On February 14, I had the intense misfortune of visiting this store. They have signs around the store advertising "Trade any DVD and buy this hit movie for 12.95". Not all selections are eligible for this trade discount, but I was instructed by another store that those with signage were the ones one could select on this program.
Two current videos, The Medallion and Secondhand Lions, both had such signs directly in front of their display.in both instances, videos of the title extended both above and below the sign, and on either side of the sign.
When I took a copy of Mediallion to the front, seeking to get the discount, I was told it was not eligible. Accompanied by a clerk, I walked back to the display and showed the sign to the cler. The sign clearly stated "buy THIS hit video..." and was positioned directly in front of the Medallion.
The clerk pointed out small print in the corner of the sign that said the offer applied to specific titles. This conflicted with the bold print clearly visible on the sign. He then escorted me to the middle of the store where a large 3 sided sign showed six specific titles eligible for discount. He had to turn the sign around to see which selections were available for discount.
The upshot is that the sign in the store leads expressly to false and misleading advertising, the other three sided sign was turned away from what would be obvious to the customer, and the clerk refused to discuss the matter further.
I explained this was clear and unambiguous "bait and switch" as defined in consumer protection law. I also indicated my intention to return with a camera to photograph the sign and display with an intent to use this as evidence in a consumer protection complaint. I was informed that I would not be allowed to take a photograph in their store. Subsequent, I called associates by cellular and asked them to come to the store in order to serve as witnesses.
At this writing, my complaint is not resolved, and I eagerly await Monday when their district office opens whereby I may complain. I also visited their corporate website and sent an email to their HQ in Dallas Texas stating my umbrage and intent to take direct action. I also intend to contact consumer advocate Tom Martion of the Troubleshooter radio program, and the state attorney general consumer protection division to lodge complaint.
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