Business Support
Online advice and information for many retail-based businesses can be obtained through ERWIN (Everything Regulation Whenever It's Needed). ERWIN provides you with a list of relevant and prioritised advice packs in accordance with your business type.
If you are in the non-retail sector, or need further business advice, you are welcome to contact us by telephone at 01473 264859 or by email at tradingstandards@suffolk.gov.uk
Sale of Goods Act Hub
The Office of Fair Trading has produced an online hub specifically aimed at retail staff to help you to understand the law on customer returns.
SOGA hub contains a variety of materials suited to different requirements: from detailed explanations and examples to at-a-glance flow charts to guide you and your team through customers’ rights and how to deal with returns and complaints.
There are many training materials and downloads available at the SOGA hub.
Distance Selling Hub
The Office of Fair Trading has also produced an online hub designed to inform retailers and consumers about the distance selling regulations.
It includes a variety of information, from flowcharts to scenarios.
For more information visit the Distance Selling Hub.
Consumer Credit Licence
Under the Consumer Credit Act, businesses that offer goods or services on credit or lend money or are involved in activities relating to credit or hire must be licensed by the OFT. The OFT has a duty to protect the interests of consumers by monitoring the fitness of those holding or applying for licences.
The OFT have announced from 11 April 2011, the fees for a consumer credit licence will increase; for details of these changes visit the OFT.
Environmental Claims and Excessive Packaging
Businesses need to be aware of the language for promoting the "green" aspect of their products. DEFRA produce guidance to green claims, this and more information can be found here.
Home Improvements
Top Tips (59KB) for Businesses on Home Repairs and Improvements
To read more about Trading Standards visit our homepage.
