what can I do?

[sallycroc]

I brough a plug in aerial from Argos.

It turned out to be the wrong signal. So I decided to return it - as I would not use it.

Anyway, I went to the store today - and the customer service assistant said that I could not return it because the box lid was damaged. It basically has a tear. Although a piece of paper was stuck to it - so how was I supposed to open it.

Anyway, so I was humiliated in Argos - I walked out saying that I must have rights as I purchased this product and I wish to return it.

The box is damaged but they can still sell it - surely?

I must have some kind of rights here?

Thanks x

[CushtyFred]

They see it as being returned in an unreselleble condition. I face the same problems when customers return things to me. I usually tell them where to go if I can't resell it.

[sallycroc]

But surely a product can be reboxed - there must be consumer rights on this.

If they were so concerned about the packaging why sellotape a receipt to the lid.

Argos are a well known store and brand. I'm in the middle of writing to the managing director and which magazine!

[JudgeJ]

If you made it quite clear what use you intended to make of the artivcle and it proved unable toperform this function you are entitled to a refund under the Sale of Goods Act. A shop like Argos is particularly liable to give refunds under these circumstances. You are not generally allowed to see the goods before purchase and they have no "expert" staff on hand. Youas the customer thereforre have to rely on an often inadequate catalogue description.

[joko]

you are allowed to see the good before purchase - you just have to ask.

i don't see why they shjould og to all the time and expense to get a new box from the manufacturers, just because you didn't do your homework before you purchased.

and why rip the box before you had checked the item?

having said that aerials are not a 'gift' item so i think they would be able to sell it - assuming its just a little mark...

[sallycroc]

They stuck the receipt on the lid so it was impossible not to rip it

[joko]

so leave it there...or cut the cellotape rather than pull...you didn't have to rip it off straight away.

how big is the rip?


you could try going back on another day and seeing a different person - sometimes you are just unlucky and get the jobsworth of the shop

[Oneeyedvic]

Firstly, since you have just changed your mind adn there is no fault with the product, you are certainly not entitled to a refund.

Argos, and other stores do often offer a refund or exchange if they can resale the item purchased easily.

They are under no obligation to do this however.


I'm inclined to say the same thing as joko - try another day and another person - you may have better luck.

[madman06]

dont take this wrong way sally but would you but something with a ripped lid

[brachiopod]

Forget the indignation for a minute, but why should Argos take it back? Is it their fault "the signal is wrong?
As vic says, they are under no obligation to give you a refund, nor are you entitled in law to one, unless you were absolutely specific about it's intended use, (which, in this case would mean you discussed the exact location of the article's use.)

But then, this is Argos - if you want cheap prices then you can't expect knowledgable sales staff with time to discuss your individual needs.

If you are prepareds to pay a bit more, go to a small, independent store who will be prepared to spend the time to guide and advise - and may have local knowledge eg. signal blackspots and be able to advise accordingly.

Your best bet with Argos is to be polite and fish for and exchange or credit note - you have absolutely no right to a refund.

[JRB]

This question was anwered only a week ago

see Statutory Rights - 28/12/16

"I wish that people would understand their rights under Consumer Law .. You are entitled to a refund by law
ONLY if the goods sold were faulty in the the first place. Many shops will offer you a credit note (which lasts a finite time) or an exchange, in the name of good customer relations. The large chain stores will give you a refund because they can get rid of the goods at their many outlets but neither of these deals is bound by law. The main rule is Caveat Emptor (buyer beware) and that is the only one that will stand up in court so Argos is in the right and your sister should have checked her facts before buying. If she went into detail over her computer software and was told (wrongly) that this system was compatible then she stands a chance of gettting her money back otherwise it could be an expensive lesson."

(for sister and software read self and aeriel - the principle is the same)

I wish that shops (such as Argos) would teach their staff how to deal with these problems without humiliating their customers. Surely they could produce a handout with a brief explanation of the law and their policy which could be given t customers.

[trubble100]

I know it's a bit naughty, but I would take it back and say it doesn't work! lol