Comfort and curatorship increase demand for signature clubs – 03/28/2023 – Maria Inês Dolci

In the past, there was practically only subscription to newspapers, magazines and books. Then cable TV and audio and video streaming. Currently, it is possible to sign practically everything: automobile, wine, beer, cachaça, coffee, barbecue meat, cake, clothes, pet items, collectibles, physical exercises and games, among others. What is the main benefit? By paying the monthly fee, receive at home products and services of interest, defined by specialists, with comfort and curation.

The selection of items related to the subscription is made by an expert in that area – the curator. In this way, a coffee club subscriber, for example, will receive not only the best known products but also novelties that he may like.

I did a quick survey with friends who subscribed to these clubs. In their assessment, prices compensate; there are always customized products, payment is monthly and without bureaucracy and delivery takes place on the same day each month. Here’s a tip: only subscribe to clubs that are in line with your consumer profile and if the products are suitable for your needs.

Membership in this type of club has grown steadily in recent years. In 2022, it is estimated that revenues from this segment in Brazil will total R$ 1 billion. Still far from the more than US$ 10 billion per year in the North American market, that is, the equivalent of more than R$ 50 billion. During the coronavirus pandemic, social distancing has accelerated the growth of these clubs.

And how is this consumption relationship in legal terms? It is governed by the Consumer Defense Code, as what changes are the payment method, selection and delivery of products, at a pre-established frequency in the contract. But the subscriber is a consumer and must have his rights respected.

That is, the subscriber club must comply with the agreed delivery frequency and take products and services to the consumer in accordance with what was established in the contract. Anyone who feels aggrieved should go to the nearest Procon unit or to the Special Court (in cases where the maximum amount is 40 minimum wages, currently R$ 52,800.00). For values ​​up to 20 minimum wages (R$ 26,400.00), there is no obligation to be represented by a lawyer.

Before signing, care is the same as recommended for online shopping: research prices and information on possible consumer complaints against that club. It is also worth contacting someone you know who participates in the same group of subscribers.

In addition, it is critical that consumers avoid subscribing to more clubs than their income allows. Individually, the amounts may not affect the monthly budget, but the important thing is to add up all expenses before making a new financial commitment.

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