The Office of Fair Trading is reminding businesses to be scrupulous when buying advertising and promotional products and services, after new reports of dodgy activity.
Minister for Fair Trading Peter Lawlor said Gold Coast businesses had reported dubious practices by local companies selling advertising space on bar mats, coasters and score cards found in places like bowls clubs, golf clubs and RSLs.
"These companies have been contacting businesses in the region to see if they want to put an ad on the back of the items for a fee of several hundred dollars," he said.
"The impression is given that there is an agreement or affiliation with local venues such as bowls clubs to supply the coasters and other products for use in the club.
"Quantities of these printed products are dumped at the venue unsolicited and often the club is scratching its head as to why they are there and throw them out.
"Unfortunately the inside of a bin is often the o nly place the ad is seen.
"In some cases, no products are supplied at all."
Mr Lawlor said the same rules applied when buying advertising as to when purchasing other expensive goods and services.
"Ask questions about the terms and conditions - don't just assume," he said.
"Get it in writing, particularly stating when the goods will be delivered and where.
"Make sure you understand what's being offered before signing, and if you're not happy with the conditions or not confident that the company is reputable, go elsewhere or give it a miss."
For further information about consumer rights contact the Office of Fair Trading by visiting www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au or calling 13 13 04.
Issued by Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading
The Honourable Peter Lawlor
19/01/2010
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