An oldie but goodie - I've seen this CenDyne / Fry's scam posted here by another consumer as recent as 11/03 so I'm posting this as evidence that they've been doing it for a few years.
Purchased CenDyne (12x10x32) CD-RW Drive at FRY's on 1/6/01 based on in-store posting that the valid purchase period for the $30 rebate on this drive had been extended to 1/9/01. Obtained a copy of this posting which was to be included with the rebate submission. Submitted all appropriate rebate materials (including the extension letter) in timely manner. No rebate. Called 914-633-0663 and was instructed to check rebate status online. I checked and received the following message: "Your rebate has been denied for the following reasons: ORIGINAL PURCHASE NOT DURING REBATE PERIOD."??? Helloooo???
Fast forward 3 years. Since I am now dealing with FRY's on a couple of other rebates that have gone sour, I thought I would resurrect this one.
5/18/04 - took copy of rebate into local FRY's. "Rebate Rep" took the info and said she would contact CenDyne - 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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