CHARLOTTE, N.C. — More than 20 stores across North Carolina were fined by the state for excessive price scanning errors.
According to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, some of the stores were located in Surry, Union, Wake and Watauga counties. In total, 22 stores were fined for errors, including the Walmart on Young Street in Indian Trail. Officials said an initial inspection in August found a 4% error rate based on four overcharges in a 100-item lot. The store passed inspection in November and paid $2,700 in fines.
"Our Standards Division inspectors work to protect consumers by comparing the price on the shelf and the price at the register to be sure they match," Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said. "Stores have a responsibility to make sure their pricing is accurate, and most stores pass inspection. Ones with errors face fines until they come into compliance."
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The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services conducts periodic, unannounced inspections of price-scanning systems to ensure accuracy. There could be penalties involved if a store fails a follow-up inspection.
Consumers who would like to file a complaint about scanner errors they encounter can call the Standards Division at 984-236-4750.
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