Price List: Everything You Need to Know About Creation, Use, and Legal Aspects

A price list is a document that lists the products or services offered by a company along with their prices. It helps clients and partners quickly obtain information about available products and services, as well as their prices and terms.

Price lists assist companies and clients in simplifying interactions, making the process of selecting and purchasing products or services transparent and convenient.

Main Functions of a Price List:

1. Informing Clients: The price list gives clients an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the range of products or services and evaluate their cost.
2. Simplifying the Ordering Process: Clients can choose the desired product or service and find out its price without needing to ask additional questions.
3. Marketing Tool: The price list can be used to promote special offers, discounts, or exclusive promotions.

Types of Price Lists:

1. Printed Price Lists: Hard copies that can be displayed in the office or distributed to clients.
2. Electronic Price Lists: PDF or Excel formats that can be sent via email or posted on a website.
3. Interactive Online Price Lists: Integrated into websites, allowing clients to see current prices and product availability in real time.

Structure of a Price List:

• Header: Company name, contact information, logo.
• Table of Services/Products: Name, description, price, discounts.
• Additional Information: Delivery and payment terms, promotions, and discounts.

Features of Filling Out a Price List

Filling out a price list depends on the type of business and target audience, but general recommendations include:

1. Document Header:
   • Include the company name, logo, and contact information (phone, email, website).
   • Indicate the last update date of the price list.
2. Structure and Formatting:
   • Divide the price list into categories or sections so clients can easily find the needed products or services.
   • Use a table with clear columns: Product/Service Name, Description, Unit of Measure, Price, Discounts/Promotions (if any), Notes.
   • Ensure the font is easy to read, and highlight important elements (e.g., in bold).
3. Description of Products/Services:
   • Provide concise but informative descriptions so that clients understand what they are purchasing.
   • Add details on characteristics, sizes, materials, or other features.
4. Prices:
   • State prices clearly and without ambiguity.
   • Indicate the currency (e.g., CHF, USD, EUR) if possible.
5. Promotions and Discounts:
   • Clearly state the terms of any promotions or discounts, including their validity period and restrictions.
6. Notes and Conditions:
   • If there are special terms of sale or delivery, mention them in a separate column or section.
   • Include information on payment methods and return policies if they are important for your business.
7. Review and Update:
   • Proofread the document for errors and discrepancies before publication.
   • Regularly update the price list to keep prices and terms current.

Price List for the Beauty Industry

Filling out a price list for the beauty industry has its own specifics, as it includes a wide range of services and products. Here are recommendations for creating a price list for this sector:

1. Document Header:
   • Include the salon or studio name, logo, contact details (phone, email, address, social media).
   • Optionally add a brief mission statement or slogan to create a positive impression.
2. Category Division:
   • Divide the price list into service categories: hairdressing services, cosmetic procedures, manicure and pedicure, massage, skincare, makeup, etc.
   • Highlight subcategories within each section (e.g., hair coloring, styling, and haircuts).
3. Table Structure:
   • Use a structured table with columns:
     • Service Name (e.g., Women’s haircut)
     • Description (features of the procedure: hair length, technique type)
     • Duration (time required to complete the service)
     • Price (with currency)
     • Notes (additional conditions, such as special promotions)
4. Promotions and Bonuses:
   • List current promotions: discounts for first visits, loyalty programs, offers for regular clients.
   • Add information on service bundles and their prices (e.g., “beauty day package”).
5. Terms and Notes:
   • Outline cancellation and rescheduling policies if they are important.
   • Mention any additional charges (e.g., if more materials or time are needed).
6. Updating and Visual Appeal:
   • Use pleasant fonts and design elements to make the price list visually appealing.
   • Regularly update it to reflect current prices and new services.

Creating such a price list helps clients easily navigate the services and choose the appropriate procedures.

Legal Aspects of a Price List

A price list has important legal aspects, especially if it is used as an official document to inform clients about the cost of services or products. Below are the main legal aspects of a price list:

1. Public Offer:
   • A price list may be considered a public offer (an offer) if it clearly states the conditions for providing products or services and the company is ready to fulfill its obligations at the stated prices.
   • If the price list is not a public offer, this should be specified, for example, by adding the phrase: “This price list is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a public offer.”
2. Accuracy and Relevance:
   • It is legally significant that the price list is current and reflects real prices at the time of sale, as price discrepancies may lead to client claims.
   • The price list should include its update or publication date to avoid misunderstandings.
3. Price Change Conditions:
   • If the company reserves the right to change prices, this should be reflected in the price list or in a general agreement. For instance, you can add the phrase: “The company reserves the right to change prices without prior notice.”
4. Additional Expenses:
   • The price list should clearly indicate any additional expenses, such as taxes, delivery, packaging, or other charges, to avoid legal issues and complaints about “hidden” fees.
5. Discounts and Promotions:
   • If the price list includes discounts or promotions, it is legally important to outline the conditions for obtaining them, including validity periods and possible restrictions.
   • Failure to meet the conditions of the promotion may be considered a violation of consumer rights.
6. Compliance with Consumer Protection Laws:
   • The price list must comply with consumer protection laws, particularly being honest and accurate. Misrepresented prices, missing essential transaction conditions, or hidden charges can result in penalties.
7. Legal Liability for Inaccuracies:
   • If the company lists incorrect or invalid data in the price list, it may be held liable for providing inaccurate information to clients. For example, if a client places an order based on the price stated in the price list and the company refuses to fulfill the order, it may be seen as a breach of a public offer (if the price list constitutes one).
8. Currency and Taxation:
   • It is necessary to specify the currency of the prices and whether taxes are included. This will help avoid confusion and additional disputes with clients.
9. Copyright:
   • The design, layout, texts, and images in the price list may be protected by copyright. This is particularly relevant for price lists that include unique descriptions or visual elements.

A price list, especially in businesses that actively interact with clients (such as retail or services), should be carefully designed not only for relevance and layout but also for the legal protection of the company.