Since the commencement of the Consumer Protection Act, there have been some businesses who have stubbornly resisted compliance with its provisions, for example declaring as a shop policy that no refunds or returns will be allowed under any circumstances. There have also been many consumers who have misconceived their rights under the Act, believing that they have an unfettered entitlement to return goods and insist upon a refund, for any reason or no reason at all.

There are a number of respected businesses who allow consumers to return goods purchased from them – for a full refund, with no questions asked – within a specific number of days. These businesses have such a policy because they realise that it is such an attitude to business which produces happy, loyal customers. They are under no legal obligation to accept returns and make refunds in all cases.

For example, you might buy…