Winter sales to begin Jan. 12
Participation in the sales period is optional, but retailers that take part are required to clearly display both original and discounted prices and comply with consumer protection rules banning misleading offers.
Consumer rights regulations will remain in force throughout the sales period, allowing shoppers to report defective goods, false pricing or unfair commercial practices to authorities.
Experts advise consumers to plan purchases in advance, compare prices and check return policies, particularly when shopping online, to ensure discounts are genuine and transactions secure.
Tips for smart and safe shopping during the winter sales 2026 period
Compare prices: Before making a purchase, compare prices across different physical stores or online platforms to confirm the actual benefit of the discount.
Check price labels: Retailers must clearly display both the original and the discounted price. Consumers should verify that the reduction is real and not misleading.
Be cautious with overly attractive deals: Offers that seem too good to be true, especially online, deserve extra scrutiny.
Shop from reliable sources: Choosing well-known stores or official platforms reduces the risk of fraud or low-quality products.
Review return policies: Carefully read the terms for returns or exchanges to avoid issues after completing a purchase.
Inspect products carefully: Check items upon delivery or before leaving the store to identify any damage or defects.
Practice online shopping safety: When shopping online, use secure payment methods and keep receipts or email confirmations for every transaction.
