CHICAGO,
IL – February 12, 2013 – Chocolates and flowers are associated with Valentine’s
Day and it is important for consumers to make educated buying decisions when
shopping for their special someone this year. The Better Business Bureau serving
Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) cautions those looking to send flowers to
be careful when selecting a florist.
“It is
especially important on Valentine’s Day to make sure that the florist you
choose will process your order accurately and in a timely manner,” said Steve
J. Bernas, president & CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois.
“Over the past 12 months people contacting the BBB and specifically inquiring
about florists have increased 13%. More and more people are checking with the
BBB before purchasing to ensure that there will not heartbreak this holiday.”
Pay careful attention to the options offered such as size of
arrangement, color of flowers, color of vase, delivery in a box or vase, and
inclusion of an enclosure or gift card. Note that all the options mentioned may
not be available on all sites or may involve additional charges. While you
think you're ordering from a local florist, you may actually be on the phone
with someone hundreds or thousands of miles away.
The BBB
offers the following advice for safe and successful shopping for Valentine’s
Day:
·
Do your homework. Before
ordering flowers, chocolates or any other gifts for Valentine’s Day check out
the company’s Business Review at www.bbb.org
in order to help prevent disappointment with the product or customer service.
·
Allow
time for shipping. Check with the retailer or check the web site to
make sure that you have allowed enough time for delivery by your specified
date. Make sure that this date is specified clearly and guaranteed when you
order.
·
Be wary
of any email received from an unknown sender. Do not open any
unsolicited email and do not click on any links provided. Fake e-cards coming
from scammers/hackers may send you an infected card or send you to a link that
compromises your computer’s safety.
For more information on shopping with companies you can trust, visit www.bbb.org
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As a private, non-profit
organization, the purpose of the Better Business Bureau is to promote an
ethical marketplace. BBBs help resolve buyer/seller complaints by means of
conciliation, mediation and arbitration. BBBs also review advertising claims,
online business practices and charitable organizations. BBBs develop and issue
reports on businesses and nonprofit organizations and encourage people to check
out a company or charity before making a purchase or donation.
