CONTACT: Susan Bach, Director of Communications
PHONE: 414- 847- 6085
FAX: 414-302- 0355
E-MAIL: sbach@wisconsin.bbb.org
August 4, 2010, Milwaukee, Wis. — The Wisconsin State Fair, which begins on Thursday, is a prime location for businesses to showcase their products and ideas. The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau is offering tips for consumers who are considering making purchases at this year’s events.
• Prior to making a purchase, get the company’s refund and exchange policy — in writing, if possible.
• Obtain the company’s physical location and telephone number, in case you need to return or exchange an item after the event.
• As with any purchase, it makes sense to comparison shop. Keep in mind, however, that the least expensive item may not always be the best value. If you are making a large purchase, don’t be afraid to leave the fairgrounds to do some research.
• Don’t be pressured to buy. After the demonstration or sales pitch, walk away from the sales person to give yourself some time to think about the purchase.
• Ask the vendor if a sale price will be honored after the fair — if so, you will not feel pressured to purchase the item “on the spot.”
• 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:
1. Purchases under $25
2. Goods or services not primarily intended for personal, family, or household purposes
3. Insurance, securities, or real estate
4. Motor vehicles
5. Arts and crafts
In addition, the BBB advises State Fair attendees to be careful of entering drawings for vacations or other prizes. Often times, to claim these “prizes”, you’ll need to pay an upfront fee or attend a high-pressure sales seminar.
For more information or further inquiries, please contact the Wisconsin BBB at http://www.wisconsin.bbb.org or 414-847-6000 (metro Milwaukee), (920)-734-4352 (Appleton) or 1-800-273-1002 (elsewhere in Wisconsin).
The Better Business Bureau serving Wisconsin is a nonprofit organization that brings 70 years of experience in fostering ethical business practices; providing dispute resolution alternatives; offering consumer and business education; and promoting customer service excellence. Our Reliability Reports provide the general public with critical information about companies both locally and nationally. To check on a company or charity visit http://www.wisconsin.bbb.org or call 1-800-273-1002.
