JD Sports Fashion PLC fined for display of misleading prices

J D Sports Fashion PLC, was yesterday fined a total of £250 and £240 court costs, at Bangor Magistrates' Court.

The company pleaded guilty to one offence under the Consumer Protection From Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 of giving a misleading price indication to consumers in its Bangor sports store.

The case, brought by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment's Trading Standards Service (TSS), followed a consumer complaint that alleged J D Sports Fashion PLC, were falsely claiming savings of £40 on NIKE Air Panel Suits. The clothing bore labels that stated, 'Was £89.99, Now £49.99'. The TSS investigation discovered that the clothing had never been on sale at the higher price.

Trading Standards Investigating Officer, Declan Brown, said: "When using price comparisons during sales or other promotions, traders must base savings on genuine previous prices. Retailers making price comparisons should ensure that they are fair, meaningful and do not mislead consumers.

"The Trading Standards Service will ensure that the necessary enforcement action will be taken against traders that are found to be engaging in such misleading practices."

Consumers who suspect they have been misled by a trader's claim of a price reduction should report it to Consumerline on 0845 600 6262 or 028 9025 3900 or alternatively, log on to www.consumerline.org.

Notes to editors:

1. Under the Consumer Protection From Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 it is a criminal offence to make misleading statements as to the price of products.
2. The Consumer Protection form Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 is enforced by DETI's Trading Standards Service.
3. All media enquiries to DETI Press Office: Tel. 028 9052 9297. Outside office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.