BREAKING NEWS: Panda Mart has been ordered to close for 72 hours under a court injunction issued by Consumer Affairs Victoria. The urgent action follows the discovery of hundreds of illegal items on the shelves of its Preston and Cranbourne locations. The stores will remain shut from 9 AM on December 10, 2023, and are scheduled to reopen on December 13, 2023.
This critical development arises from inspections revealing serious safety violations, including hazardous toys and flammable products. Consumer Affairs Victoria Director Nicole Rich emphasized the dangers posed by items such as banned candles and toys equipped with unsecured button batteries, which can lead to choking hazards.
Last week’s inspections at both stores identified alarming issues, prompting immediate regulatory action. “It’s particularly disappointing that Panda Mart appears to have gone from meeting their obligations to restocking their shelves with products that pose a serious danger to the public,” Rich stated. The injunction will allow product safety inspectors to conduct thorough compliance checks, ensuring non-compliant items are removed.
The stakes are high for the families who frequent Panda Mart, drawn in by its extensive range of toys, homewares, sporting goods, and beauty products at low prices. With the stores often bustling with children and parents, the potential risks from unsafe products are particularly concerning.
In March 2023, Consumer Affairs Victoria issued a public warning about the Cranbourne store after thousands of products failed to meet mandatory safety standards. Inspections conducted earlier this year showed most items at the Preston store complied with Australian safety regulations. However, the latest findings indicate a troubling trend of non-compliance that poses a clear threat to consumer safety.
Rich reiterated the regulator’s stance, stating, “Every business is responsible for ensuring that the products they sell are safe. Being ignorant is no excuse.” The ongoing enforcement efforts underscore the critical focus on public safety, with authorities committed to protecting Victorians from dangerous products.
As the situation unfolds, consumers are urged to stay informed and cautious. This incident not only highlights the importance of product safety but also serves as a reminder for businesses to adhere strictly to regulatory standards.
Stay tuned as more updates are expected in the coming days regarding Panda Mart’s compliance and safety measures. This urgent matter will continue to unfold, impacting families and the retail landscape in Victoria. Share this story to keep others informed about this critical safety issue affecting local consumers.
