Consumers concerned about wedding photographer closure (Launch Film Productions)

This announcement is for: 
Consumer

UPDATE 27/03/2019:

Consumer Protection has received about 90 calls/emails from consumers affected by the closure of Launch Film Productions, with funds at risk estimated at $450,000. Liquidator appointed is Katie Blyth, PricewaterhouseCoopers 9238 3000 - www.pwc.com.au 

 

Consumer Protection is investigating the closure of a Wangara wedding photography business which has alarmed many consumers concerned about receiving their photos and videos.

The business Knightly Corporation Pty Ltd, trading as Launch Film Productions, was placed into liquidation by the Federal Court today after a winding up application by the Australian Taxation Office. PriceWaterhouseCooper has been appointed as liquidators of the company. The company’s main website has been removed and contact phone numbers have been disconnected.

More than a dozen people have contacted Consumer Protection, some reporting that they are still awaiting the delivery of photos/videos of their weddings and others who have paid deposits and full amounts for upcoming weddings. Reports so far suggest total losses of $40,000.

A former employee has reported that more than ten customers had yet to receive their photos/videos and future bookings included four weddings this weekend and another eight in the near future.

Commissioner for Consumer Protection David Hillyard is calling on affected consumers to come forward.

“While we are still investigating, we are keen to have Launch Film Productions customers contact Consumer Protection and register their details so we can assess the situation and provide them with details of the liquidator and instructions on what to do,” Mr Hillyard said.

“It is always difficult for consumers when a business closes down as their orders and bookings are put into doubt and, in this case, there are fears that the photos and videos that can’t be recreated may not be supplied. There are also concerns for those with future bookings about getting an alternative photographer at short notice.”

Consumers who are awaiting products from Launch Films or have future bookings should contact Consumer Protection by email consumer@dmirs.wa.gov.au or call 1300 30 40 54.

General advice and tips

Consumer Protection receives a significant number of complaints each year against wedding suppliers so we recommend that people planning a wedding to do their homework before engaging suppliers and paying deposits.

Before engaging any services for a wedding, consumers should get recommendations from friends and family. In the case of photographers, verify claims by asking to see previous work and speaking to past clients.

A wedding is a significant life event so use a professional and insist on professional standards. Be careful when choosing someone who is operating as a paying hobby.

We recommend that consumers do not pay the full amount up front for these types of services, as this reduces their bargaining power should there be a delay in delivery and also takes away an incentive for the trader to complete the job on time. Consumers should get a formal written quote which sets out exactly what is included in the price of services and sets reasonable timeframes for delivery.

Consider paying by credit card so if something goes wrong with your purchase, or if goods are not delivered, there may be an option to request a chargeback to reverse the transaction.

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Media Contact: Alan Hynd, (08) 6552 9248 / 0429 078 791 / alan.hynd@dmirs.wa.gov.au  

Consumer Protection
Media release
26 Mar 2019

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