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Christmas Gifts as a Flop? That Could Be Good to Know

Nobody is perfect - that's why Christmas gifts can also turn out to be a flop. But instead of burying your head in the sand, it might be worth taking a look at the explanations from the Association for Consumer Information (VKI).

Even when buying gifts, you can be mistaken about people. In the worst case, the recipient simply does not enjoy their present. The problem: "You cannot simply withdraw from a purchase contract validly concluded in the store," as the VKI explained on Monday in a release under the point "Exchange for Dislike." "Exchanging goods is not a legally anchored right, but a concession from the retailer." The good news: "Many companies, however, show leniency, especially during the Christmas season, and offer their customers an exchange option." 

Internet instead of Shopping Center

But not all Christmas gifts are purchased on-site in the store - keyword Internet. "When shopping online, consumers have a legally anchored right of withdrawal, as the goods cannot be inspected before purchase. The withdrawal period is 14 days from receipt of delivery. Some online retailers also voluntarily offer longer return periods," according to the VKI statement. Good to know: "A simple declaration is sufficient for a withdrawal, but written is recommended. Simply returning the goods without comment is not enough." Important: "It should be noted that there is no right of withdrawal for certain products - such as personalized goods (e.g., engraved jewelry) or unsealed data carriers."

Warranty and Guarantee

Two terms that some may encounter through Christmas gifts are "warranty" and "guarantee." The former is "a legally guaranteed right that applies regardless of the place of purchase (stationary, online). If it turns out that a product is defective, the buyer is entitled to repair, replacement, price reduction, or refund. Companies are obliged to fulfill these claims and cannot exclude or limit the warranty," the VKI stated. And the guarantee? This is a "voluntary additional service offered by the company or manufacturer. The exact conditions are set out in the warranty terms and vary depending on the company. However, if a guarantee is given, it is binding and must be adhered to."

Read more here and here.

More about Christmas can be found here.

(Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.

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