Note: This advice is given by the CAP Executive about non-broadcast advertising. It does not constitute legal advice. It does not bind CAP, CAP advisory panels or the Advertising Standards Authority.
Code rules 3.17 - 3.22 refer to price statements. CAP has published multiple articles which deal with specific types of price statements and pricing in specific sectors.
Price statements
Pricing: general discusses basic pricing issues such as ensuring prices match the product shown and the use of “from” and “up to” claims.
Recommended retail prices outlines how to use RRP claims in a compliant way, including guidance on appropriate substantiation.
The Lowest price claims and promises article outlines key points from the formal Lowest Price Claims and Promises Advertising Guidance.
Promotional savings claims discusses the requirements around using reference prices and making saving claims.
Comparisons: general touches on general price comparisons in the context of comparisons with competitors. This includes claims like “cheapest on the market”, or “we are cheaper than Y”.
Basket of goods gives guidance on basket of good price comparisons, which compare the price of specific basket of goods in one store to another. .
Compulsory costs and charges
There are several articles that cover claims related to compulsory costs and charges. Please see the relevant guidance below for more details.
Sector specific price claims
In addition to the general pricing guidance, there are a number of sectors that face specific challenges when stating prices, and there are several articles which relate specifically to these sectors. Please see the relevant guidance below for more details.
Compulsory costs and charges: letting agents
Compulsory costs and charges: telecommunications
Marketers should also consider the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) Guidance For Traders on Pricing Practices when making saving claims. Discount and reference pricing principles: selling mattresses online may also be of relevance when considering reference pricing.