Could your gift voucher be an “oucher!”?

Gift vouchers are always a popular choice at Christmas; especially when you are unsure what to buy the ‘person who has everything’. A voucher so they can get what they want from their favourite retailer?


The website Vouchercodes.com says consumers have accessed 14.3 million vouchers from its site in 2009 year, compared to 9 million in 2008, 2.5 million in 2007 and 35,000 in 2004


Before you rush off to the retailer, consider this…many big name brands have gone into receivership this year alone. Ouch!
This means those customers who bought vouchers may have a hard time getting their money back. Ouch!


It also means that the administrators may change the terms and conditions of the voucher to make it more difficult to use; like, only using on full priced (not sale) items, or having total spend double that of the voucher. Ouch!


You may be smiling if you have been smart enough to use a credit card for the voucher purchase, because you might find some protection under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. However, even if you have paid by credit card The Office of Fair Trading says gift cards and vouchers are normally covered by Section 75; but, when a company goes into administration, he law may apply differently as each administration is different…so you may be in for some pain. Ouch!


Minimise your pain and loss
• Check retailer is solvent before you buy? How? Check for profit warnings and other distress signals in the press. It provides what little comfort there is in these modern times!
• Check with Which? Magazine (or other consumer press) for complaints about delivery…another good indication of a company able to fulfil its promises.
• Also research shows, only half of all vouchers are ever used so consider giving cold hard cash instead. I know it might see a bit thoughtless, but at least you both have the security of knowing it will be safe and will be used.