The ACRA is a Portuguese consumer association that has always stood out for its independence from political, economic and class agendas. It caught lots of fights, keeping itself firmly faithful to its founding principles. Most of those result in victories. Some result in losses that challenge us to improve care and procedures.
The biggest disappointment of our history was be not able to move our partners (Government and Chamber of Commerce and Industry) towards an effective job of putting in action what was long time ago been decided and legislated, with the agreement of all three parties, namely the establishment of the Consumer Dispute Arbitration Centre. But we keep the hope until the day when we will see the last door closing.
The support given by our associates and the appreciation words and applause gestures that they drive to us let us know that we are on the right track. We are not better than anyone. But we are distinctly different. In Portugal there are three generic and nationwide consumers associations: the DECO, the UGC and the ACRA.
The ACRA not leans towards aggressive marketing in front of the consumers just like any other company that have urgently to sell their product. It also does not lean towards the support and the warmth of any other association. It is independent and responsible only to its associates and subsist on their dues and the reimbursement of public funds according to the law.