Buy With Confidence.

The Buy with Confidence Scheme was first launched in 1999, and now has over 40 local authorities participating, offering benefits to both consumers and businesses.  Cheshire East Trading Standards joined the Scheme in November 2011.  It is the largest scheme of its kind in the UK and is expanding with the logo becoming increasingly wide spread and recognised around the country.

Buy with Confidence is run independently by Trading Standards Services operating stringent vetting procedures.  In order to become a Buy With Confidence member, a business must first apply or be recommended to join the scheme and must then pass a set of tailored background checks. Membership of the scheme is not given lightly – amongst other checks, each applicant will have their complaints history reviewed and will receive a visit from Trading Standards. Good references are required from previous customers and applicants must agree to abide by the scheme's code of conduct, which requires them to follow the letter and spirit of the law. Criminal records disclosure may also be required in some circumstances.

Only if all the scheme requirements are met, will a business be granted membership, and their conduct will continue to be monitored thereafter. We cannot promise that Buy With Confidence members' work will be perfect every time, but you can expect any problems to be dealt with fairly by the business, and you can turn to Trading Standards for advice in the event of an unresolved issue.

The Scheme also aims to ensure that member businesses comply with relevant Consumer Protection legislation. Trading Standards  is committed to protecting local consumers and supporting reputable local businesses.

In the top right hand corner of this page is the logo to look out for. Members will carry this on their paperwork and vehicles.

More information about the Scheme for businesses and customers can be found on the Buy with Confidence website, where details of approved traders in your local area can also be found.