20 Years ECC Austria
As the ECC Network (ECC-Net) marks its 20th anniversary, each ECC shares unforgettable moments, taking us on a journey through the local initiatives they have undertaken over the years. Here, ECC Austria presents its highlights over the past 20 years.
Since its inception in 2005, ECC Austria has been an integral part of the ECC Network (ECC-Net) and, before that, of the Euroguichets Network. Hosted by the Austrian Consumer Protection Association (VKI), the country’s leading and most trusted consumer organisation, ECC Austria works closely with VKI’s legal department and has helped initiate several successful court actions that set important precedents for consumer protection in Austria and the European Union.
ECC Austria operates from two offices, located in Vienna and Innsbruck, ensuring nationwide accessibility for consumers across Austria.
Educating the next generation
Young consumers are a key focus of ECC Austria’s work. Through the 'Konsument in der Schule' (Consumer in the School) project, developed in cooperation with VKI, students explore everyday consumer topics, such as online contracts, digital purchases, and advertising awareness.
Consumer magazine Konsument featuring ECC Austria's articles
The campaign is closely connected to Austria’s leading consumer magazine Konsument, which regularly features articles by ECC Austria on cross-border issues and practical consumer advice. The magazine also presents the ECC Case of the Month, showcasing successfully solved cases between two ECCs and highlighting the strong collaboration within ECC-Net across the EU, Norway, and Iceland.
These contributions are used as learning materials in schools, helping students connect consumer experiences with European rights and solutions. Each year, dozens of school classes across Austria take part, deepening their understanding of consumer protection.
Informing consumers through Austrian public transport
To reach consumers in their everyday lives, ECC Austria has launched a public transport awareness campaign in Vienna and Innsbruck. Short, eye-catching digital out-of-home (DOOH) videos are displayed on screens in trams, buses, and stations, sharing practical consumer rights information and promoting ECC-Net’s free support services. With hundreds of thousands of passengers viewing these messages, the campaign has increased ECC Austria's visibility and public engagement considerably.
Fostering international cooperation with Georgia and Japan
In 2024, ECC Austria strengthened international cooperation by hosting expert exchanges with the Competition and Consumer Protection Authority of Georgia and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government of Japan. These discussions focused on shared challenges, such as digitalisation, enforcement, and the protection of vulnerable consumers. By sharing expertise and best practices, ECC Austria continues to contribute to global dialogue and innovation in cross-border consumer protection.
Strengthening cooperation through study visits
Study visits are a cornerstone of collaboration within ECC-Net. They give colleagues who work together across borders the chance to meet in person, exchange expertise, and strengthen mutual understanding, ultimately improving how the network supports consumers.
Hosting the 2024 study visit in Innsbruck
In 2024, ECC Austria hosted a study visit in Innsbruck, the city of its second office, shortly before Christmas. Colleagues from eight ECCs came together to share experiences and explore new ways to assist consumers in cross-border cases.
The visit once again highlighted the strength and value of ECC-Net. Together, we turn challenges into solutions and negative experiences into positive outcomes for European consumers. Being part of the ECC Network is a true privilege, and we are eager to continue our close cooperation in the years ahead.
Want to know more about ECC-Net or ECC Austria?
Are you curious about all ECC-Net activities? Then check out our dedicated 20th anniversary page.
Want to learn more about ECC Austria's activities and services? Then check out their local website in German or English.