Consumers should be clearly informed about any applicable service charges before placing their order, the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) has said.
The Authority said that any applicable service charges should be clearly and visibly indicated on the menu or price list made available to the consumer before placing the order. This way, the consumer will be aware of the applicable charges in advance and will be able to make an informed decision.
The MCCAA emphasised that the consumer should not first become aware of the service charge when receiving the bill. ”Information on prices, including any mandatory additional charges, should be provided in a clear and transparent manner before the consumer places the order.”
The Authority therefore urged restaurants and other catering establishments ”to review their menus and pricing information and ensure that any service charge is clearly communicated to consumers before they place their order.”
MCCAA said that ”consumers are encouraged to check the menu and applicable charges before ordering. Anyone who believes that a service charge has been applied without being adequately informed in advance may contact the MCCAA (mccaa.org.mt) and provide the relevant details and documentation, including, where available, a copy of the menu and receipt.”
The MCCAA concluded by saying that it will continue to monitor market practices and take the necessary action in accordance with applicable consumer protection legislation.?
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