Daily Junction.mobi portalMyth: "You have to accept a credit note instead of a refund."
False. If you are entitled to a refund under the Consumer Rights Act, the retailer must give you your money back, not a credit note, unless you agree to accept one.
Myth: "You can return anything within 14 days for any reason."
Partly true, but only for online and distance sales. The Consumer Contracts Regulations give you 14 days to cancel most online purchases for any reason (change of mind), but this does not apply to in-store purchases. For in-store purchases, you only have the right to a refund if the goods are faulty.
Myth: "If it breaks, take it back to the manufacturer."
False. Your contract is with the retailer, and they are responsible for faults, not the manufacturer. You can use a manufacturer's warranty if you prefer, but you do not have to — your statutory rights against the retailer are often better.
Myth: "Sale items and clearance goods have no returns."
False. Sale items have the same statutory rights as full-price items. A shop can refuse to refund sale items if you simply change your mind, but if they are faulty, your rights are the same.
The Consumer Rights Act is a powerful tool, but enforcement depends on consumers knowing their rights and using them. Trading Standards and the CMA have limited resources, so many breaches go unchallenged. If you experience a problem, do not assume the retailer is right — check your rights, assert them clearly, and escalate if necessary.
Watch for changes to consumer law post-Brexit. The Consumer Rights Act is based partly on EU law, and while the UK government has committed to maintaining high standards, there is potential for divergence in future. Watch also for developments in digital content rights, as the law struggles to keep pace with new technologies such as NFTs, in-app purchases, and subscription models.
Finally, watch your own behaviour. Consumer rights are not a licence to abuse returns policies or make fraudulent claims. Retailers are cracking down on "serial returners" and wardrobing (buying clothes, wearing them once, and returning them). Use your rights fairly, and they will remain strong. Abuse them, and retailers will find ways to tighten the rules.