Consumer Affairs Division advises parents to be savvy about last-minute purchases of back-to-school supplies

With parents having only three days left for their back-to-school shopping – ahead of the new school year opening on September 5 – the Prices and Consumer Affairs Division is advising customers to shop with caution in order to avoid disputes over refunds.

Joanne Peters, the Division’s Press Information Officer, says there are quite a few factors on which consumers must decide before making purchases.

Peters notes that some parents who opt not to purchase supplies for repeating students will change their minds at the last minute and rush to get them, as well as to buy uniforms. Or parents who have already bought supplies may decide they want to return them.

In such cases, Peters says, parents should always think things through before spending their money and ensure they are receiving good bargains.

Peters adds that involving children in purchasing decisions can be beneficial and it helps to avoid returns – especially when buying school bags.

Meanwhile, some parents purchase school supplies online – which is encouraged once items can be bought cheaper, Peters says. However, she is reminding them that there is nothing her office can do if the wrong items are shipped here.

A digital newsletter was launched by the Division earlier in August. It is filled with tips for back-to-school shopping and with other guidelines to ensure parents and guardians make wise purchasing decisions.