Additionally, these regulations state that two prices should be indicated on products sold by unit weight or volume. This also applies to pre-packed goods, including foodstuffs sold in pre-established or variable quantities.
In the case of pre-packaged solid products preserved in a liquid medium, the price per unit should refer to the weight of the solid food without the liquid in which it is contained. These products should have both the actual price and the unit price.
For example, a 500g pack of spaghetti should be displayed with a single price and a unit price, that of €1 per pack (500g) and €2 per kilo. The unit price may be indicated in a smaller font than the actual price, but it must still be clearly legible.
As from March 1, in terms of regulation 6 (3) of the Consumer Affairs (Price Indication) Regulations, the director general (Consumer Affairs) will exempt retail outlets having an area of less than 200 square metres and goods with a content of less than 50 grams or 50 millilitres from displaying the unit price.
The reason behind unit price indication is for consumers to be able to compare prices on site. Unit price indication applies only when comparisons can be made.
Other obligations of traders include exhibiting in their place of business a sample of every kind, size and type of brand stocked. These must all have a price on them.
However, if there is more than one item of the same kind, size, type or brand, it is legally sufficient to show the price on just one of these items, or in the vicinity – such as on a label on the edge of a shelf where the product is displayed.
This also applies to when products are sold at reduced prices, such as during sales. It would be considered misleading if the price indicated is not the same as that charged. The Price Indication Regulations also provide that prices are displayed in euros and include VAT and any other taxes or charges.
Products exempt from price indication include goods supplied for the purpose of reselling; goods sold at an auction; goods provided in the course of a service; and 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, to avoid any possible misunderstandings and eventual complaints, before providing a service, traders should inform clients of the total cost of the service, including taxes.
It is also our responsibility to protect ourselves from unpleasant surprises by requesting a quote of the cost involved before purchasing a service.
When prices are not displayed according to the Price Indication Regulations, consumers may contact the Enforcement Directorate at the Office for Consumer Affairs of the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority.
odette.vella@mccaa.org.mt
Ms Vella is senior information officer, Office for Consumer Affairs, Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority.