Almost two thirds of Irish adults with internet access have signed up to websites offering discount deals but more than a quarter have been left unhappy with their purchases, according to the National Consumer Agency (NCA) .
Research carried out on its behalf shows that 57 per cent of Irish adults have registered with an online discount site with 32 per cent going a step further and making a purchase.
However 28 per cent of those polled said they were unhappy with at least one purchase made with 19 per cent of those expressing concern that what they had bough was not as advertised. Goods and services which were of poor quality or had restrictive terms and conditions were also identified as problems.
Of the people who said they were dissatisfied with a purchase only 49 per cent said they had complained.
“While there are certainly some good offers out there, consumers should not to be swayed by the large discounts advertised and the pressure to sign up quickly in order to get the deal,” said NCA chief executive Ann Fitzgerald. “We would also advise consumers to take some time to consider if a deal really represents good value, read the terms and conditions, check the expiry date on the deal and to check with other companies offering similar products before signing up,” she said.
While one in four expressed concern about the quality of the deals, 87 per cent of all consumers who had bought something off an online discount site said they would buy through the same site again.
Women were found to be more likely to sign up to an online discount site but once signed up men were more likely to have bought from one.
“Considering the high figure reported for purchasing from the same site again and given the number of consumers who had problems it could indicate that consumers are willing to make allowances, given the large discounts on offer,” Ms Fitzgerald said. “Consumers should be aware that when they buy from an online discount site, unless clearly stated, there should be no difference in the quality of the product or service offered other than buying directly from the provider at full cost. “
