Monthly Archives: March 2012

Business, Consumer, Consumer Information, Consumer Services, Internet, Reviews, Services

Parcel Delivery Firm Backs Findings Of Online Shopping Survey

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Bolton-based online parcel delivery specialist Parcel2Go has given its backing to a recent internet shopping survey, which found that high delivery charges had led many consumers to abandon purchases.

A survey of 2,000 UK consumers, carried out by ecommerce specialist Econsultancy, found that nearly three-quarters of people (74 per cent) had abandoned an online purchase because they thought the charge for having their product delivered was too high.

Parcel2Go’s marketing director Richard Mercer says this is an issue that all online retailers should be aware of, and work towards addressing.

He said: “The fact that so many consumers have been in the position where they are all ready to go ahead with a purchase, and then have decided to abandon it at the last minute, should certainly start alarm bells ringing with firms. Excessive delivery charges are something that online shoppers are clearly not prepared to put up with.

“Of course the majority of online businesses are not able to go down the same route as the major players such as Amazon and Play.com and offer free parcel delivery as standard, but this survey highlights how important it is to get delivery charges right.”

Parcel2Go helps individuals and businesses arrange shipping of more than two million parcels to destinations in the UK and across the world every year. By partnering with some of the leading world couriercompanies such as FedEx, City Link and Parcelforce, Parcel2Go is able to offer its customers access to a huge range of competitively-priced domestic and international delivery services.

Mr Mercer added: “The internet has made it easier than ever for businesses to organise their parcel deliveries, and so by offering low-cost, reliable courier services with parcel tracking through their site, firms can increase the number of shoppers who complete purchases at the checkout.”

Via EPR Network
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Compare Mobile Plans Supports ACMA Plan for Clarity of Comms Industry Terminology

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Australian mobile users can look forward to less confusing mobile industry terminology if industry regulator Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) gets its way. The body has warned ISPs and mobile providers to clear up the various buzzwords they use such as ‘cap’ to help consumers enjoy more clarity of pricing plans.

ACMA is also targeting other industry terms in a bid to make consumers’ lives easier – the regulator wants to see a voluntary code of conduct in place to which ISPs will commit. Other industry terms are on the ACMA hitlist as it seeks to make the sector clearer and simpler for consumers.

‘Unlimited Plans’
Any companies which claim to offer ‘unlimited’ plans now need to clarify what they are supplying to subscribers. Many consumers remain confused about contractual details as small print often contains nuances about what is actually covered in their ‘unlimited’ contract, such as heavy charges for calling 1300 numbers.

ACMA wants all providers to remove the misleading word from promotional materials to help reassure consumers. In recent times some operators have taken steps to do this, including Vodafone removing ‘Infinite’ from plans and Amaysim including 1300 and 1800 numbers in Unlimited plans.

Sarah McDonald, spokesperson for Compare Mobile Plans, says: “We are really pleased to see ACMA taking this step, and it can only benefit consumers and the industry in general. Those providers which promise ‘Unlimited’ plans must deliver on that commitment or remove the term from their plans.”

Cap and Included Value
ACMA is also targeting misuse of the term ‘Cap’ in plans, unless providers are truly promoting plans which genuinely limit subscribers on what amounts they can spend on calls and data usage.

In its recent clarion call ACMA included a demand for providers to issue a ‘unit price’ for two-minute voice calls, unit prices per text and a standard cost for 1MB of data usage.

Flagfall
Visitors to Australia from outside the country regularly find themselves confused by the term ‘Flagfall’, which is linked to call connection charges – something which no longer exists in other western telecoms markets like the USA and Europe.

“There isn’t really any justification any longer for Australian ISPs to be charging for flagfall. This is another area where providers could help both the
industry and subscribers out by getting rid of it,” Sarah McDonald went on.

In recent times fledgling provider Amaysim took a stand and launched a range of no contract SIM only plans for Australian subscribers which don’t include any flagfall charges.

Included data
ACMA is also targeting included data contracts which can mislead consumers, in response to the high levels of smartphone penetration today enjoyed in Australia – the country is at 37% penetration right now.

“While ISPs and operators may find it easy to distinguish between ‘included data’ and ‘excess data’ plans, many consumers remain a bit baffled by them and need more clarity,” Sarah McDonald goes on. “Roaming charges is another area which consumers are still pretty puzzled by and they are fed up of getting charged huge sums simply for travelling – providers must address this.”

Comparing mobile phone plans
The variety of confusing industry terms around can make it hard to source and purchase the right subscription – but websites are here to help. Comparison specialists such as Compare Mobile Plans offer simple ways to calculate your needs and how much you want to spend on voice and data before signing up to a deal. The website carries all the latest offers from providers including Telstra, iPrimus, Westnet, Internode, TPG Internet and many more. Users can also compare the latest handsets and mobile devices on the site.

Via EPR Network
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Don’t Miss Out On Opportunities Thrown-Up By The Tablet Explosion, Urges Parcel2Go

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The number of people in the UK who own a tablet computer is rising rapidly, and online parcel delivery specialist Parcel2Go has called on companies of all sizes to make sure they don’t miss out on the wealth of opportunities available.

The market for tablets has been recognised as one that is significant and growing, with new product releases such as Apple’s third generation iPad helping to boost interest in the sector. Apple’s first iPad went on sale just over two years ago, and the company has sold around 55 million of the devices since then.

The latest version, which hit the shops earlier this month, had “a record weekend” according to the company and chief executive Tim Cook, who has said he expects tablets to outsell computers within three years.

Parcel2Go’s marketing director Richard Mercer said the fact that tablet computer ownership is spreading so rapidly, and that research has shown the average tablet owner spends more money shopping online other internet users, means businesses must act.

He said: “The convenience and ease of browsing and shopping using tablet computers has been recognised by consumers, and businesses must recognise the importance of having a strong online presence in order to take advantage of the situation.

“Parcel2Go helps a large number of companies to get their products out to customers with domestic and international parcel delivery firms. We know that customers have come to demand that businesses today not only offer an online shopping experience that is intuitive and enjoyable, but also one that allows them to have access to delivery services that are fast, reliable, inexpensive and will ensure that the product is in their hands in the shortest possible time.”

Via EPR Network
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Get 40% Off Laser Hair Removal!

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Leading cosmetic surgery provider The Harley Medical Group is currently running an excellent offer on selected laser hair removal treatments, which can see patients saving up to 40% on a range of packages. However, the offer is only available until midnight on Thursday 5 April 2012, so those interested are advised to book now!

Laser hair removal is one of the most popular non-surgical treatments in the UK and can be carried out on both men and women. It can be performed on many areas of the body and the Harley Medical Group’s offer includes some of its most popular packages.

Eight and four treatment packages for specified body areas have been included in the offer, as well as other multiple treatment packages. For instance, the eight treatment package for laser hair removal for the female chin was £600 and has been reduced to £450 for a limited time only. Similarly, laser hair removal for the full male back is now £1,250, down from £1,590.

In terms of multiple treatment packages, patients can save an astonishing amount – the female full body treatment was £4,225 and is now just £2,770. It includes four full laser hair removal treatments for the arms and legs, along with treatments for the bikini area, navel pubis and underarms.

“Our current offer on laser hair removal will only be available for the next couple of weeks, so those interested should act quickly to make the most of it,” said Lisa Littlehales of the Harley Medical Group.

“Anyone that would like to book a treatment at one of our nationwide clinics can find the current laser hair removal prices on our website, and can book via our online form, specifying which treatment they are interested in.”

To find out more about the treatments available, visit www.harleymedical.co.uk now.

Via EPR Network
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0800 Repair Stresses Importance Of Appliance Safety

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The UK’s leading appliance repair firm has urged homeowners and businesses to make sure that they take care of appliance maintenance issues as soon as they occur.

Chester-le-Street-based 0800 Repair, one of the largest professional appliance repair companies in Britain, has called on domestic appliance owners to always make sure they put safety first and deal with maintenance issues as soon as they crop up. The advice follows a number of recent incidents across the UK where domestic appliance faults have led to house fires.

While following fire safety advice such as not leaving appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines running overnight is important and simple to follow, some accidents are unavoidable. However, 0800 Repair has stressed the importance of taking steps to rectify known issues as soon as possible.

Paul Feek, Managing Director of 0800 Repair, said: “Every day our specialists visit homes across the country to deal with a huge range of domestic appliance repairs, from fridge repair jobs involving fan motor replacements to dealing with faulty dishwasher pumps. As a result of their experience, the most important piece of advice we would give to anyone, whatever the problem, is to get maintenance issues looked at as soon as possible.

“Even products made to the highest standards can develop faults and from a safety point of view it’s vital any problems are taken care of immediately. Anyone who is concerned that an appliance might be faulty is advised to organise for a professional technician to take a look.”

0800 Repair’s fully-qualified engineers carry out appliance maintenance work including dishwasher repairs, washing machine repairs and fridge repairs for homeowners and businesses across the UK. Engineers provide specific time slots, so customers don’t need to spend all day at home waiting for a visit, and what’s more, all work is backed by a no quibble guarantee.

Via EPR Network
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Help Spot and Avoid a Fake Mobile Phone for WCRD 2012

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On World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) 2012, consumers worldwide are reminded that they have the power to make the right choice and avoid fake or knock off mobile phones.

“People can inadvertently purchase a fake or sub-standard phone, through no fault of their own, by trying to find a cheaper price for a phone – especially on the internet,” said Michael Milligan, Secretary General of the Mobile Manufacturers Forum (MMF).

“Everyone wants to be able to buy a product at a good price. But unscrupulous suppliers are exploiting that desire for a bargain to sell products that are not what they claim, or that are just poor quality and perhaps even dangerous. To help consumers identify and avoid these fake or knock-off phones, genuine manufacturers have created the www.spotafakephone.comwebsite.”

Most fake phones are counterfeit copies of genuine handsets, which steal intellectual property such as designs, technologies and trademarks to deliberately deceive consumers. Fake phones are also produced without government approval, safety testing or certification and are sold illegally on the world’s black markets.

“The global black market for fake handsets has grown rapidly over the past few years and is estimated to be in excess of 200 million devices every year,” Mr Milligan said.

“With counterfeiters imitating all facets of a phones appearance, including labeling, design and packaging, it can be hard to spot whether a phone is fake or genuine, so the mobile industry developed this website to help consumers identify fakes and make the right choice.”

“Often it is the sub-standard components, low quality manufacturing and poor performance that impact on consumers after they have already purchased a fake, especially in the area of consumer safety, and usually the consumer has no recourse with the supplier.”

“Another important benefit of buying a genuine phone is that original manufacturers stand behind the quality of their own products and provide important product warranties to consumers should problems arise after purchase.” Mr Milligan said

Consumers can do their part in helping to identify, report and avoid fake or knock off phones by going to: www.spotafakephone.com.

Via EPR Network
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Lancaster CA. Portrait And Wedding Photographer

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Lancaster, CA. Photographer Dennis Walman from Walman Photography Attends National or International Conventions for the Last 31 Out of 32 Years.

For the last 32 years Dennis Walman from Walman Photography in Lancaster Ca. has attended either a national or international photography convention. The only time he has missed a photography convention is when is daughter was born in 1995.

“The photography field is always changing but now more than ever with the digital revolution. I think the quality of photography and the great selection of photography products are better than ever. I feel we as photographers need to keep up with this ever changing technology so we can offer our clients the best that is out there.”

Dennis Walman
Walman Photography

http://www.walmanphotography.com

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Peps Mattress Reviews – Mattress Technology & Certifications

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This is a review about Peps Mattresses, the technology used, the quality standards and products. The article also talks about the partnership with Restonic Mattress and the review of quality standards met by Peps. The Peps sleep solutions also meet the benchmark defined by Restonic Corporation, USA for its Restonic range of products. Peps Spine Guard Mattress is one of our special mattress product release in the market.

The technology is patented and uniquely delivered in its product range. Some of the features of the products include: individually pocketed inner springs that absorbs weight and compress independently, so that you will feel your partner’s movement a lot, less. The reinforcement in the middle helps reduce the back strain significantly. The restonic range of mattress includes the normal top range, euro top range and the pillow top range.

The Peps mattress is certified by Entomology Center Cambridge, under AATCC 147/30/1424 standards. The Peps range of products is crafted from materials and components of highest quality standards and certifications. The products are delivered with care to exceed the customer expectations. The mattress is internationally certified for no odor, no fungus, no dust mite & no bacteria.

The manufacturing facility is built in a 15 acre industrial campus in Coimbatore. The world class manufacturing facility comprises machineries from Germany, Sweden and USA. Peps is India’s only manufacturer of sleep systems that match exact quality and technology benchmarks of Restonic Corporation of USA. Peps’ unique expertise and insights of Indian consumer strengthen an already formidable partnership.

A brief review about the quality of materials used: the high carbon tempered steel wire is used to inter connect & form rigid, durable & yet flexible core. The ‘secure lock’ feature reduces motion transference and partner disturbance. The super edge feature binds the perimeter making it stronger and increasing the sleeping surface. The Belgian outer quilt & damask knitted ticking makes the first feel of great experience. The five zone sleep system makes provides special support to head, neck, shoulder, back and calf body areas. The peps range of mattresses are available at the exclusive mattress store – The Great Sleep Store.

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