Which statement best describes an invitation to treat?

• A. An invitation to treat
• B. An offer that must be accepted immediately
• C. A contract that requires a formal signature
• D. An offer that may be accepted as needed from time to time

Answer: (A)

An invitation to treat is a communication that invites others to submit offers, not a binding promise to sell. It signals willingness to negotiate rather than to close a deal on the spot. The classic example is goods on display in a store with a price tag: that display invites a customer to make an offer to buy at that price, and the seller can accept, reject, or negotiate. A contract only forms when an actual offer is made and then accepted. So this statement best describes an invitation to treat: it invites offers rather than being an offer itself. The other options describe an offer that must be accepted immediately, a formal contract, or an ongoing offer, which do not capture the inviting, non-binding nature of an invitation to treat.