Consumer Affairs Warns About Liquidation Sales

ddb:liquidat.pr 97- 25 Contact: Sue Rogan, (301) 217-7391

CONSUMER AFFAIRS WARNS
ABOUT LIQUIDATION SALES FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 30, 1997

Consumers who are thinking about purchasing items from stores that are in the process
of liquidating their merchandise should carefully check the items prior to buying, warns the
Montgomery County Division of Consumer Affairs (DCA), Department of Housing and
Community Affairs. Consumer Affairs receives complaints every year regarding liquidation,
bankruptcy and going out of business sales.
These types of sales are normally conducted by liquidators who sell off the store's
remaining merchandise. Complaints relate primarily to claims by consumers that the products
are defective, requests for refunds have been rejected, the alleged discount prices may be
deceptive and that outside liquidators bring in merchandise of an inferior quality.
Most stores have a number of signs clearly announcing that all sales are final and
receipts also show that information. DCA is warning consumers that such a policy is usually
rigidly enforced. Therefore, they should be aware that requests for refunds for any reason are
not likely to be granted. Items should be thoroughly examined before leaving the store.
Merchandise should not be purchased "sight unseen", i.e., in unopened boxes. Any defects
should be brought to the attention of the store manager before a purchase is finalized.

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CONSUMERS WARNED ABOUT LIQUIDATIONS 2-2-2-2

"While we advise consumers to contact the manufacturer for repairs to the defective
item under the manufacturer's warranty, it is easier for consumers to check out an item prior
to purchase than it is to get the product fixed under a manufacturer's warranty or to remedy
the situation by filing a complaint with our Division of Consumer Affairs," said Elizabeth
Davison, Director, Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Consumers should also
double check receipts before leaving the store to be sure that the announced reductions have
been taken at the cash register. The receipts show only the final price -- the original price
and percentage of discount are not shown.
For further questions or to file a complaint, contact the Division of Consumer Affairs

at 301-217-7373.

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