20 Years ECC Lithuania
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 Lithuania presents its highlights over the past 20 years.
Almond Park information sign
The ECC-Net Almond Park
To celebrate Europe Day on 9 May 2021, ECC Lithuania launched a truly meaningful initiative. In Vilnius, along the Neris riverbank, they planted 30 beautiful flowering almond trees (Prunus triloba) – the ECC-Net Almond Park.
The trees themselves stand as a symbol of sustainability and care. The number of trees reflects the then-30 European Consumer Centres that form the ECC Network (ECC-Net).
Each year, ECC Lithuania, together with the host State Consumer Rights Protection Authority (SCRPA) celebrates Europe Day there, and it has already become a lovely tradition. A variety of activities and events take place in the park, ranging from meaningful initiatives like planting trees to creative gatherings that bring the community together. This combination makes the celebration both festive and memorable.
Innovative approaches to consumer education
ECC Lithuania’s team has always put a lot of energy into making consumer education engaging and accessible for people of all ages. Over the years, they’ve tried almost every format you can think of. From visiting classrooms and giving online lectures, to speaking at conferences, creating interactive games, and even holding events under the open sky or in the halls of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania.
ECC Lithuania always participates in very well-known campaigns, such as 'Vilnius is School', aimed at students, and 'No One is Forgotten', dedicated to seniors, showing just how wide their audience really is.
One of the highlights of 2024 was the intellectual game on consumer rights called 'Learn and Know' held together with SCRPA on 15 March to mark International Consumer Rights Day. The event brought together 200 students from 10 different regions of Lithuania, turning learning into a fun and memorable celebration.
Comic-style colouring book
Is it possible to combine a fun adventure, creativity, and learning about consumer rights? Absolutely! ECC Lithuania, in collaboration with artist Salvija Vaičikonytė, has created an educational publication in the form of a comic-style colouring book. It follows the journey of a curious cat, designed especially for children and teenagers.
The main character, an inquisitive cat, sets off on an adventure filled with different situations that any consumer might encounter – from shopping abroad to travelling by plane. On each page, he encounters challenges, discovers important rights, and shares practical tips as he progresses.
ECC Lithuania is certain that this is an enjoyable and engaging way to raise aware, responsible young consumers who know their rights and feel confident applying them in real life.
What consumers say
Since opening its doors in 2005, ECC Lithuania has handled countless consumer complaints, offered advice to a remarkable number of people, and reached audiences of all ages across the country. But the real achievements go beyond the numbers – it’s the joy of consumers who received help and advice, the heartfelt thank-you messages that arrive after a problem is solved, and the genuine satisfaction of knowing that real help has been provided:
I wish you never lose that warm and sincere communication, which really helps us feel that someone still cares about us even in a hopeless situation.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart 🤗
"The service is very efficient, everything runs smoothly, and most importantly, the seller, who had been ignoring the customer for a long time, began to communicate promptly after the intervention of the institution. 10 points!"
"Very attentive staff, I feel that they genuinely care. I am pleasantly surprised by the positive solutions and high-quality communication."
Want to know more about ECC-Net or ECC Lithuania?
Are you curious about all ECC-Net activities? Then check out our 20th anniversary page for all activities and highlights.
Want to learn more about ECC Lithuania's activities and services? Then check out their local website in Lithuanian or English.