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Welcome to the Journal of Trading Standards online edition, JoTS Online. Browse through our latest Articles - including Analysis, Opinion Pieces, Features and a selection of articles from our acclaimed print journal.
Although many JoTS Online articles are open access (public), others are exclusive to CTSI Members - in which case, you'll need to login to access them. If you aren't a member of CTSI yet, you can join us here. And, if you'd like to contribute articles or suggest topics for us to cover, please email our Editorial Team.
Latest JoTS Online Articles :
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Opinion: from policy to people
Posted: 11 July 2025
OPINION: Effective regulation depends on trust as much as enforcement. This thought-provoking piece argues for culturally aware communication, stronger community engagement and a more people-centred approach to consumer protection.
Opinion: One of the good guys
Posted: 23 June 2025
OPINION: Behind the scenes, dedicated individuals help shape the profession. This profile celebrates Brian Stone's long service to the College of Fellows and the quiet influence of those who keep vital institutions running.
In Conversation: Martyn James
Posted: 23 June 2025
OPINION: Martyn James reflects on a career spent explaining consumer rights to the public, from financial scandals and media work to the growing threat of AI-enabled fraud. His conversation underlines why clear, memorable advice matters when consumers are overwhelmed, anxious or unsure where to turn.
Opinion: My faith and my profession
Posted: 04 June 2025
OPINION: Personal faith and professional duty need not exist in separate worlds. Reflecting on life as a practising Muslim working in Trading Standards, this thoughtful piece explores the shared values of integrity, fairness, service and accountability that underpin both.
Opinion: Staying sharp
Posted: 26 May 2025
OPINION: Reflects on the rapidly changing challenges facing the profession and argues that continuous learning, adaptability and collaboration are essential if Trading Standards is to remain effective.
An opportunity for change?
Posted: 26 May 2025
OPINION: English devolution and local government reorganisation could reshape where Trading Standards sits, how it is funded and how quickly local regulators can act. The piece argues that reform offers a chance to rebuild place-based services, strengthen collaboration with other regulators and address practical questions around boundaries, court action, recovered funds and closure powers.
Opinion: Let's look outward
Posted: 26 May 2025
OPINION: Argues that stronger partnerships, wider engagement and greater visibility beyond the profession will help Trading Standards demonstrate its value and strengthen its long-term influence.
Opinion: Playing the blame game
Posted: 26 May 2025
OPINION: Challenges simplistic narratives around consumer protection failures, examining where responsibility truly lies and why effective regulation depends on shared accountability.
Challenging the status quo
Posted: 26 February 2025
OPINION: Trading Standards cannot protect modern consumers or attract future talent from the sidelines. A direct call for the profession to engage with digital culture, diverse communities and social media on their own terms.
Opinion: Weapons of mass distraction
Posted: 13 January 2025
OPINION: Distraction can be a powerful tactic in public debate and policy. This commentary considers why staying focused on the real issues matters more than ever for Trading Standards.
Opinion: Words of power
Posted: 13 January 2025
OPINION: The language used by regulators, businesses and campaigners can shape behaviour as much as policy itself. Clear communication remains a powerful tool for consumer protection.
Opinion: Let's make things possible
Posted: 13 January 2025
OPINION: Progress depends on creating the conditions for success rather than simply identifying obstacles. This piece explores a positive, practical approach to leadership and change.
Opinion: Hitting the road
Posted: 13 January 2025
OPINION: As the profession continues to evolve, travelling new roads brings fresh opportunities alongside difficult decisions. Reflection, resilience and ambition are central themes.
Opinion: A weigh-in a manger
Posted: 20 December 2024
OPINION: Seasonal traditions provide the backdrop for a thoughtful reflection on weights and measures, professional standards and the enduring relevance of Trading Standards work in everyday life.
Hallmarking: worth its weight in gold
Posted: 08 October 2024
OPINION: Counterfeit gold jewellery remains a major threat to consumers and legitimate traders. This opinion piece argues that effective hallmarking, stronger enforcement and greater public awareness are essential to protecting confidence in the jewellery market.
Opinion: Adapting and thriving
Posted: 22 August 2024
OPINION: Faced with shrinking budgets and rising demands, Newham's Regulatory Services explains how collaboration, partnership working and organisational adaptability have helped maintain effective Trading Standards services while identifying lessons for authorities facing similar pressures.
Help is at hand for UK consumers
Posted: 08 July 2024
OPINION: Cross-border shopping, online marketplaces and increasingly sophisticated scams have made consumer protection more complex than ever. This opinion piece highlights the practical support available through the UK International Consumer Centre team and explains why international cooperation remains vital for resolving disputes.
Opinion: The self-starter
Posted: 08 July 2024
OPINION: A career in Trading Standards can begin in unexpected ways. Reflecting on a journey from an entry-level role into the profession, this personal account considers the value of transferable skills, continuous learning and taking opportunities that can shape a rewarding regulatory career.
Opinion: A taste of things to come
Posted: 08 July 2024
OPINION: Representing a profession as broad as Trading Standards demands ambition as well as experience. Looking ahead to new challenges, this piece reflects on leadership, professional pride, workforce development and the importance of championing the people who protect consumers every day.
Opinion: Get the pieces in place
Posted: 08 July 2024
OPINION: Successful recruitment depends on much more than filling vacancies. Offering practical advice for recruiting managers, this piece explores preparation, working effectively with HR, recognising the right qualities in candidates and building balanced teams capable of meeting future challenges.
