The Consumer Association has long been criticized for various reasons, but actually, in some places, the Consumer Association is quite effective and actively helps to solve problems, having done quite a few public interest litigations.
In some places, though... calling them a mere decoration would be overrating them. Although the Consumer Association doesn't have much coercive power, if there is such an organization, it should serve some purpose, right?
Lacking enforcement power, then you make an effort to explore alternatives. Old Tang had faced a similar situation in his previous life. Many years ago, there was a dispute between someone and a hospital, and they sought help from the provincial Consumer Association.
Then the hospital refused any form of mediation on the grounds that "medical incidents should be resolved by the health department, and the Consumer Association has no right to intervene."