Trinidad and Tobago is a twin-island nation located in the Caribbean. Its retail industry has a mix of local and international brands, offering a variety of options to consumers. In this article, we will explore the retail and consumer issues in Trinidad and Tobago.
Typical Opening Hours and Forms of Payment
The typical opening hours of shops in Trinidad and Tobago vary depending on the location and the type of shop. Most shops open from Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm, while some may remain open until 7 pm. On Sundays, most shops are closed, except for some supermarkets and malls that operate from 10 am to 6 pm.
In Trinidad and Tobago, cash is still the most widely used payment method. However, credit and debit cards are becoming increasingly popular. Most shops and supermarkets accept major credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard.
Major Supermarkets
The major supermarkets in Trinidad and Tobago include:
Massy Stores – the largest supermarket chain in Trinidad and Tobago, with over 50 locations across the country. It offers a wide range of products, including local and international brands.
Hi-Lo Food Stores – a subsidiary of the GraceKennedy Group, a Jamaican conglomerate. Hi-Lo offers a variety of products, including local and international brands.
Xtra Foods – a Trinidadian supermarket chain with eight locations. It offers a wide range of products, including groceries, electronics, and household items.
When it comes to prices, Massy Stores and Hi-Lo Food Stores are generally more expensive than Xtra Foods. However, the price difference may vary depending on the specific product.
Online Shopping
Online shopping in Trinidad and Tobago is becoming increasingly popular. The most popular online shopping websites include:
Massy Stores Online – Massy Stores’ online platform, where customers can purchase groceries and household items.
Shop Sweet T&T – an online store that offers a variety of products, including electronics, beauty products, and clothing.
Amazon – although not based in Trinidad and Tobago, Amazon is a popular online shopping platform for Trinidadian consumers.
Shops for Expats
There are several shops in Trinidad and Tobago that cater specifically to expats. These shops offer international products that may be difficult to find in local stores. Some of the most popular expat shops include:
The International Shop – located in Port of Spain, The International Shop offers a variety of products, including food, toiletries, and clothing, from countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Expats Traders Market – a Facebook group where expats in Trinidad and Tobago can buy and sell international products.
Consumer Rights
Consumers in Trinidad and Tobago are protected by the Consumer Affairs Division (CAD), which is a unit of the Ministry of Trade and Industry. The CAD is responsible for promoting and protecting the interests of consumers, ensuring that businesses comply with consumer protection laws, and resolving disputes between businesses and consumers.
Consumers can contact the CAD by phone at +1 (868) 623-2931 or by email at cad@tradeind.gov.tt. Additionally, consumers can file a complaint with the CAD using their online complaint form.
In conclusion, Trinidad and Tobago has a diverse retail sector, with a mix of local and international retailers. The major supermarkets in Trinidad and Tobago are PriceSmart, Massy Stores, and Hi-Lo Food Stores, and there are several shopping malls and markets throughout the country. Online shopping is gaining popularity in Trinidad and Tobago, with Amazon, eBay, and PriceSmart being the main websites for online shopping. There are also several shops in Trinidad and Tobago that cater specifically to expats. As a consumer in Trinidad and Tobago, you have several rights that are protected by law, and there are several consumer organizations that can provide you with information and support.