FAQ
Answers to the most frequently asked questions.
How was the DS hub developed?
Following the success of the Sale of Goods Act (SOGA) hub the DS hub was developed in conjunction with a wide range of retailers and trade associations.
More information on the development process is available on the OFT 2010-11 Campaigns page.
Is DS hub available in any other languages?
The DS hub is currently only available in English. If you would like to translate any of the materials you can use the downloadable versions to do this. We recommend the in-design versions for this purpose.
Does consumer law apply to the rights of retailers in their dealings with manufacturers and wholesalers? Is it the same as the situation between retailers and their customers?
The contract law that applies between retailers and manufacturers/wholesalers is not the same as the contract law that applies between retailers and their customers.
The Distance Selling Regulations (DSRs) provide protection for customers (consumers) - the same rights do not apply to a business buying goods or services from another business.
This is true of consumer protection law generally, for example Sale of Goods Act, Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations, and Doorstep Selling Regulations. Businesses are expected to be able to negotiate their own contracts to give them suitable protection and or remedies in case of a breach of contract.
Are there any other sources of information I can access?
The Office of Fair Trading
www.oft.gov.uk contains extensive information about different trading laws and how they affect businesses.
The Department Business, Innovation and Skills
See www.bis.gov.uk for comprehensive background information and guidance on all aspects of running a business.
Trading Standards
Advice on the law, local information and details of your nearest Trading Standards office can be found at www.tradingstandards.gov.uk
Business Link
An independent body funded by the BIS. Visit www.businesslink.gov.uk for guides to the Sale of Goods Act, consumer credit and more about fair trading and trade descriptions. It has useful pointers for creating online shops and web marketing.
How will the changes to the CRD coming out of the Commission at the moment impact this guidance?
The CRD will replace the Distance Selling Directive among other consumer directives and is still being negotiated at European level. Agreement has not been reached and it is unlikely that this will be soon therefore implementation is some considerable way off.
These timings will not impact on the launch of the DSRs hub we will overhaul the hub's content when the CRD is eventually in force.
