This year’s winter sales are starting today and will continue until February 28^th. The traders are lowering their prices with up to 60% in their desire to attract more customers and to partly compensate the low Christmas shopping season. Even big brand, which have not offered discounts until now, will lower their prices in Athens.

The Greek Ministry of Development warned the citizens to be careful when purchasing, to research the market before buying and to keep their spending within their family budget. Also, they advise that customer loans should be taken only in extreme cases and that credit cards should be used moderately. The customers should examine the quality of the goods and should make sure that they can return or exchange them later on if needed – they should always makes sure they get a receipt. If there are any violations, customers can call 1520 (08:00am to 10:00 pm), everyday during the sales.

The traders are obliged to write out the before and after price and also not to mislead customers with big discounts only on selected products. The fines for violations will be between 1000 and 100 000 Euros. The fine will be applied administratively – needs to be paid first and then appealed in court.