2 weeks Ago By Youri Kemp Senior Business Reporter [email protected]
The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) is urging businesses to comply with the government’s consumer protection standards. Dr. Leo Rolle, executive director of the BCCEC, told Guardian Business by WhatsApp: “The BCCEC notes the comments of Randy Rolle [CPC executive chairman], relative to those businesses that may be in contravention of the consumer protection standards, and is deeply concerned with the same.
“We always encourage our members and other business owners to adhere to all governmental policies and regulations, just as we lobby for the government to enhance the ease of doing business, while reducing the cost of doing business for the community.” Rolle was responding to comments made during a CPC press conference on Monday, where it was revealed that a number of businesses were not putting “best by” labels on their packaging, and allowing consumers to buy expired produce, most notably baked goods. Rolle added: “We also note the government’s position that they will be enacting the letter of the law on those noncompliant businesses, and wonder exactly what that letter entails? We suggest there be requisite awareness and educational campaigns on these policies and procedures before, during, or after the exercise, especially for fledgling entrepreneurs who may not be knowledgeable of the same.
“Additionally, we recommend that these policies be published, routinely updated, and easily accessible to the business community. As with food handlers, perhaps there should be an annual review or refresher offered to ensure complete compliance with the standards as outlined. Finally, knowing the penalties and grace period for compliance, if any, would be helpful for those businesses that need to adjust accordingly.
” Rolle added: “While we believe in the adage that ‘ignorance of the law is no excuse’, we remain advocates for fair and equitable treatment of the business community and consumers alike. “To this end, we welcome the opportunity for collaboration with the CPC to ensure a robust public awareness and educational campaign, to ensure businesses are fully apprised of the regulations and requirements that govern industry practices. “Together, we can ensure a collaborative, rather than confrontational, outcome to the same.
” CPC Executive Chairman Randy Rolle said the CPC conducted inspections of over 14 food stores and groceries in the last week, in response to a significant number of consumer complaints. Alarmingly, nearly half of those groceries were found to have violated some form of consumer protection standard. “One major issue we discovered was the lack of clear labeling of baked goods and fruits regarding their best by dates,” said Rolle.
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