Legislative Decree No 206 of 6 September 2005, known as the Consumer Code, is a fundamental piece of legislation in Italy that protects consumer rights and establishes specific obligations for businesses.

The advice service on the application of the Consumer Code is designed to help businesses comply with the provisions of this legislation, ensuring that consumer rights are respected and that commercial practices are fair and transparent.

Objectives

1. Regulatory Compliance: To ensure that the company complies with the provisions of the Consumer Code, reducing the risk of sanctions.
2. Consumer Protection: To implement commercial practices that respect consumer rights and promote trust in the company.
3. Transparecy and Correction: Ensure that information provided to consumers is clear, complete and truthful.
4. Operational Efficiency: Optimising business processes to effectively manage consumer relations.

Modalities

1. Preliminary Assessement:
   • Assessment of Current Practices: Analysis of the company’s current business practices to identify areas of non-compliance with the Consumer Code.
   • Mapping of Relevant Norms: Identification of the specific norms of the Consumer Code applicable to the company.
2. Development of Policies and Procedures:
   • Drafting of Corporate Policies: Development of internal policies to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Consumer Code.
   • Complaint Handling Procedures: Implementation of procedures for the effective handling of consumer complaints.
3. Information and Transparency:
   • Review of Consumer Information: Review and update of information provided to consumers to ensure that it is complete, clear and accurate.
   • Contracts and Documentation: Review and drafting of contracts and company documentation in compliance with the Consumer Code.
4. Training and Awareness-raising:
   • Training Programmes: Design and implementation of training programmes for staff on the provisions of the Consumer Code and best business practices.
   • Awareness Raising Campaigns: Internal campaigns to raise staff awareness of the importance of protecting consumer rights.
5. Monitoring and Revision:
   • Periodic Audit: Conducting periodic audits to verify ongoing compliance with the Consumer Code and identify possible improvements.
   • Policy Update: Review and update company policies according to regulatory changes and industry best practices.

Benefits

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that the company complies with all provisions of the Consumer Code, reducing the risk of penalties and fines.
• Consumer Protection: Enhancing corporate reputation by protecting consumer rights and promoting ethical business practices.
• Transparency and Fairness: Increase the transparency and fairness of information provided to consumers, promoting brand trust..
• Operational Efficiency: Optimising business processes to effectively manage consumer relation.
• Risk Reduction: Minimise legal and reputational risks associated with non-compliant business practices.

Tools used

• Compliance Management Software: Tools for monitoring and managing compliance with the Consumer Code.
• Documentation: Procedures and records for managing consumer information.
• Training Platforms: Online tools and training materials for staff training and awareness-raising.
• Monitoring Dashboards: Tools to monitor compliance activities and verify the effectiveness of consumer protection policies.

Final Considerations

365TRUST’s advice service on the application of Legislative Decree No 206 of 6 September 2005 is essential for companies wishing to comply with Italian consumer protection regulations. Through targeted advice and the implementation of effective policies, procedures and security measures, companies can improve their business practices, protect consumer rights, and promote a corporate culture oriented towards transparency and fairness