Buyer Beware
Have you done any online shopping recently?
The majority of people have, and that’s no surprise considering the long list of benefits shopping online has.
Online shopping is growing so fast that the global online shopping market size is predicted to hit 4 trillion in 2020!
The US alone is expected to have 300 million online shoppers in 2023. That's 91% of the entire country's population (pretty crazy if you think about it.)
However, shopping online isn’t always a pleasurable experience.
Believe it or not, many people are scammed out of authenticity even when shopping on some of the biggest and most trusted eCommerce sites like Amazon, eBay and Aliexpress.
Could you imagine purchasing an expensive light fixture from a well respected brand thinking it was the real deal, only to find out that it’s a fake (actually, maybe don’t think about that horrible scenario.)
Want to know the worst part? Some people might not even know that the product they received is a fake!
Let’s discuss further…
How to ensure you get the real deal
Buying a light fixture can be seen as an investment, the right light fixture can add value and improve the whole image of your home.
Because of this, it’s important to ensure you’re getting an authentic fixture and not some cheap knock off.
How to be sure the product you’re getting is authentic ? Well, It all comes down to the credibility of the store you’re buying from.
When buying on sites like Amazon and eBay, look at the seller's rating, read product reviews, and even contact the seller if you have any questions or concerns.
Same goes when buying from independently owned lighting stores, check the reviews and ensure credibility before purchasing.
Doing your research is the only way to limit your risk from the beginning when shopping online.
Authentic vs fake
Now don’t freak out if you’ve already bought expensive light fixtures, there are many ways to tell whether the fixture is authentic or not.
Here are some ways you can tell…
- Examine for markings: One of the easiest things to do is check the framework of the light fixture for the companies name or signatures incorporated into the original casting to help prove authenticity.
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Compare fixtures: Another thing you can do is compare your light fixture to others of the same type. For example, if your fixture has Victorian appeal, compare it to other fixtures from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Identification of antique light fixtures isn't an exact science, so comparisons with other similar fixtures is often the key to identification.
- Research the history: Did you move into a home with pre-existing light fixtures? If the fixture was an original that came with your real estate property, research the history of the house and its previous owners. Establishing the age of your home can give you a reliable estimate on the age of the fixture. If your home was built after the 1950s, the light fixture is probably not antique and is likely a reproduction. Most homeowners took valuable antique possessions with them when they relocated.
Final Thoughts
Thanks to the massive $1.2 trillion global counterfeit industry, marketplace counterfeits have made their way into even the biggest and most trusted eCommerce sites.
However, don’t let the thought of receiving a "fake" turn you away from shopping online.
Doing your shopping from the comfort of your own home or on-the-go definitely has its list of benefits.
What we are saying is to ensure you’re purchasing from a credible source.
Keep peace of mind knowing the beautiful lights in your home are authentic.
When you shop with us here at Concept Lighting, you can rest assured that you are getting authentic, quality merchandise, from reputable manufactures.
Buy with confidence that your items are original, made with the best materials, and meet all safety requirements (CSA, UL and cUL.)
For even more information on the amazing and unique ways you can light you home, be sure to contact us at your convenience. We look forward to serving your lighting needs!