The head of the Federal Consumer Prosecutor's Office (Profeco) of Mexico, Iván Escalante, recently addressed the controversy surrounding the alleged list of allowed foods for entering movie theaters. Escalante clarified that it is not wrong for establishments to prohibit the entry of food.
Regarding a broader issue, Escalante mentioned that the mandatory use of cashless bracelets and the imposition of purchases at festivals and events create legal complications as they represent a relationship between private parties. The head of Profeco expressed his disagreement with the necessity of paying to consume, especially when cashless bracelets have an additional cost and are branded with the event's logo.
Escalante also questioned that, in addition to paying for access and consumption, consumers are promoting the festival brand without receiving benefits in return. In light of these situations, Iván Escalante announced that Profeco and the National Commission for the Protection and Defense of Financial Services Users (Condusef) will analyze mechanisms to prevent consumers from being forced to pay for products or services without alternatives.
The head of Profeco recognized a "legal vacuum" regarding the cashless bracelets used at festivals and mass events. According to Escalante, such regulations have already been implemented in other countries, where rules have been established to ensure transparency in the terms of use and provide methods for refunds without excessive commissions.
Cashless bracelets function as a payment system at mass events, requiring attendees to load their balance in advance. However, complaints have arisen due to fees for recovering unused balances and the imposition of additional purchases, such as reusable cups. Escalante informed that Profeco is in discussions with Condusef to analyze possible regulations and conditions that protect consumers at such events.
