A merchant that advertises an item on sale must have enough stock to meet demand.

Required note in advertisements

If quantities are restricted, the merchant must state that in their advertising. If they have very limited stock, the advertising must state the exact quantity that is available. In such a case, notes such as “limited quantities” or “while stocks lasts” are not precise enough.

Out of stock situations

If the merchant has not specified the quantity of items in stock and the advertised book, CD or film is out of stock when you go to the store during the sales period, you can request that the merchant offers a similar item sold at the same or at a superior price and sells it to you at the advertised sale price. Some merchants will offer a deferred rebate coupon that will allow you to purchase the item later while still benefiting from the sale price.

If the merchant refuses to compensate you, you can file a complaint with the Office de la protection du consommateur. The Contact us page provides the ways to reach us.