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Waterford Chamber and The Enterprise Europe Network has issued a fresh warning to businesses to beware of the activities of the European City Guide (ECG), World Business Guide and other such marketing and business directories, which entice local businesses into unwittingly buying advertising space in business information directories.
Businesses are targeted through letters and emails, which give a first glance impression that entry into the directory or listing is free. However, the small print informs that businesses who sign and return the form, even if simply correcting or adding to the details provided, are committing themselves to paying fees as high as €1,000 per year for 3 years.
Unfortunately many people have mistakenly signed a contract which seems to promise free advertising and only to later be invoiced for a fee and in many cases being harassed for payment which they were not aware they had committed to. We would again urge businesses not to sign anything they feel be questionable and to make sure that all staff members are aware of these scams and do not return the form as a matter of course as this has been the case for many businesses.
Unfortunately there has been an increase in the enquiries we receive regarding these ‘Directories’, which have been operating for many years and are in operation in a number of countries. If you have signed up for such a Directory or have any queries regarding similar issues please contact us for advice on your particular case.
Waterford Chamber and the Enterprise Europe Network are working with our colleagues in Europe to lobby the Commission with regard to reform of this particular issue. For advice or information on this or any other European related matter please contact Michelle McHugh by emailing
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or calling 051 872639. |
