I went to Target today to return a pair of boxers I bought for my husband. I accidentally bought the same pair two times and wanted to return one pair. The Target team member told me that the boxers are considered "seasonal/holiday" and they would only be able to refund $1.75 which is the current 75% off price! As I had a receipt, I was offended and asked the team member how the company could do this when I have a receipt showing the price I paid for the item.
Additionally, I asked her how I would know the pair of boxers are "seasonal/holiday". The Target team member pointed to the wall behind her where it says their return policy on "seasonal/holiday" items is to refund the current marked down price. As I was not happy with this response, I asked to speak with a manager. The manager comes over and informs me of the same thing.
I proceeded to argue with her that since I had my receipt I was entitled to the price I paid for the item, and I should not receive a marked down price! The manager informed me this is the company policy. I asked her where it is on my receipt and she told me that it is on the wall at customer service and she alluded to something at the registers which explains their refund policy. Now, I have never seen a refund policy posted at a register in the almost 12 years I have shopped at Target. I also explained to the manager that I wouldn't know that the boxers were seasonal/holiday merchandise and she told me that I should have known since the boxers have lips on them! So, because they have lips on them, that makes them holiday merchandise? Wow! This is a stretch.
Now, some items, such as Xmas ornaments, Xmas trees, Valentine candy hearts are clearly seasonal/holiday items, but a pair of boxers is not. I informed her I would file a complaint with the corporate office.
I left the Target and I was mad because I now refused to shop there and I had some additional items to purchase plus, I felt I was right. I went to another Target about 5 miles away, walked up to customer service and returned the boxers for the price I paid for them! I purchased additional items and asked the cashier about their return policy for seasonal/holiday merchandise. The cashier advised me that if I have a receipt, I get the price I paid for the item, but if I do not have a receipt then I get the current selling price.interesting! I confirmed this with another employee who appeared to be a manager. I felt vindicated!
I went home and researched the Target return policy and low and behold, but it does say that seasonal/holiday merchandise will be refunded at the current selling price. This must be new as I have never had a problem returning a seasonal item to Target. This is a scary policy as they can technically call any item seasonal.
Here is the policy as copied for the website:
"Target Stores Return Policy
We will issue a full refund for most items returned within 90 days in new condition, with the original receipt, packaging and accessories. A form of personal identification may be required.
Also, please note:
Music, movies, video games, software and collectibles must be returned unopened.
Camcorders, digital cameras, portable DVD, computers, portable electronics, framed art, gas-powered scooters and hot tubs purchased from Target.com are subject to a 15% restocking fee.
Holiday and Seasonal merchandise on clearance at the time of the return will be refunded at the current clearance price.
Any purchase made by check may be refunded as a merchandise voucher.
Refund value for each item returned will be reduced to reflect value of free gift or discount.
Other restrictions may apply."
It comes down to this, Target is becoming too big for itself and has taken their customer service and turned it into a joke. If you are not sure about an item, do NOT purchase it as you could be subject to a clearance price on any return you make at the store. Realistically, Target can say any item they sell is seasonal or holiday merchandise and basically screw the customer. Wow! How is that for ripping off their customers?
Susan
Phoenix, Arizona
U.S.A.
0 comments