Consumer Recommends

How does the programme work?

Manufacturers and distributors whose products have been awarded Consumer Recommends status are eligible to purchase a non-exclusive licence to use the award brandmark in their advertising and promotion.

Why was the Consumer Recommends licence programme developed?

The licence programme was launched to recognise excellence by enabling brands to advertise and promote products that have been awarded Consumer Recommends status. Many companies already refer to our research. However, the references are sometimes incorrect, out-of-date or without our permission. A licensing arrangement allows us to more effectively manage this.

How does this affect Consumer’s independence?

Our independence is what sets us apart from other organisations. We select products for testing based on market research. Manufacturers, distributors and service providers that have received awards and/or have purchased a licence have no involvement in our testing programme.

Consumer NZ reserves the right to withdraw a Consumer Recommends award from a product if appropriate.

How is the income from the licence programme used?

Our work is funded by member fees, revenue from the Consumer Recommends and People’s Choice licence programmes, the Consumer Trusted accreditation programme and contract work, mostly with government departments. All revenue from our licence programmes is used to increase the scope of our research, testing, advocacy and investigative work.

How do I know what products are licensed to use the brandmark?

If you are concerned about a product being promoted without a licence, feel the award brandmark is being used in a confusing manner or wish to ask any questions on the programme, please email us on [email protected].

What are the benefits of the licence programme?

Consumer Recommends status is awarded to the very best products tested by Consumer. Products must meet specific criteria based on the results of rigorous comparative tests and analysis. The licence programme allows you to celebrate this and communicate it to your customers and retailer network.

A licence allows you to use the Consumer Recommends brandmark in a variety of ways – print, online, TV, radio, point of sale, packaging and other advertising, and promotion executions approved by Consumer NZ.

How much does a licence cost?

Please contact Phil Murdoch, Business Programme Manager - [email protected].

What is the duration of a licence?

Licences are granted for a 6-month or 12-month term. Licensees can apply for a renewal at the expiry of their licence term. Renewals will be granted at the discretion of Consumer NZ.

Why does my licence only last for a limited time?

As products and services are constantly changing, we need to be sure we are reviewing the very latest products and services as and when they hit the market. We also need to ensure the information we provide consumers is accurate, timely and current.

Are there any restrictions around being granted a licence?

Licences will only be granted when the Consumer Recommends status is current. Eligibility for a licence is at the discretion of Consumer NZ.

How do I apply for a licence?

Once Consumer Recommends status has been awarded to your product, you will be notified by Consumer NZ. Or you can contact Phil Murdoch, Business Programme Manager - [email protected].

What is the licence process?

• You are a manufacturer or distributor whose product(s) have been awarded Consumer Recommends status.
• You notify Consumer NZ you wish to buy a licence.
• The date of commencement for the licence period is agreed.
• The contract is drawn up and sent out with your award brandmark files.
• Your promotional material is submitted for approval to Consumer NZ.
• Your licence fee is paid and your licence period commences.
• Prior to the end of the licence period you will be notified of the option for renewal.

Do I need to check with Consumer NZ before I use the Consumer Recommends brandmark in my advertising and marketing material?

All use of the brandmark must be approved by Consumer NZ prior to use.

Can we use text or quote an article alongside the Consumer Recommends brandmark?

The licensee can use limited excerpts from the Consumer report that relate to their specific product model in their advertising and promotion of that product. All excerpts must be approved by Consumer NZ before publication.

Can I use my Consumer Recommends brandmark on my company stationery?

The Consumer Recommends brandmark refers to a specific product or service, rather than a brand or company. All usage of the brandmark must be approved by Consumer NZ prior to use.

Is there a limit to the number of times I can use the Consumer Recommends brandmark?

There is no limit as long as it is used in accordance with the criteria outlined within the licence agreement and is approved by Consumer NZ prior to use.

Can I submit my product to be tested?

We select products for testing based on market research. We do not accept free or discounted products from businesses or manufacturers for testing.

We do like to keep up to date with what is happening in the marketplace, so if you have a new product or service you think we might be interested in, please email [email protected]. Your email will be forwarded to our Research and Testing team.

Who should I contact for more information?

If you wish to discuss the Consumer Recommends licence programme further, please contact Phil Murdoch, Business Programme Manager - [email protected].