Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
I recently purchased an item from a convenience store. I was charged $3.99 for the item. For my next purchased, which was made by a different clerk, I was charged $3.29 for the same item. Is this legal? I feel this store may be taking advantage of the community and overcharging and changing prices. I purchased a gallon of water priced $1.99. With no car it was convenient at time of purchase. I know convenience stores charge higher prices, but this is almost three times the reasonable price. Is there anything I can do to have the store investigated? I live in Florida.
Store owners can set their own price when it comes to selling their goods. Price limitations typically apply if the store owner schemes with other business owners in “fixing” the prices of goods when it provides them an unfair advantage in selling the product (price schemes). The price that is advertised on the shelf or listed on the product itself is the price the store is required to sell the product for. If the store decides to sell the product at a lower price than what is listed, it will be allowed so long as there is no state law that prevents them from doing so.
