M&S Outlet

Web outlets are dedicated clearance spaces on retailers' own websites which flog end-of-line stock or refurbished items.

As you're buying direct from the retailers' website, your rights remain the same, though returns and delivery costs can vary from other stock.

These are official outlets set up by retailers on eBay. Unlike web outlets, most eBay outlets only accept payment via PayPal, which means you'll need to set up an account if you haven't already.

Paying with a credit card can supercharge your consumer rights (see the Section 75 guide for full details). But paying via PayPal, even if you load it using a credit card, means there's no Section 75 protection.

The majority of transactions via eBay run smoothly, but it has its own procedures should your delivery be faulty or not arrive. See eBay's Resolution Centre for full details.

Outlets are a great place to grab bargains on discounted clearance stock, but don't automatically assume they're cheapest. Always use MegaShopBot to compare prices, to ensure it isn't cheaper elsewhere.

Much of the stock on outlets is end of line or from previous seasons. Some though are shop seconds or refurbished items, particularly in the case of electricals.

Your rights are exactly the same with these items, though crucially, if a retailer notifies you of a problem with an item before purchasing you won't be able to return it for that fault.

However you are covered in the case of any other faults you've not been notified of. Many refurbed electrical items come with standard warranties, though do check this before you buy.