Seasonal Sales in Serbia: Retailer Tricks and Rules You Must Know
Today, July 1st, seasonal sales kick off in Serbia, and many shoppers are already wondering how long they will last and what is allowed or not. The Trade Law clearly defines the rules, but retailers are not shy about using various tricks to make you spend more than you planned.
The rules are clear, but retailers play games Seasonal sales in Serbia can last up to 60 days and start on July 1st and 15th, as well as December 25th and January 10th. During this period, no winter products are allowed on shelves, only items suitable for the current season. Also, at least 20% of the assortment must have clearly marked discounted prices. If you see a sign saying “30% off,” it means that 20% of the products in the store must be discounted by that percentage.
However, Marko Dragić, legal advisor to the National Consumer Organization of Serbia (NOPS), warns that retailers often use the “off-season” as an excuse to sell winter clothes even though it is summer. For example, wool coats in July? Nobody wears them at that time, but retailers still offer them, which is illegal.
Retailer tricks: How they fool you Readers have sent us photos of jackets and coats in well-known shopping centers, and Dragić explains that retailers often hide standard sizes or do not display them to force you to buy more expensive or less popular models. Also, discounts outside the legally defined periods are prohibited, except for promotional offers which are more common in supermarkets around holidays or important dates.
What about clearance sales? By law, clearance sales can only happen when a retailer is closing a store or ceasing business. So if you see a clearance sale in a regular store, be suspicious – it might just be a marketing trick.
Why does this matter? The law is there to protect consumers, but without your attention and knowledge, you can easily be deceived. Seasonal sales are a chance to buy quality goods at lower prices, but only if you know your rights and the rules of the game.
Conclusion: Be smart shoppers! Don’t be fooled by big discount signs. Check if the price is really lower and if the product fits the season. If you see a wool coat in July, ask yourself – why is it there? And remember, seasonal sales last a maximum of 60 days, so if you see discounts outside that period, it’s probably just a trick.
Now, dear readers, have you encountered any of these tricks? Or maybe you’re the one who noticed them and are ready to expose them? Drop a comment, share your experience, and let’s expose these little retail secrets together!
Source: Blic Biznis, statements by Marko Dragić, legal advisor of NOPS
