Main Aim(s) of the Unit:

It has often been said that as far as the law is concerned, ‘ignorance is no excuse.’

For the Retailer, knowledge of legal issues as it affects business is definitely not an option. Rather, it is a duty and an obligation. And, whilst the Retailer is not expected to possess a level of knowledge anything like that of a legal professional, it is vitally important that he or she has command of certain key customer areas such as the Sale of Goods Act or, regarding staff, Health and Safety legislation. Though infrequently, the Retailer may suddenly be called upon to make a quick judgement in a number of ‘legal’ situations and it is crucial that such judgements are made confidently and correctly. The aim of this unit is to cover these areas in sufficient depth for the retailer to handle such situations as may arise with sufficient knowledge, command and confidence.

Main Topics of Study:

• The Retail trade and its responsibility towards the law.
• Development of the law concerning retailing.
• Consumer law and consumer protection.
• Employee legislation.
• Regulatory bodies and their policies.
  

Learning Outcomes for the Unit

At the end of this Unit, students will be able to:

1. Understand and appreciate the Retailer’s responsibility towards the law
2. Describe and explain the key features of consumer law.
3. Describe and explain the key features of employee legislation.
4. Discuss the role of regulatory bodies and their effect(s) upon retail.
5. Communicate effectively by oral and written means.

Learning and teaching  methods/strategies used to enable the achievement of learning outcomes:

Weekly lectures will be used to deliver theoretical material and build up the framework of the areas of study. The seminars will use student-centred learning techniques to build upon lecture material and examine topics in more detail. Students will be expected to lead seminars on appointed topics. Case studies will be used to illustrate material and apply theory to the practical arena.

Assessment methods which enable student to demonstrate the learning outcomes for the Unit:

Examination: 3 hours duration

Indicative Reading for this Unit:

Main Text:
Thomas, B (2003) Law for Retailers Cirencester Management Books.

Alternative Texts and Further Reading:
Cox, R and Brittain, P, (2004) Retailing: An Introduction (Ch 27) FT/Prentice Hall.

Guideline for Teaching and Learning Time (10 hrs per credit)

50 hours Lectures / Seminars / Tutorials / Workshops:
Tutorial support includes feedback on assignments and may vary by college according to local needs and wishes.

50 hours Directed learning:
Advance reading and preparation / Class preparation / Background reading / Group study / Portfolio / Diary etc

100 hours Self managed learning:
Working through the course text and completing assignments as required will take up the bulk of the learning time.  In addition students are expected to engage with the tutor and other students and to undertake further reading using the web and/or libraries.