Increasing use of thermal printers by some of the UK's largest retailers are causing problems for consumers returning goods or invoking warranties as the receipts fade. The printers are popular because they don't require ink cartridges; text is created by directing heat onto temperature-sensitive paper. However, the print on the chemically-unstable paper can fade if exposed to light or heat, which is of particular concern for consumers purchasing extended warranties when the ink can fade within weeks. As there is no legal requirement for UK stores to provide receipts there are no rules regarding receipt quality. The Sunday Times said it was aware of the issue but customers could use bank statements as proof of purchase.
Increasing use of thermal printers by some of the UK's largest retailers are causing problems for consumers returning goods or invoking warranties as the receipts fade. The printers are popular because they don't require ink cartridges; text is created by directing heat onto temperature-sensitive paper. However, the print on the chemically-unstable paper can fade if exposed to light or heat, which is of particular concern for consumers purchasing extended warranties when the ink can fade within weeks. As there is no legal requirement for UK stores to provide receipts there are no rules regarding receipt quality. Retailer Argos said it was aware of the issue but customers could use bank statements as proof of purchase.