CCPC warns retailers to show bag prices
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has reminded retailers that they must display prices for paper bags and similar products in line with consumer law.
The move follows calls to the CCPC helpline from consumers indicating that there is no display signage in-store or around the check-out area in some stores showing the prices of shopping bags for sale.
The watchdog points out that, under consumer law, retailers must clearly display prices for items being sold. These prices must be unambiguous, easily identifiable, clearly legible, and on or near the product.
‘Potentially concerning’ practices
In a letter to retailers, it has warned that it may take further action where breaches of the law are detected, ranging from the issuing of fixed-payment notices and compliance notices up to prosecution in the courts.
Aoibhín de Búrca (CCPC director of communications and consumer information) said that consumers had a right to know the price of any product they bought, including shopping bags.
“They should not be put on the spot at the till to pay it or notice it afterwards on their receipts,” she added.
She said that the contacts through the CCPC helpline had highlighted “potentially concerning practices” on price displays.