29 August, 2016
In a recent media release, the Consumers Association of Singapore ("CASE") revealed that it had received 1664 complaints regarding the Beauty industry in 2015, a slight decrease from 1709 complaints the year before. Statistics from the past five years show that the two most common reasons for such complaints are the use of pressure sales tactics by beauty salons and the rendering of unsatisfactory services.
CASE is an appointed body that is able to enter into Voluntary Compliance Agreements ("VCAs") with businesses engaging in unfair practices, pursuant to section 8 of the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act (Cap 52A) (the "Act"). Where businesses fail to comply with the VCAs, recourse is available to consumers under the Act.
The CaseTrust accreditation scheme for spa and wellness businesses has also played a significant role in implementing measures for fair trading. Accredited businesses must provide a five-day cooling-off period and a 'no selling' policy in the treatment room, to deter the use of pressure sales tactics.
For further information, please contact:
Andy Leck, Principal, Baker & McKenzie.Wong & Leow
andy.leck@bakermckenzie.com
