The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has written to 100 price comparison websites asking them to make sure they are providing clear information to consumers.
This follows a review published today by the OFT which suggested that some sites could do more to improve trust amongst the public.
The review says that in general, price comparison websites have represented a major step forward for consumers, enabling them to secure better value when buying goods and services, but that some people are missing out on potential savings because of a lack of trust. The review also says that the role of such sites is likely to become even more important in the future as online sales continue to grow and initiatives such as the government’s ‘midata’ project put more information in consumers’ hands.
As part of its review, the OFT conducted a ‘websweep’ of 55 price comparison sites which found that a number of sites could improve their privacy policies and their complaints and redress processes. It also identified scope for some sites to provide greater clarity about the way search results are presented, and clear identification of the business operating the website.
In order to help consumers make the best use of price comparison sites, and to assist those who do not currently use them, the OFT has joined forces with other government departments, sector regulators and consumer groups to develop six ‘top tips’. It has also released two new information films which can be viewed on the OFT’s YouTube channel.
The OFT’s 2007 market study into internet shopping estimated that if consumers used price comparison websites as effectively as they could they would stand to gain additional savings of £150 million to £240 million per year.
“Price comparison websites help busy shoppers find a good deal, but people might not realise that by being a bit savvier they can get even more out of these websites,” said Clive Maxwell, the OFT’s chief executive.
“Not all price comparison websites have the same standards and we are working closely with the Government and regulators to ensure that consumers are empowered to make informed choices. We hope this will improve trust and confidence among consumers who do not currently use price comparison websites, and who may be missing out on significant savings as a result.
“As companies release more data back to consumers under the Government’s ‘midata’ initiative, there will be new opportunities for people to get better value using price comparison sites, so it’s important that issues around consumer trust are tackled now.”