Shoe must be kidding, a free pair?

12Feb/090

When was the last time you complained and got a resolution? I'd guess it was some time ago, unless you are a serial complainer who can't be pleased.

Well I'm not one to complain generally, but if there is just cause, I will stand my ground and make my opinion heard. For example, poor service or quality in a restaurant won't result in a tip, and I'd make the point to let them know why in advance of paying the reduced final bill.

Clothes shopping though is quite different. If the item shows signs of inferior quality within a short space of time, then an exchange is likely if you have the receipt (which is likely). But if the item is months old, then the retailer would put it down to wear and tear, and you'd be lucky to get anything at all.

Twice in as many months, I've had experiences of poor quality of fashion. Firstly a pair of G-Star Raw jeans split within 48 hours, and secondly a pair of leather shoes from a high end footwear retailer, have split also on the sides after 6/7 months. Together they are worth over £200, but you wouldn't expect that for the price paid for reputable brands.

So this week I'd thought I'd look for some new shoes. With the sales still knocking around, I thought I'd see if I could bag a bargain on the high street. I went back to the original shop to see what was on offer, and I was left to my own devices to browse the racks.

After a couple of minutes, I approached the store manager at the till. I expressed my disappointment that these lovely leather shoes are no longer good enough. Her reponse was to check if they were selling this pair off anywhere in their network.

Result. She agreed that they will match the value of the shoes, all being good, to another pair of these nice shoes. Hopefully next week my new shoes will be shining the streets if London.