Verizon Wireless stores from the outside look the same. All display the Verizon logo and a nice brightly lit sign. But, there is a difference that isn't disclosed. Many of the stores are independently owned "Premium Retail" stores, and others are corporate stores.
There is a big difference. The "Premium" in "Premium Retailer" must mean you "pay more" for less-trained help. For example, I recently learned the restocking fee for a smart phone returned during the 14-day return period is $50 at a "Premium Retailer" and $15 and a Corporate Store.
We recently upgraded two phones from Androids. Since the store only had one 4G android in stock of the model we wanted, I accepted an Iphone 4. Why? I was tired of waiting in the store for them to transfer the address book of my wife's phone which was minimal. It took 3-hours for the staff (1-person) to complete the transfer. When I was told I could return the Iphone for 14-days I thought I was covered since it wasn't what I wanted. Before leaving, a small sheet was attached to the back of the invoice indicating the restocking fee of $50. I didn't even read it... My fault. I just wanted to get out of the store and the most incompetent staff I've ever encountered. When we returned home, most of the apps did not transfer properly and the address books were also missing entries. We spent hours trying to fix the problem. After 10-days I decided I'd prefer the Iphone 4s and asked the Mgr if he might wave the re-stocking fee. Nope! Yes, it was my fault I should have read all the small print before I left the store. But, you can bet I'll never visit this "premium retailer" again. My advice? Go to a Corporate store they know what they're doing and are much less expensive. I'm really disappointed there is no disclosure to the consumer of the varied pricing and difference between stores.
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