Disclaimer

Platform Role and Limitations

local-ly is a marketplace platform that connects local food producers with customers. We provide technology infrastructure to facilitate these connections but are not involved in the production, packaging, storage, or delivery of products.

1. Product Quality and Safety

All products listed on the Platform are produced, packaged, and provided by independent producers. The Platform:

• Does NOT inspect, test, or verify product quality
• Does NOT guarantee product safety, freshness, or suitability
• Does NOT verify producer claims about organic certification, production methods, or ingredients
• Does NOT take responsibility for food safety issues, including contamination, allergens, or spoilage
• Does NOT guarantee products are free from allergens or suitable for dietary restrictions

Producer Responsibility: Producers are solely responsible for ensuring their products meet all applicable South African food safety laws and regulations.

2. Order Fulfillment and Accuracy

Producers manage all aspects of order fulfillment. The Platform:

• Does NOT guarantee order accuracy (correct items, quantities, or specifications)
• Does NOT control product availability or stock levels
• Does NOT manage order preparation or packaging
• Does NOT guarantee timely fulfillment or pickup availability
• Does NOT verify product descriptions, pricing, or images provided by producers

Producer Responsibility: Producers are responsible for accurate product listings, order fulfillment, and customer satisfaction.

3. Pickup Points and Logistics

Pickup points are managed by producers. The Platform:

• Does NOT own, operate, or control pickup points
• Does NOT guarantee pickup point accessibility, safety, or operating hours
• Does NOT manage pickup point staff or operations
• Does NOT verify pickup point addresses or locations
• Does NOT guarantee storage conditions (refrigeration, temperature control, etc.)

Producer Responsibility: Producers are responsible for pickup point operations, accessibility, and product storage conditions.

4. Health and Safety

The Platform is NOT responsible for:

• Allergic reactions or adverse health effects from consuming products
• Food poisoning, contamination, or spoilage
• Undeclared allergens or ingredients
• Products unsuitable for specific dietary needs (vegan, halal, kosher, gluten-free, etc.)
• Health effects from consuming expired or improperly stored products

Customer Responsibility: Customers must inspect products upon collection and contact producers immediately if there are concerns about quality, safety, or suitability.

5. Disputes and Refunds

All disputes regarding product quality, order accuracy, refunds, or producer conduct must be resolved directly between customers and producers.

The Platform's role is limited to:

• Providing communication channels between parties
• Sharing order and transaction information
• Facilitating resolution where possible

The Platform does NOT:

• Investigate product quality complaints
• Determine fault or liability in disputes
• Process or guarantee refunds
• Compensate customers for producer errors or defective products

6. Payment Processing

Payment processing is handled by Paystack, a third-party payment provider. The Platform is NOT responsible for:

• Payment processing errors or delays
• Unauthorized transactions (contact your bank/card issuer)
• Currency conversion fees or bank charges
• Payment disputes (contact Paystack support)

7. Platform Availability

The Platform is provided "as is" without guarantees of:

• Continuous, uninterrupted access
• Error-free operation
• Compatibility with all devices or browsers
• Data backup or recovery

We reserve the right to suspend, modify, or discontinue the Platform at any time without notice.

8. Third-Party Content and Links

Producer profiles, product descriptions, and images are provided by producers. The Platform does NOT endorse, verify, or take responsibility for third-party content or external links.

9. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by South African law, local-ly and its affiliates, directors, employees, and agents are NOT liable for:

• Direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages
• Loss of profits, revenue, or business opportunities
• Personal injury, illness, or death resulting from product consumption
• Property damage or loss
• Data loss or security breaches
• Producer misconduct, fraud, or negligence

This limitation applies even if we have been advised of the possibility of such damages. Some jurisdictions do not allow limitation of liability for personal injury, so this limitation may not apply to you.

10. Customer Recommendations

To protect yourself when using the Platform:

• Inspect products immediately upon collection
• Check expiry dates and packaging integrity
• Verify allergen information directly with producers
• Store perishable products properly after collection
• Contact producers immediately if issues arise
• Keep payment receipts and order confirmations