OFT launches the Good Trader Scheme

The Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading is inviting businesses within the motor trade to join the newly formed Good Trader Scheme which aims to support legitimate businesses and to protect the residents of the Isle of Man from unscrupulous traders.

The aim of the Scheme is to promote and support reliable tradesmen and businesses on the Island who produce good quality work, whilst in turn improving customer service.

The Scheme which will be formally launched to consumers in Spring 2010, will put consumers in touch with approved traders who have agreed to provide a trustworthy, high standard of customer service. Members of the motor trade will receive a letter shortly advising them of the Scheme and inviting them to join. If any motor trader does receive a letter and is interested in joining they can find further details on the Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading website www.gov.im/oft or by telephoning the Office on 686520.

Chairman of the OFT Mr Bill Henderson speaking about the Scheme said, “By allowing consumers to easily identify those businesses who aim to treat their customers fairly, consumers will be better informed and better able to make decisions about who they choose to buy and have servicing done by. Second hand car sales and vehicle servicing and repair are currently the third most complained about area by consumers and I am determined to improve the service that the motor trader offers consumers.

This is a real opportunity for motor traders on the Island to prove that they provide good quality services. We know that that there are many motors traders who do a really good job and others who can improve their service with advice from the Scheme. Consumers can be assured however that we will not tolerate poor workmanship or service and will actively pursue complaints from consumers if they arise ”