Attended a Franchise Opportunity Show sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce in Edmonton, Alberta.
One franchise we were interested in, was the purchase of bank machines. Talked to the sales rep for Enterprenuer Expansion Corp. We took some information about the opportunity and the Sales Rep took our name and phone number. He called daily/weekly making promises about the venture. We were hesitant. He faxed a letter saying that if we put down a $5000.00 deposit it would be "100% refundable", if we decided not to invest or if we could not get financing."
We sent the $5000.00, but were unable to get financing. Then came the year long struggle to get our deposit back. This all started in the fall of 1999. For a year we went through the BBB talked to the President of the Company.
The President of the company claimed the $5000.00 went towards administrative costs and would not refund the money. He would not provide an explanation of the administrative costs. When we told him about the letter guaranteeing our 100% refund from the Sales Rep (who phoned incessantly and hounded us), he said the rep was not affiliated with company and made a misrepresented statement.
Finally, in contact with the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, they stated that they do not check out the companies. The companies pay a fee to be in the show. So be very aware... Research thoroughly, don't trust these sale representatives, don't send in any deposits. If anyne who reads this report has any suggestions on how we can get our $5000. Back please let me know. Or if you have had any bad or good dealings with the company please give me some feedback. Thanks.
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