Even the Christ Child makes mistakes sometimes. Read here what you can do if the wrong gift was under the Christmas tree and what rights you have as a consumer.
No later than when you receive the new tea towels, the third tie or the next mixing stick, the mood of many recipients of a Christmas gift changes. But what can consumers do if they don’t like presents or if Santa Claus has brought them two or three times?
Returns are often easier in online stores
Stock market! Is it that simple? It depends…
- When trading online, there is usually a 14-day right of withdrawal. In stationary retail, the return or exchange of goods must be arranged separately. Some stores offer generous exchange options, even without legal obligation. Some people refund the money if they don’t like it.
- There is no right of return or exchange in retail stationary items. If you are unsure whether a gift will be well received, it is best to arrange a return or exchange option with the store. Ideally within a longer period and confirmed in writing on the receipt or invoice. In any case, keep the packaging. Companies often require that returns be in the original packaging.
- If you have ordered the gifts online, you can collect (almost) all products. This means that you can return the goods and receive a refund of the purchase price. Please note that according to the Distance Selling Act, cancellation must be made within 14 days (after receipt of the goods and cancellation instructions). Public holidays and weekends do not extend these 14 days.
- Christmas presents are often ordered and delivered so early that the withdrawal period has already expired after the Christmas holidays. Some online shops therefore voluntarily offer a longer notice period. Please note: Even if you return the goods online, you are obliged to send the goods to the company in the original packaging. Therefore, do not throw away the packaging.
- If the product is defective, you have the right to have it improved. Within the framework of the legal warranty, the company is obliged to remedy the defect. Repair or replacement is taking place. However, you must receive the same product.
- If the same defect occurs again, you can insist on a change. This means that you can return the purchased item and get your money back at the same time. The period for legally asserting the guarantee for movable property is two years. During the first twelve months, the company must prove that the defect was not present when the item was handed over.
Source: Krone
I’m Ben Stock, a journalist and author at Today Times Live. I specialize in economic news and have been working in the news industry for over five years. My experience spans from local journalism to international business reporting. In my career I’ve had the opportunity to interview some of the world’s leading economists and financial experts, giving me an insight into global trends that is unique among journalists.
