Businesses are asked to be vigilant after a local restaurant was targeted in a scam involving an individual representing the Penticton Peach Festival and offering vendor space for the event. Lala Ji’s was impacted by the scam, according to the festival, and submitted payment for what they believed to be a legitimate vendor opportunity. In a media release, Peach Fest said it has since confirmed the individual was not affiliated with the event and that no vendor space has been secured. “We are saddened that
a valued local business has been affected by this fraudulent activity,” said Shawna Tinga, president of the festival. “Our vendor community is an important part of our event, and we want to ensure businesses feel confident in their dealings with us. We encourage all vendors to verify information directly with event organizers before submitting payment or providing personal information.” The festival thanked Lala Ji’s for coming forward with the incident “so that others may avoid a similar situation.” Businesses are being reminded to exercise caution
when receiving offers, invoices, or payment requests. “Vendors should always confirm event participation details directly with the organization through official contact channels before proceeding with payment,” festival organizers added in a release. “The Penticton Peach Festival also encourages fellow event and market organizers to share this warning within their vendor networks, as similar scams have been reported throughout the event industry.” Entering its 79th year, the festival returns to the community from Aug. 5 to 9.
Penticton Peach Festival, vendor scam, Lala Ji’s, festival vendors, business warning, Aug. 5 to 9
Man people are getting scammed everywhere. Peach Fest too??
So they just sent money because someone said they were with the festival? That’s wild. I feel bad for Lala Ji’s… like how are they supposed to know it’s fake.
I saw something like this on Facebook for another event and it was always like “vendor space confirmed” then boom gone. But if the festival confirmed they weren’t affiliated, shouldn’t they automatically reimburse whoever paid? Seems messed up.
The date Aug 5 to 9 keeps getting mentioned like that matters for the scam lol. I’m not saying it’s their fault but also… why would anyone pay before getting the contract? Also maybe the “invoice” looked legit, so if you didn’t have the right contact info you’re screwed. Just sucks.