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Consumer Reports / Consumer Reports' Survey: Nine Of 10 Americans Who Haggled Saved Money

« Last post by Re-Branding Nigeria Clubs on July 10, 2013, 06:03:01 am »

10 Jul 2013 11:00 Africa/Lagos

Consumer Reports' Survey: Nine Of 10 Americans Who Haggled Saved Money

But, more than one-third of Americans refused to bargain for better deals on products and services; Plus, six savvy haggling tips

YONKERS, N.Y., July 10, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Consumers who don't haggle are leaving money on the table. A new nationally representative survey of 2,000 Americans by Consumer Reports found that just 48 percent of shoppers tried bargaining for a better deal on everyday goods and services during the past three years, down from 61 percent in 2007. And most of those who bothered to negotiate received a discount at least once during that period.

The full report on haggling is available in the August 2013 issue of Consumer Reports and online at www.ConsumerReports.org.

"Don't expect your doctor, bank, or local appliance store to cut you a break simply because you have a nice face and smile. It takes moxie and self-confidence," said Tod Marks, senior projects editor at Consumer Reports. "Having the guts to ask for a discount can result in hundreds of dollars in savings."

When it comes to haggling, nothing is off limits. But those who don't take the risk, lose. In Consumer Reports' survey, 35 percent of respondents said they won't bargain, period. Men are more likely to haggle than women – 20 percent of women said that it makes them uncomfortable. But both genders were equally successful when they tried. Younger consumers, those 18 to 29, tend to enjoy the practice more than those over 60, who were particularly turned off by it.

Shoppers achieved the highest success haggling over the price of collectibles or antiques, furniture, and appliances according to Consumer Reports' survey. Schmoozing with a salesperson was the favorite tactic for haggling over collectibles and antiques, where those who negotiated saved $100 on average. Those who haggled over furniture and questioned a health-related charge saved an average of $300; those who bargained on washers, dryers, refrigerators, and the like, saved $200, on average.

Consumer Reports also found that those who were successful at challenging the cost of a cell-phone plan averaged savings of $80.

Six Haggling Do's
Savvy negotiators know that politeness, friendliness, and a smile are harder to resist than tough talk. Consumer Reports has compiled the following tips to get to yes:

Give sellers a reason to negotiate. Loyal customers should remind their merchant or service provider of their repeated business. Offering discounts on products or services is a small price to pay to keep customers coming back.

Ask open-ended questions. Retailers are more likely to turn down a customer who asks questions that can be answered with a simple yes or no. Instead of asking for a specific dollar-amount or percentage off an item, ask what they are willing to offer as a discount.

Decide on a fair price. Research the cost of any product before buying. Print out or take screen shots of website pages or written quotes from competitors. Fifty-seven percent of survey respondents told the salesperson they'd check competitors' prices. Call the store to confirm that it will match a lower price. Ask about a refund of the difference if there's a price-drop within a reasonable period of time. If a discount on the item is out of the question, ask for free shipping, delivery, or installation.

Seek a discount for cash. Offering to pay with paper instead of plastic eliminates transaction fees sellers are required to pay to credit-card companies.

Find flaws. Retailers are likely to offer discounts on products with cosmetic blemishes or slight defects such as clothing with snags, smudges or stains, and appliances or electronics with dings or scratches. It's generally easier to negotiate such deals with independent stores than with chains and for private-label products than for big brands because sellers can't return flawed products to their makers for credit.

Be willing to walk away. It's expensive for stores to attract new customers, so they're often willing to work hard to retain their existing ones. But consumers who don't think they're getting a good deal should go elsewhere and try to negotiate a better bargain.

Consumer Reports is the world's largest independent product-testing organization. Using its more than 50 labs, auto test center, and survey research center, the nonprofit rates thousands of products and services annually. Founded in 1936, Consumer Reports has over 8 million subscribers to its magazine, website and other publications. Its advocacy division, Consumers Union, works for health reform, food and product safety, financial reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

JULY 2013
The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports®, ConsumerReports.org ® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open to it to prevent commercial use of its materials, its name, or the name of Consumer Reports®.

SOURCE Consumer Reports
CONTACT: Melissa Valentino 914.378.2432, Consumer Reports, mvalentino@consumer.org

Web Site: www.ConsumerReports.org

Online Stores / Online Stores: Getting It Right In Nigeria

« Last post by WebMasterPRO on July 09, 2013, 08:17:23 pm »

Kudos to the brain(s) behind this forum. Its long overdue in Nigeria.

More and more businesses are moving online, due to the popularity and/or success of brands like Jumia, Konga and others who spend millions on adverts and hype and have managed to woo the growing population of Nigerians who browse the Internet daily on their latest smartphones.

Compared to several years ago before the advent of GSM in Nigeria, when Internet access was a mirage and very slow when available, there is now no excuse for your business not to have an online presence.

I've worked with a few companies who wanted to convert their brick and mortar stores to estores, and the results have been somewhat mixed.

While the PROS include lower cost of operation and wider access to a large customer base, the major CON seems to be conversion: getting people to trust your brand/store and buy from you.

I have observed that majority of customers will prefer to pay on delivery, but this is oftentimes not very convenient for mom-and-pop stores who cannot ship without upfront payment.

As such, majority of those who buy online are focusing on the big names who have money to throw around on adverts and logistics, and sidelining the many small businesses who have decided to tap into this new niche.

Its a double edged sword of sorts. Personally, I believe that the more online stores we have, the greater choices consumers will have as to where to get their goods.

However, a situation where the big names are cornering the market before the new entrants even have a chance to take a foothold is very worrying.

A rating and reviews system will go a long way in helping these new stores win the confidence of their prospective customers, who will then not mind paying upfront to buy from them.

I believe with time, this forum can offer such feedback/ratings for all the online stores we have n Nigeria.

Once again, thanks to the initiators for this wonderful forum.

Consumer Reports / Financial Troubles Jump And Sentiment Stumbles For Upper-Income Households

« Last post by Re-Branding Nigeria Clubs on July 09, 2013, 12:34:34 pm »

9 Jul 2013 11:00 Africa/Lagos

Consumer Reports Index: Financial Troubles Jump And Sentiment Stumbles For Upper-Income Households

Retail activity remains at weakest point since April 2009

YONKERS, N.Y., July 9, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Consumer Reports Index , an overall measure of Americans' personal financial health, showed that more upper income Americans reported they are facing significantly more financial troubles than last month. The Consumer Reports Index's trouble tracker measure climbed to 39.2 from 34.0 a month earlier—an increase that was entirely fueled by an epic 23.3-point jump among those households earning $100,000 or more.

The Consumer Reports Index's trouble tracker measure focuses on both the proportion of consumers that have faced difficulties as well as the number of negative events they have encountered. The negative events include: the inability to pay medical bills or afford medication; missed mortgage payment; home foreclosure; interest-rate increase, penalty fees, reduced lines of credit or other changes in credit-card terms; job loss; reduced health-care coverage; and, the denial of personal loans.

The Consumer Reports Index's overall consumer sentiment measure remained in positive territory and unchanged from the previous month at 52.0. But those same consumers in households earning $100,000 or more reported a dip in sentiment of 2.5 points, while lower- and middle-income segments were virtually unchanged.

"It's possible the drop in the S&P 500 and NASDAQ indexes, as well as the prospect of rising interest rates may have chilled the outlook for affluent consumers," said Ed Farrell, director of consumer insight at the Consumer Reports National Research Center.

The Consumer Reports Indexes' past 30-day retail measure showed spending activity slackened to 8.6 from 9.2 a month earlier, and was down from one year ago (9.9). The dip shows consumers are still not comfortable spending. Planned spending for the next 30 days, reflecting potential July activity, remains weak at 6.2, virtually unchanged from last month at 6.0. The planned-spending activity numbers posted for the past two months are the weakest since Consumer Reports first measured them in April 2009.

"The recovery is sluggishly moving forward. This month's reported sentiment setback and increased financial woes may have been promoted by perception rather than reality. The steady, gradual improvement in the employment picture, if maintained, is a very positive sign and may work to resolve the continued weakness in retail as consumer confidence builds," said Farrell.

For the fourth straight month, job gains outpaced job losses. The Consumer Reports Index's employment measure was little changed this month, rising slightly to 50.9 from 50.6 a month earlier. This month was among the strongest in job starts at 7.7%, up from 5.5% the prior month. However, this gain was partially offset by a steep rise in job losses to 6.0% from 4.2% a month earlier.

The level of stress that consumers reported was unchanged at 55.7 from 55.2 last month. The most stressed Americans: women (57.7), those in households earning under $50,000 (58.5), aged 35-64 (57.2), and those in the South (58.0).

The Consumer Reports Index report comprises responses directly from consumers on five key measures: the Sentiment Index, the Trouble Tracker Index, the Stress Index, the Retail Index and the Employment Index.

The Consumer Reports Index, conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center, is a monthly telephone and cell phone poll of a nationally representative probability sample of American adults. A total of 1,010 interviews were completed (660 telephone and 350 cell phone) among adults aged 18+. Interviewing took place between June 27 and June 30. The margin of error is +/- 3.2 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.

JULY 2013

The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports®, ConsumerReports.org ® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open to it to prevent commercial use of its materials, its name, or the name of Consumer Reports®.

SOURCE Consumer Reports
The complete index report, methodology and tabular information are available. Contact: Cassie Eberle, 704-987-4112, ceberle@catalystimg.com.

Consumer Reports / Consumer Reports: Consumers Can Save 40 Percent Or More On Eyeglasses

« Last post by Re-Branding Nigeria Clubs on June 28, 2013, 06:16:17 am »

27 Jun 2013 11:00 Africa/Lagos

Consumer Reports: Consumers Can Save 40 Percent Or More On Eyeglasses By Shopping Online and at Discount Retailers
Costco tops ratings of eyeglass chains and other discounters

YONKERS, N.Y., June 27, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Buying eyeglasses from the eye doctor's office is convenient, but can be costly. Comparison shopping among different types of eyewear stores including online and discount retailers takes time but can save consumers 40 percent or more. Consumer Reports' most recent survey about its readers' eyeglass-shopping experiences found that Costco was a standout for overall satisfaction – including cost – among chains such as EyeMasters, LensCrafters, Pearle Vision, and Sears Optical and other discounters including BJ's Optical, Sam's Club Optical, and Walmart Vision Center.

The full report and Ratings of eyeglass retailers are available in the August 2013 issue of Consumer Reports and online at www.ConsumerReports.org.

"If you want a deal on eyeglasses, step outside the optometrist's office before deciding to buy," said Tony Giorgianni, Associate Editor for Consumer Reports. "By doing a little research and shopping around, it's possible to get a great pair of glasses and save money."

Consumer Reports surveyed almost 19,500 readers to find out how much they paid for eyeglasses and to gauge their level of satisfaction regarding their overall shopping experience for them. Frame selection, customer service and employee expertise were among the attributes also rated. Respondents spent a median of $244 out-of-pocket on their last pair of prescription specs.

Despite its fair rating for its selection of frames, Costco earned top marks for cost, quality and follow-up service. While readers were essentially pleased with their purchase at retailers like EyeMasters, Pearle Vision and Sears Optical, results were mixed. LensCrafters was singled out as the place to get eyewear the fastest – almost half of readers who shopped there had their glasses the same or next day.

Consumer Reports found that online eyeglass retailers offer a huge selection and low prices. Consumers can save significantly by shopping sites such as FramesDirect.com, SimplyEyeglasses.com, Eyeglasses.com, and LensesRx.com. New sites such as Zenni Optical (zennioptical.com), Warby Parker (warbyparker.com) and Classic Specs (classicspecs.com), offer a complete single-vision pair of specs for less than $100, but they primarily sell their own proprietary glasses.

Remember, online buying means having to wait for the glasses to arrive in the mail and shipping them back if there's a problem and these sites don't provide the in-person service customers would get at a walk-in store, which could be a problem if frames need adjusting, for example. Shoppers shouldn't expect online shops to take vision insurance, but they may be able to obtain reimbursement from their provider.

Buying Advice

There are many choices and factors to consider when buying eyeglasses – and it can be easy lose sight of finding a good deal. Consumer Reports suggests the following tips for those in the market for a new a pair of lenses and frames:

Research online. Even if the plan is to buy locally, consider reading how-to information on websites such as Eyeglasses.com and LensesRx Online Optical. Knowing something about the types of frames, lenses and coatings can help consumers understand their options and sense whether a store or website is trying to up-sell them.
Get a doctor's recommendation. If a current prescription is more than a year old, have an optometrist or ophthalmologist do an eye check before ordering new glasses. Request that the doctor measures and records pupillary distance, which is needed to order lenses online.
Negotiate. If frames available locally are priced for less online, give the walk-in store a chance to match or at least come close to the best online price. Remember, a walk-in shop can provide frame adjustments and other post-purchase services that can be difficult or impossible to get online, so it may be worth paying extra.
Check warranties and return policies. A good retailer should have at least a one-year warranty against defects in frames. For instance, Eyeglasses.com says most of its frames are covered by the manufacturer for one or two years and that it will process warranty claims on the customer's behalf.

Consumer Reports is the world's largest independent product-testing organization. Using its more than 50 labs, auto test center, and survey research center, the nonprofit rates thousands of products and services annually. Founded in 1936, Consumer Reports has over 8 million subscribers to its magazine, website and other publications. Its advocacy division, Consumers Union, works for health reform, product safety, financial reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

JUNE 2013

The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports®, ConsumerReports.org® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open to it to prevent commercial use of its materials, its name, or the name of Consumer Reports®.

SOURCE Consumer Reports
CONTACTS: Melissa Valentino, Consumer Reports, 914.378.2432, mvalentino@consumer.org, or Cassie Eberle 704.987.4112, Catalyst, ceberle@catalystimg.com

Web Site: http://www.consumerreports.org

Consumer Reports / Consumer Reports Index: Americans' Financial Woes Fall to Lowest Level

« Last post by Re-Branding Nigeria Clubs on June 11, 2013, 12:20:57 pm »

11 Jun 2013 11:00 Africa/Lagos

Consumer Reports Index: Americans' Financial Woes Fall to Lowest Level in Four Years
Sentiment stable as employment measure records third straight month in positive territory

YONKERS, N.Y., June 11, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Consumer Reports Index, an overall measure of Americans' personal financial health, shows Americans are reporting significantly fewer financial troubles. The Index's trouble tracker measure fell sharply to 34.0 from 41.7 a month earlier—the lowest level since the organization first measured it in April 2009.

The Consumer Reports trouble tracker has dropped more than 50 percent from its high-water mark in September 2009, when this measure reached 68.7. The greatest drop in financial difficulties over the past 30 days was among those in households earning less than $50,000, followed by the most affluent in homes earning $100,000 or more. Amidst this general drop in financial difficulties, middle-income Americans experienced a slight rise in financial troubles.

The Consumer Reports Index's trouble tracker measure focuses on both the proportion of consumers that have faced difficulties as well as the number of negative events they have encountered. The negative events include: the inability to pay medical bills or afford medication; missed mortgage payment; home foreclosure; interest-rate increase, penalty fees, reduced lines of credit or other changes in credit-card terms; job loss; reduced health-care coverage; and, the denial of personal loans.

"The data offers a glimpse that consumers may be starting to see and feel the progress of the economic recovery," said Ed Farrell, director of consumer insight at the Consumer Reports National Research Center.

The Consumer Reports Index's sentiment measure declined 1.9 points to 52.6 from its high point of 54.5 last month, but overall remains in positive territory. The drop was attributable to a fallback among two segments: consumers in households earning less than $50,000 (-2.

, and those with a high school education or less (-4.7).

The Consumer Reports Index's employment measure showed that job gains outpaced job losses for the third straight month. The employment measure was little changed this month, rising slightly to 50.6 from 50.3 a month earlier. This uptick was attributable to an increase in the proportion of Americans starting a new job in the past 30 days, and job gains outpaced job losses by a widening margin. The only group that shed more jobs than it gained was among those with a high school education or less.

"Despite the improvements, consumers are still frigid about robust spending. We are watching closely waiting to see how long it will take them to thaw out from the mindset created by the conditions of the past five years," Farrell said.

The Consumer Reports Index's past 30-day retail measure halted four straight months of decline, ticking upward to 9.2 from 8.7 a month earlier. Among the retail categories the Index tracks, the gain was driven primarily by a large seasonal rise in the major lawn and garden equipment category, and a small uptick in major appliances. The Index also shows that consumers are still not comfortable with robust spending. Planned spending for the next 30 days, reflecting potential June activity, is at 6.0, its lowest level since first measured in April 2009.

The level of stress that consumers felt was up slightly to 55.2 from 53.8 last month. The most stressed Americans: women (55.

, those in households earning under $50,000 (57.1), aged 18-34 (56.6), and those in the North East (57.6).

The Consumer Reports Index report, comprises responses directly from consumers on five key measures: the Sentiment Index, the Trouble Tracker Index, the Stress Index, the Retail Index and the Employment Index.

The Consumer Reports Index, conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center, is a monthly telephone and cell phone poll of a nationally representative probability sample of American adults. A total of 1,018 interviews were completed (668 telephone and 350 cell phone) among adults aged 18+. Interviewing took place between May 30 and June 2. The margin of error is +/- 3.2 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.

The complete index report, methodology and tabular information are available. Contact: C. Matt Fields, 914-378-2454, CFields@consumer.org

JUNE 2013
The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports®, ConsumerReports.org ® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open to it to prevent commercial use of its materials, its name, or the name of Consumer Reports®.

SOURCE Consumer Reports
CONTACT: C. Matt Fields 914.378.2454, cfields@consumer.org, or James McQueen 914.378.2839, jmcqueen@consumer.org

Web Site: http://www.ConsumerReports.org

Top Brands and Services / Re: On the Web, Traffic is king and Maxvisits Leads the Way

« Last post by Malaki on May 19, 2013, 07:15:31 am »

Maxvisits sounds like a great site. I'll try buying traffic from Maxvisits and see what it can bring for my business.

Consumer Reports / Consumer Reports Gas Grill Tests: Weber's Spirit Line Tops Latest Ratings

« Last post by Re-Branding Nigeria Clubs on May 16, 2013, 07:46:35 am »

15 May 2013 11:00 Africa/Lagos

Consumer Reports Gas Grill Tests: Weber's Spirit Line Tops Latest Ratings
Five features to look for when buying a grill; Plus, great grilling accessories that add sizzle to any cook out

YONKERS, N.Y., May 15, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In Consumer Reports' new Ratings of more than 100 gas grills, models from Weber's Spirit line were among the highest scoring in its latest tests. The full report on gas grills, which includes comprehensive buying advice and reviews of great gadgets for grilling fish, veggies, and more, is featured in the June 2013 issue of Consumer Reports and online at www.ConsumerReports.org.

Models from Weber's recently revamped Spirit line received high scores in Consumer Reports' tests. The top-rated, mid-sized Weber Spirit SP-320, $600, and small-sized Weber Spirit E-220, $450, preheated quickly and evenly, and were superb at high- and low-temperature evenness. And both have electronic igniters and long burner warranties which are among Consumer Reports' desirable features for gas grills.

In the large grills category, Consumer Reports' top performers included the KitchenAid 720-0709C, $800, and the Master Forge 3218LTN, $600. The KitchenAid, available at Sam's Club, was quick to preheat and capable once it did, while the Master Forge, available at Lowe's, offered fine performance, mostly stainless-steel styling, a folding prep table and lots of storage at a relatively low price.

"You don't always get what you pay for if you choose the most expensive grill on the market," said Celia Kuperszmid Lehrman, Deputy Home Editor for Consumer Reports. "Some budget-friendly models delivered impressive performance and came with the bonus of electronic igniters and long warranties for burners – something to look for if you're hoping to stick with your grill for the long haul."

Five Features that Count

More grills now have convenient features such as electronic igniters, fuel gauges, illuminated control knobs for nighttime grilling, and fold-down shelves for food prep. Here are five gas-grill features to consider when buying:

1. Electronic igniters are usually easier and more reliable than a rotary or push-button starter.
2. Rounded edges are safer than sharp ones, especially if kids are afoot. To test a grill's sturdiness, nudge it in several places, and press down on the side shelf to see if it will support a heavy pot.
3. Burner warranties of 10 years or longer are a plus since burners are the most frequently replaced part.
4. Stainless steel or coated cast-iron grates tend to be better for searing, though stainless is more durable.
5. The cooking surface should be big enough to fit enough food to feed a griller's usual crowd. Larger grills usually have bigger cooking areas, but not always. Keep in mind, Consumer Reports doesn't count warming racks and searing burners in its measurements, but manufacturers might.

Great Grilling Gadgets

Consumer Reports' also tried out grill gadgets – including veggie, fish, and rib cookers, and pizza stones. Here's what testers found.

Master Forge grill wok[ 25375, $17 (Lowe's). Keeps smaller batches of vegetables or small fish such as shrimp or scallops from going overboard due to its deeper sides and bowl-like shape, but a large amount of food might cook unevenly if it's piled up.
Brinkmann flexible grilling basket 812-9012, $16 (Home Depot). Cooks large quantities of thin fish fillets such as sole or tilapia, or vegetables cut flat such as eggplant or zucchini because of its 24x16-inch surface area, but all food must be the same thickness or thinner items may fall out when the basket is flipped over. Its large size also made it awkward to flip, open to remove food, and wash.
Weber original rib and roast holder, $20. Cooks full racks of ribs upright on large grills. Testers cooked a roast, turning it once, and it came out just as well as one cooked on a grill spit. But testers couldn't close medium-sized grill lids when they placed this big holder front-to-back to hold full racks of ribs because it stuck out.
Weber Style pizza stone 6430, $50. Cooks one large pizza or several personal-sized ones. A handle allows users to easily move the stone from the grill or rotate during cooking to adapt to hotter spots and a holder elevates the stone so it's not as likely to crack if placed on a wet surface, for example when removed from the grill. However, the metal holder, like the stone, will be burning hot when moved from the grill, so Consumer Reports recommends using oven mitts and caution.

Consumer Reports is the world's largest independent product-testing organization. Using its more than 50 labs, auto test center, and survey research center, the nonprofit rates thousands of products and services annually. Founded in 1936, Consumer Reports has over 8 million subscribers to its magazine, website and other publications. Its advocacy division, Consumers Union, works for health reform, product safety, financial reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

MAY 2013
The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports®, ConsumerReports.org® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open to it to prevent commercial use of its materials, its name, or the name of Consumer Reports®.

SOURCE Consumer Reports
CONTACT: Melissa Valentino Consumer Reports, 914.378.2432, mvalentino@consumer.org or Cassie Eberle, Catalyst, 704.987.4112, cassie.eberle@imgworld.com

Web Site: http://www.ConsumerReports.org

Top Brands and Services / On the Web, Traffic is king and Maxvisits Leads the Way

« Last post by Osinachi on April 26, 2013, 07:35:52 am »

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Consumer Rights / New EU rules on consumer rights to enter into force

« Last post by Osinachi on April 25, 2013, 03:25:40 pm »

New EU rules on consumer rights to enter into force

The new EU Consumer Rights Directive has been formally adopted today by Member States in the EU's Council of Ministers. The new legislation will strengthen consumers' rights in all 27 EU countries, particularly when shopping online. After publication in the EU's Official Journal, governments will have two years to implement the rules at national level. Today's approval follows an overwhelming vote to back the rules by the European Parliament on 23 June 2011 (MEMO/11/450). The European Commission put forward the proposal in October 2008 (IP/08/1474). The final agreement between Parliament and Council on the Consumer Rights Directive was brokered by EU Justice Commissioner Viviane Reding in June this year.

Top 10 benefits for consumers in the new Directive:

1) The proposal will eliminate hidden charges and costs on the Internet

Consumers will be protected against "cost traps" on the Internet. This happens when fraudsters try to trick people into paying for ‘free’ services, such as horoscopes or recipes. From now on, consumers must explicitly confirm that they understand that they have to pay a price.

2) Increased price transparency

Traders have to disclose the total cost of the product or service, as well as any extra fees. Online shoppers will not have to pay charges or other costs if they were not properly informed before they place an order.

3) Banning pre-ticked boxes on websites

When shopping online – for instance buying a plane ticket – you may be offered additional options during the purchase process, such as travel insurance or car rental. These additional services may be offered through so-called ‘pre-ticked’ boxes. Consumers are currently often forced to untick those boxes if they do not want these extra services. With the new Directive, pre-ticked boxes will be banned across the European Union.

4) 14 Days to change your mind on a purchase

The period under which consumers can withdraw from a sales contract is extended to 14 calendar days (compared to seven days legally prescribed by EU law today). This means that consumers can return the goods for whatever reason if they change their minds.

Extra protection for lack of information: When a seller hasn’t clearly informed the customer about the withdrawal right, the return period will be extended to a year.

Consumers will also be protected and enjoy a right of withdrawal for solicited visits, such as when a trader called beforehand and pressed the consumer to agree to a visit. In addition, a distinction no longer needs to be made between solicited and unsolicited visits; circumvention of the rules will thus be prevented.

The right of withdrawal is extended to online auctions, such as eBay – though goods bought in auctions can only be returned when bought from a professional seller.

The withdrawal period will start from the moment the consumer receives the goods, rather than at the time of conclusion of the contract, which is currently the case. The rules will apply to internet, phone and mail order sales, as well as to sales outside shops, for example on the consumer's doorstep, in the street, at a Tupperware party or during an excursion organised by the trader.

5) Better refund rights

Traders must refund consumers for the product within 14 days of the withdrawal. This includes the costs of delivery. In general, the trader will bear the risk for any damage to goods during transportation, until the consumer takes possession of the goods

6) Introduction of an EU-wide model withdrawal form

Consumers will be provided with a model withdrawal form which they can (but are not obliged to) use if they change their mind and wish to withdraw from a contract concluded at a distance or at the doorstep. This will make it easier and faster to withdraw, wherever you have concluded a contract in the EU.

7) Eliminating surcharges for the use of credit cards and hotlines

Traders will not be able to charge consumers more for paying by credit card (or other means of payment) than what it actually costs the trader to offer such means of payment. Traders who operate telephone hotlines allowing the consumer to contact them in relation to the contract will not be able charge more than the basic telephone rate for the telephone calls.

Clearer information on who pays for returning goods

If traders want the consumer to bear the cost of returning goods after they change their mind, they have to clearly inform consumers about that beforehand, otherwise they have to pay for the return themselves. Traders must clearly give at least an estimate of the maximum costs of returning bulky goods bought by internet or mail order, such as a sofa, before the purchase, so consumers can make an informed choice before deciding from whom to buy.

9) Better consumer protection in relation to digital products

Information on digital content will also have to be clearer, including about its compatibility with hardware and software and the application of any technical protection measures, for example limiting the right for the consumers to make copies of the content.

Consumers will have a right to withdraw from purchases of digital content, such as music or video downloads, but only up until the moment the actual downloading process begins.

10) Common rules for businesses will make it easier for them to trade all over Europe.

These include:

A single set of core rules for distance contracts (sales by phone, post or internet) and off-premises contracts (sales away from a company’s premises, such as in the street or the doorstep) in the European Union, creating a level playing field and reducing transaction costs for cross-border traders, especially for sales by internet.

Standard forms will make life easier for businesses: a form to comply with the information requirements on the right of withdrawal;

Specific rules will apply to small businesses and craftsmen, such as a plumber. There will be no right of withdrawal for urgent repairs and maintenance work. Member States may also decide to exempt traders who are requested by consumers to carry out repair and maintenance work in their home of a value below €200 from some of the information requirements.

For more information:

European Commission – Consumer Rights Directive

http://ec.europa.eu/justice/consumer-marketing/rights-contracts/directive/index_en.htm

Homepage of Vice-President Viviane Reding, EU Justice Commissioner:

http://ec.europa.eu/reding

About Us / Why the Nigerian Consumers Opinion Forum?

« Last post by Osinachi on April 25, 2013, 09:36:06 am »

The Nigerian Consumers Opinion Forum is an open public information discussion forum on the internet to rate companies, brands, products and services in Nigeria, the biggest and largest market for consumers in Africa and among the major markets in the world.

It has become important and necessary to start the Nigerian Consumers Opinion Forum, because we have noticed the widespread ignorance of consumers on the general distribution and consumption of goods and services in Nigeria where many fake drugs, foods and products are openly sold on the streets and markets without the approval of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and often not noticed by the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) of Nigeria, because consumers are not informed on their rights and not educated to alert and report to NAFDAC and CPC whenever they have complaints about bad products and services.

The Nigerian Consumers Opinion Forum like similar consumer advocacy groups in the world will engage in active community mobilization and sensitization of consumers online and offline to protect consumers from the following:

Corporate abuse
Unsafe products and services
Predatory lending
False advertising
Astroturfing and
Pollution.

Nigerian Consumers Opinion Forum will use Opinion Polls and Surveys for findings and ratings on products and services in Nigeria; disseminating market information, and prohibiting specific acts or practices, or by promoting competitive forces in the markets which directly or indirectly affect consumers (such as transport, electricity, communications, etc.)

We shall act as public whistle blowers and watchdogs for the consumers in Nigeria to enforce consumer rights.

The right to Satisfaction of Basic Needs.
Access to basic goods and services necessary for survival, such as food, water, energy, clothing, shelter, health-care, education and sanitation.
Goods and services must meet the standard of quality promised such that there is value for money in the purchase.

The Right to Safety
Protection from hazardous products, production processes and services.

The Right to Information
Provision of information enabling informed consumer choice as well as protection from misleading or inaccurate advertising and labeling.

The Right to Choose
Access to variety of quality products and services at competitive prices.

The Right to Redress
Compensation for misrepresentation, shoddy goods and unsatisfactory public and private services, including the right to adequate legal representation.

The Right to Consumer Education
Acquisition of the skills required to be an informed consumer throughout life.

The Right to Consumer Representation
Advocacy of consumers' interest and the ability to take part in the formulation of economic and other policies affecting consumers i.e. the right to be heard.

The Right to a Healthy Environment
Habitation is a place that is safe for present and future generations and which will enhance the quality of their lives.

Please, note that the Nigerian Consumers Opinion Forum is not an NGO or a private company, but a free public opinion forum that will function from a general website where consumers will express themselves and post their comments or opinions on their experiences and observations of the numerous and various products and services given or sold to them in Nigeria.

We look forward to the cooperation and support of all consumers, producers, manufacturers, distributors, advertisers marketers, promoters and all those in Nigeria and abroad who care about the safety, security and welfare of Nigerian consumers.

PS:
The Nigerian Consumers Opinion Forum is a public opinion group of Nigerians Report® Online, the most authoritative and internationally recognized Nigerian news and information blog published and edited by Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima, a registered member of the American Consumer Opinion®.