From time to time, some services that fall within the council’s remit go under the radar, and anecdotally Trading Standards could be one of those.
But where would we be without such vital services?
Because the role of the Trading Standards Service is to promote and maintain a fair and safe trading environment for consumers and businesses.
They enforce and advise on a wide range of consumer laws relating to the sale and supply of goods and services.
And they are supported by a range of other agencies in delivering these services.
What do they cover?
Some of the areas that Trading Standards cover in their remit are consumer and business advice, animal health and welfare, doorstep crime, scams, loan sharks, illegal tobacco, age restricted sales and fake goods.
Other areas covered by Trading Standards are explosives storage, petroleum enforcement, food standards, minimum unit pricing of alcohol, and weights and measures.
And often due to the nature, scale and size of the areas covered, any issues arising in relation to these can cause a big strain on the departments resources.
More details about each of the areas that Wrexham’s Trading Standards cover can be found here.
Examples of activity and successes
There are many examples in recent times of local Trading Standards interventions which have been reported in collaboration with North Wales Police, but the standout stories mostly surround the closure of a number of premises in relation to the sale of illicit tobacco products, vapes and e-cigarettes in and around the centre of Wrexham, an issue which many towns and cities have experienced in recent years.
A word from the Executive Board
Councillor Hugh Jones, Lead Member for Strategic Planning & Public Protection said: – “the role that Trading Standards play is vitally important to ensuring a level playing field for both businesses and customers in Wrexham, whilst also never sitting still in an ever-changing world.
“Although sometimes there are services which slip under the radar more than others, the work which goes on behind the scenes is vast and incredible from a dedicated and highly skilled team of officers.
“So, whether it’s the latest doorstep scam criminals are trying, illegal tobacco sales causing harm to public health, or loan sharks causing misery to our most financially vulnerable in society and many more, then it’s the councils Trading Standards department who are responsible for delivering the right level of enforcement and direct action to challenge incidents in the county.
“I highly commend the work they do and would encourage anyone who needs advice or has queries or concerns relating to any matters within their remit to get in touch.”