With fall officially here, it is time to start thinking about the North Carolina State Fair, which will be taking place in Raleigh October 12-22. Besides culinary novelties and family fun, attendees also have the opportunity to view business’ booths and products. While it’s easy to get caught up in the curious crowd, Better Business Bureau serving Eastern North Carolina (BBB)wants consumers to remember that day-to-day purchasing rules still apply before making decisions.
“Last year, the North Carolina State Fair had over one million attendees, with many of those visitors stopping to see what the vendors had to offer,” said Mallory Wojciechowski, president and CEO of BBB serving Eastern NC. “We want to remind those fair-goers that they should still be checking if a business is trustworthy before deciding to purchase a product or service, even at a venue like the fair.”
If you plan on attending the North Carolina State Fair this weekend, keep these BBB tips in mind:
Do your research. BBB Business Reviews are optimized for smartphones. You can research companies for free at bbb.org or by calling 919-277-4222.
Obtain Policy Details. Ask about the return policy, and if the company has a physical location and telephone number in case there is an issue.
Avoid Pressure Sales Tactics. Don’t be pressured to buy, no matter how pushy the salesperson may be. After the demonstration or sales pitch, give yourself some time to think. Ask the vendor if a sale price will be honored after the State Fair. If so, you will not feel as pressured to purchase the item on the spot.
Remember FTC’s “Cooling Off Rule.” It’s important to note that the Federal Trade Commission’s “cooling-off rule,” which normally allows consumers three days to cancel a purchase, does not apply to the following purchases at fairs:
- Purchases under $25;
- Goods or services not primarily intended for personal, family, or household purposes;
- Insurance, securities, or real estate;
- Motor vehicles; and Arts and crafts.
For more information you can trust, visit www.bbb.org
