Hintaetiketti

Hintaetiketti refers to the set of norms and practices regarding how prices are presented and communicated to customers in Finnish commerce. It encompasses honesty, transparency, and fairness in price labeling, price changes, discounts, and promotional messaging. The concept applies to both physical stores and online shops, and it covers how the final price is calculated and disclosed to the consumer.

Core principles include clear price labeling with the currency, visible unit prices, and unambiguous information about taxes and any mandatory fees. Price reductions should be shown transparently, typically by displaying both the original price and the sale price, and promotional terms should be easy to understand and valid for the stated period. Prices should be consistent across channels to avoid confusion or bait-and-switch practices. Any additional charges, such as shipping or handling, should be disclosed before the purchase.

In practice, hintaetiketti guides retailer practices such as signage design, web catalog presentation, and staff communication. It promotes upfront quotes for services, clear terms of sale, and fair handling of refunds and returns. It also emphasizes respectful treatment of customers and avoidance of pressure or misleading tactics when discussing price or discounts.

Regulatory context: in Finland, consumer protection authorities advise and enforce transparent pricing to prevent deceptive or misleading price information. Companies that fail to follow price etiquette risk complaints, penalties, or reputational harm.