The Kansas State Fair is one of our state’s fun traditions that goes all the way back to 1901. Attracting around 335,000 people each year, it’s the largest event in the state. And it’s coming right up: Sept. 7 through Sept. 16. This year’s Fair, as always at the Kansas State Fairgrounds in Hutchinson, promises the usual array of razzle-dazzle delights, plus a few new ones.
But because it does attract so many attendees, there is also the chance that at least a few of the exhibitors with wares for sale are out to bamboozle the razzle-dazzed visitors. Accordingly, your Better Business Bureau offers some suggestions for those who plan to attend this entertaining event.
The savvy booth-hopper
As consumers weave their way through hundreds of commercial exhibitors, here are some tips for making the most of the experience:
• Remember: The least expensive item is not always the best deal. Everyone wants to save money but there is no real savings if an item’s quality is so low that it doesn’t perform adequately. Comparison shopping, not just for price but also for quality, pays off. If possible, before you attend the fair do some research into products you’re in the market for and that you think may be for sale there.
• Take your time in making a decision to buy. There will be items for sale that you may not have considered before attending and may not have researched. Spur-of-the-moment purchases can be regretted later. Don’t fall prey to high-pressure sales tactics, sometimes a specialty at such events as the Fair. Consider strolling around after a sales encounter. Check with your companions and get their opinion. There is no need to rush into a purchase. In fact, check to see if the price is still good after the Fair and if it is, wait a few days to see if your interest sticks around for the item.
• Ask questions about the business. How long have they been around? Where are they located? No address? No phone? That sounds fishy. Don’t get hooked.
• Get warrantees and exchange policies in writing. Talk is cheap. Get it on paper or walk away from the deal. There’s a reason they may not want to do that for you.
• Finally, and this is important, check out the business at bbb.org. Read their BBB Business Profile and customer reviews. You can do it on the spot if you have your smart phone with you. (And while you’re at it, do a search for the business along with words like “complaint” and “review,” to find out if there are other postings online by unhappy customers.)
A solution for “Buyer’s Remorse”
If you change your mind about a purchase, there’s an FTC rule for that. It’s the “Cooling-Off Rule.” Here are some of the terms:
• You have 3 business days to change your mind and get your cancellation notice either postmarked or hand-delivered to the business.
• This applies to State Fair purchases. They should be for items or services that are for personal, family or household use. Purchase above $25 are covered.
• Arts and crafts purchases are not covered.
• You don’t have to give a reason for changing your mind.
• You should have been given a cancellation form at the time of purchase but if not, just write a cancellation letter.
• More details available at ag.ks.gov.
So whoop it up at the Fair’s midway. Enjoy the exhibits. But when it comes to buying products or services, keep a cool head and be sure you’re getting the bargain you hope for. If you more questions about your Fair purchases, contact your Better Business Bureau at (800) 856-2417, or visit our website at bbb.org.
