Submitted all required rebate info on 12/8/03. Waited the 14 weeks stated for rebate. 4/23/04 - called (800) 889-7434 and was informed that "the rebate response was greater than anticipated... They had my name on the list to receive a rebate, BUT due to the overwhelming response they could NOT give me any info on when I would receive it".
5/18/04 - took copy of rebate into local FRY's. "Rebate Rep" took the info, informed me that Columbia was in bankruptcy and that FRY's was attempting to cover the rebates - check back in 2 weeks. Checked back on 6/3/04 - informed that everything had been submitted to FRY's corporate office and it was now up to them - check with them.
Called FRY's Rebate "Dept" (i.E. Leone) at (408) 487-4618 - no answer, got voicemail - leave message, BUT can't leave message - MAILBOX FULL. Attempted several more times, same result. Finally left message with operator - no return call. Left message with legal dept. - no return call. This is one of THREE rebates co-sponsored by FRY's that have gone sour for me. Retailers such as FRY's should not be allowed to dodge the rebate issue. They advertise the rebates as an inducement to sell product (for which THEY ARE PAID IN FULL).
In my opinion, the retailer is just as culpable as the manufacturer in this and should be held accountable. A clear case of BUCK-PASSING and both the retailer and the manufacturer got their money, but not me. Rebate dollars should be forced into an escrow account until all claims have been paid. Nonpayment of advertised rebates really amounts to false and misleading advertising on the part of the manufacturer AND the retailer.
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