The Minnesota State Fair is a prime location for businesses to showcase their products and ideas.  The Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota (BBB) is offering tips for consumers who are considering making purchases at this year’s events.

“While state and county fairs are a great place for businesses to reach a large number of people to promote their goods and services, there are some things that consumers should keep in mind to make the most of their money and avoid problems,” said Bert Hubbell, Better Business Bureau president.

The Better Business Bureau offers these tips to help consumers make wise purchasing decisions at summer fairs:

* Prior to making a purchase, get the company’s refund and exchange policy in writing, if possible.

* Obtain the company’s physical location and telephone number, in case you need to return or exchange an item after the event.

* As with any purchase, it makes sense to comparison shop.  Keep in mind, however, that the least expensive item may not always be the best value.  If you are making a large purchase, don’t be afraid to leave the fairgrounds to do some research.  It may save you money in the long run.

* Don’t be pressured to buy.  After the demonstration or sales pitch, walk away from the sales person to give yourself some time to think about the purchase.  If you take time away from the pressure, it will help you to clearly consider whether or not the item is necessary and a good deal.

* Ask the vendor if a sale price will be honored after the fair – if so, you will not feel pressured to purchase the item “on the spot.”

* It’s important to note that the Federal Trade Commission’s “cooling-off rule,” which normally allows consumers three days to cancel a purchase, does not apply to the following purchases at fairs: purchases under $25; goods or services not primarily intended for personal, family, or household purposes; insurance, securities, or real estate; motor vehicles; and arts and crafts.

* If you are making a purchase where the “cooling-off rule” does apply, and you need to cancel a sale, sign and date a copy of the company’s cancellation form, which you should obtain upon purchase of the item.  If you mail the form back to the company,

* Be sure it is post-marked before midnight of the third business day (Saturdays, Sundays and federal holidays are not considered business days) after which you made the purchase.  Otherwise, bring the form in-person to the company within three days of the date you made the purchase.

* Check out the company’s reliability report with the Better Business Bureau at www.thefirstbbb.org, or call 651-699-1111 or toll-free at 1-800-646-6222, prior to purchase.

The Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota is a private, non-profit organization providing services to consumers and businesses.  The focus of the Bureau’s activity is to promote an ethical marketplace by encouraging honest advertising and selling practices, and offering dispute resolution.  For more information on the Better Business Bureau, visit the Bureau’s Web site at www.mnd.thefirstbbb.org or call 651-699-1111, toll-free 800-646-6222.