It’s not just spas or waxing and nail salons,
here’s what you should consider before
signing up for that gym membership or
car grooming package. By RACHEL XIE
There are two camps here. Seah Seng
Choon, executive director of the
Consumers Association of Singapore
(CASE) says you shouldn’t pay
upfront. While packages may save you
money, paying per use safeguards your
interests and minimises financial risk.
However, Stella Yfantidis, a committee
member of the Spa & Wellness Association
Singapore, says, “If a customer checks that
a vendor is reliable, there’s no reason not to
take advantage of a good deal.”
BUYER BEWARE It also depends on your risk appetite.
Obviously, you’re taking a bigger risk
by paying upfront for anything, as you
also risk losing more if the vendor closes
down. So if you insist on getting a
package as it’s cheaper than paying for
individual sessions, here’s what you can
do to safeguard your interests.
Read the terms and conditions to
ensure you can get a refund should you
decide to terminate your package due
to a medical condition or allergies.
“Consumers should pay extra attention
to refund policies, termination rights
and cooling-off periods,” says Seng
Choon. “If you find that the treatment
doesn’t suit you for medical reasons
like a skin allergy, get your doctor
to confirm it. Then see if you can get
a refund.”
Always ask questions. Stella says,
“If a business doesn’t have customer
protection measures like refunds,
don’t sign up for a package there.”
Check if your vendor is accredited
by Casetrust (www.casetrust.org.sg).
All 22 spas currently accredited by
Casetrust are committed to a five-day
cooling-off period.
Just say no. Don’t succumb to
forceful or aggressive sales tactics.
