fully comply with these regulations.

Ms Vella is senior information officer, Consumer and Competition Division.

customer@timesofmalta.com, odette.vella@gov.mt