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Journal of Trading Standards, Online Edition - JoTS Online

Welcome to the Journal of Trading Standards online edition, JoTS Online. Browse through our latest Articles - including Analysis, Opinion Pieces, Features and a selection of articles from our acclaimed print journal.

Although many JoTS Online articles are open access (public), others are exclusive to CTSI Members - in which case, you'll need to login to access them. If you aren't a member of CTSI yet, you can join us here. And, if you'd like to contribute articles or suggest topics for us to cover, please email our Editorial Team.

Latest JoTS Online Articles : 

News Category Tags: Crime, Product Safety, Health and Safety, Counterfeit Goods, Retail, Animal Health and Welfare, Legal and Policy, Enforcement Practice, Product Recalls, Property and Housing, Automotive, Vapes, Business, CTSI Conference, CTSI Hero Awards.

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When is a consumer not a consumer?

Posted: 05 September 2022

OPINION: The language used to describe people as consumers, customers, citizens or patients shapes expectations, rights and public policy. This thought-provoking piece questions whether 'consumer' remains the most appropriate label.
 

Return to imperial ‘could cost millions’

Posted: 26 August 2022

UPDATES: CTSI warns that proposals to expand the use of imperial measurements could impose significant costs on local authorities, create confusion for businesses and consumers, and require extensive retraining and new equipment.
 

Voices from the Front Line

Posted: 25 August 2022

OPINION: Drawing on frontline experience in property and lettings enforcement, Emma Cooke reflects on the sector's challenges, the impact of recent reforms and the continuing need for effective consumer protection.
 

Trading Standards: A lifelong ally

Posted: 25 August 2022

ANALYSIS: Looking beyond individual cases, this feature examines how Trading Standards quietly protects consumers throughout their lives, preventing harm, supporting fair markets and delivering benefits that often go unnoticed.
 

Interview: Lord Jamie Lindsay

Posted: 25 August 2022

OPINION: Lord Jamie Lindsay discusses his long-standing commitment to consumer protection, the importance of maintaining consumer confidence and the role effective regulation plays in supporting both the economy and public trust.
 

CTSI concerned about vaping & CSE

Posted: 19 August 2022

UPDATES: CTSI has warned of emerging evidence linking underage vaping with child sexual exploitation, with reports that vapes are being used to groom children. The article explores the intelligence behind the warning and its implications for enforcement and safeguarding.
 

Surge in online travel complaints

Posted: 10 August 2022

UPDATES: Complaints about online travel bookings have risen sharply, prompting renewed advice for consumers and enforcement bodies. The article examines the trends behind the increase and the issues most commonly reported.
 

Consumer expert to chair Code review

Posted: 08 August 2022

UPDATES: A respected consumer protection specialist has been appointed to chair a Code review, bringing extensive regulatory experience to work examining future standards and governance arrangements.
 

TS sounds alarm on underage vaping

Posted: 04 August 2022

UPDATES: Trading Standards has sounded the alarm over underage vaping, highlighting growing concerns about youth access, retailer compliance and the measures needed to reduce illegal sales.
 

Cost-of-living insights revealed

Posted: 02 August 2022

UPDATES: New insights into the cost-of-living crisis reveal changing consumer pressures and purchasing behaviour, providing valuable context for Trading Standards professionals responding to emerging risks.
 

New guidance on delivery charges

Posted: 01 August 2022

UPDATES: Business Companion has published a new guide explaining traders' legal responsibilities for consumer deliveries, alongside practical advice on customer service and a self-assessment checklist to help businesses review their delivery practices.
 

Business Companion launches new guides

Posted: 24 July 2022

UPDATES: New Business Companion guidance helps businesses understand UKCA marking requirements following Brexit, explaining where the new product safety mark applies and how the transition from CE marking affects compliance.
 

The impact of Trading Standards

Posted: 06 July 2022

OPINION: Consumer confidence depends on effective enforcement, argues this commentary, which links rising levels of consumer detriment with the essential role Trading Standards plays in protecting legitimate businesses, supporting economic growth and maintaining trust in the marketplace.
 

The CoF's supporting role

Posted: 06 July 2022

ANALYSIS: The CTSI College of Fellows provides emergency welfare support, education grants, research funding and professional expertise to members and their families. This feature explores how the charity is helping the profession through financial assistance, career development and a growing network of support.
 

Changes to this year's Hajj bookings

Posted: 05 July 2022

UPDATES: As this year's Hajj pilgrimage approaches, guidance for Trading Standards and consumer protection professionals highlights booking scams, consumer rights and the practical steps businesses and pilgrims should take to reduce the risk of fraud and financial loss.
 

Shopkeeper fined for illicit tobacco stash

Posted: 28 June 2022

UPDATES: An Oldham shopkeeper is convicted after Trading Standards uncover illicit tobacco during an investigation. The article outlines the offences, penalties imposed and the continuing effort to disrupt the illegal tobacco market.
 

Look for the ‘ubuntu’ in you

Posted: 27 June 2022

OPINION: Drawing on the African concept of ubuntu, this reflective piece considers compassion, shared responsibility and leadership, encouraging Trading Standards professionals to recognise how individual actions shape colleagues, communities and the wider profession.
 

Family recognised for allergen work

Posted: 27 June 2022

UPDATES: The family of Megan Lee receive recognition for their work to improve allergen awareness following her death. The article reflects on their campaigning achievements and the lasting influence they have had on food safety and consumer protection.
 

Agents of change

Posted: 25 June 2022

ANALYSIS: Efforts to improve transparency in the property market are encouraging estate and letting agents to publish material information earlier in the sales process, reducing failed transactions and giving consumers greater confidence.
 

Cost-of-living pressure points

Posted: 25 June 2022

ANALYSIS: Rising prices, soaring energy bills and wider economic uncertainty are reshaping consumer behaviour and enforcement priorities. This analysis considers the implications of the cost-of-living crisis for trading standards.