Fraudulent Act @ Futureshop‏

[chshwong]

I just sent the following to Future Shop:


Howdy,

On Sunday, October 25th 2009, I went to a Future Shop store located in Heartland Town Centre of Mississauga, 5900 Mavid Rd.
I wanted to buy a 46" LCD tv with 120hz, ranging between $1100-$1300. A sales rep named Arun was helping me, he had great attitudes. After some presentations from him, one of his coworkers happened to push out a Samsung 46" LCD in a box that is not on display. He happened to pass by us, and told me that it's the last one left in store, that' it's a Samsung of 700s series with 240hz, and that it's only $1700.

Arun continued the selling for this product. He confirmed that it's Brand New, that it's a 46" Samsung LCD of 700s series @ 240hz, and that it's a really good price at only $1700. He told me with lots of passion (well hired). That got me interested as I know something like that should cost around 2k up.

I couldn't see the specs written on the box, so I asked Arun, to show me the specs on the computer, just to be safe. So he went to one of the computers on display, and opened up this product on the Future Shop site. It was this one:
http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0770HDS0010121225&catid=
It's a Samsung 46", 700s series, just like the box says. I saw the specs, and he kept repeating with passion about the 240hz, 150 000:1 contrast ratio. The site was still displaying $1999, so he again repeated what a good deal it is to get it at $1700.

I asked if he could get me a better deal, because it's still much higher than what i was orginally planning to spend. He showed me this tv table for $399. He said that he'll try to get it free for me, along with the $70 that i would have to pay for the 1-year-no-payment-admin-fee.
Finally, after spending 1 hour at his computer to get my info, talking to his manager and making my Future Shop card, i got nothing but just a $35 off my admin fee. Since Arun was nice, and that it was a really long day, I just bought it.

I went through a lot of hassles to get a van to drive it to my new vacant house the next night, it is not close to where I'm currently residing. My Fianée and I, 2 tiny people, took a lot of effort to transport and unpack it. Finally, that Monday night, it was set up. Woohoo.
Then that's where I noticed the stand looked kind of different from the website.

The next morning, Tuesday 27th, after an hour of research on why the stand is different, I realized from my bill that, I was sold the model LN46A750, and that what Arun has been presenting to me was a LN46B750. The difference is that,
it's only a 120hz, 50 000 contrast ratio with a stand that doesn't turn, instead of a 240hz, 150 000 contrast with a stand that turns.
I was really mad. Because something like that, could have easily cost me 1100-1300 at your own store, not 1700.
I trusted Future Shop's sales rep, and even took the effort to confirm the specs on a computer with him. And later i noticed it was an open box too! Not brand new like he claimed.

That Tuesday evening, I went to that Heartland Future Shop again, looking for Arun. A guy from his department who's really nice too, said that Arun is not there. He listened to my concerns and felt bad for me, but he couldnt' do anything because Arun was not there, his department manager was not there, and the store manager was not there. That's what he claimed. Scary store. That was hard to believe, especally because they seem to need a manager whenever the sales rep needed to deal better prices. But I let it go and asked for their schedule. He said the next day, Arun works 5-9, and the deparment manager of home theater works 1-9.

The next day, wednesday oct 28, i called at 1:30 to talk to the Department's manager of home theater. He rep says he's not there yet, asked me to call back at 2:30. So I called at 3:00, finally he responded. He was not a nice one.
I mentioned about my 700s series Samsung, and he immediatly asked if it's an A or a B series. So he is well aware of the differences. I told him my whole situation.

The manager on the phone said if I don't like it, I can just return it. I asked if that's it? I went through so much troubles because you guys made a mistake or lied to me. He said he'd have to listen to Arun's side first, and he wont' be back till Friday. Then I said, what? your guy told me that Arun will be here tonight(Wednesday) from 5-9. He pretended to double check and then said no, it will be Friday. He said that even if Arun is wrong, it's Impossible that they'd exchange it to the LN46B750 for me, and that if I don't like it, I can just return.

Wow, I expected much more from the reputable Future Shop. I went back to futurehop that night around 6. Arun was there, so another lie...
So I talked to him. I said: Arun, remember you sold me this Samsung 46" 700s series? He said Ya, happy with an innocent look. Then i said remember how you said it's a 240hz. He interrupted me there immediatly, and said "I never said it's a 240hz". SO he is Well Aware of the situation, as he didn't even have to ask if it's an A or a B series. I kept talking, and reminded him that he even took the effort to bring me to a computer to confirm it's a 240hz with 150000 contrasts. Then it "clicked", and he said: " Oh yeah, i"m so sorry etc ". At least he admitted, which made me feel better.

But what sucked is, he couldnt' do much either. He went to deal with his manager. He came back and told me, this LN46B750 is selling at $2199, and we'll sell it to you at $1899. Oh my goodness. That's another lie!! I told him, what are you talking about? Go to the site with me now! LN46B750, is sold at $1999 not $2199, and it's not even on sale. He giggled and said "well that's what my manager said". On top of that, (i didnt' say this), I knew the $100 off is simply from the coupon that anyone gets if they purchase over 1k during that 3-days. I'm not compensated at all from this fraud or mistake.

So I simply tried to return. But my bad, I forgot to pack the controller, and had to come back the next day to do it. Telling you this just for the sake of completeness.

But you see how much I went through right? 4 nights at futureshop, borrowing a van, and all the transportations involved, on top of this mental stress and time consumption, just because of the huge dishonesty of this home theater department at Future Shop of Heartland Town Centre in Mississauga.

Have I not noticed the stand difference, I would have paid so much for nothing, and incorrectly brag to others about this "good deal" I got. If it was someone else who's even less literate with electronics, he/she would have been tricked.

This is a really serious issue for a big company like yours.
The use of dishonesty, deception. or false representation in order to gain from your consumer is considered Fraud.
I was planning to get my appliances for my new home from Future Shop too, but I'm really reluctant now.
The managers there didn't do anything, but just lied or hid or just stayed defensive.

I have never filed a complaint before, but this one is just too much.
A number of forums and I with my Fiancée, friends, coworkers, and family members will be looking forward to your response about this. I hope correct actions will be taken and that fair compensations will be given as well.
-----------------------------------
[My receipt and account info]
-----------------------------------


Thank you for your time, your effort will be greatly appreciated.

- Jack (Cheung Shing) Wong
[Phone Number]

[rsasp]

long read.

anyway, it sucks when that happens, especially when purchasing items over thousands.

Please keep it update as I want to know the verdict from the head quarter.

[zoro69]

if you sent it to the general email, the outsourced call center will just send it to that store's manager. get it to head office, and c.c. it to ellen roseman (the things shes chosen to cover they've jumped to rectify)

[Staples_Associate]

Hey -

So it was an honest mistake on their part, which is why they returned it with no issues.

However, you should still get some kind of compensation for your time and efforts and the rental of a moving van as well. The best they could probably do is a gift card or a discount on merchandise in their store.

Wait and see what they come back with, and if you don't like it, call their head office and speak (not email) with a customer service manager or rep. Companies like this have a whole team which is dedicated to helping people with issues like yours.

Good Luck!

[carmaster]

This is typical Futureshop. They will probably send you a coupon code for 5% off, which is usually what they do when they screw up.

[punisher101]

When you purchased your TV did you look at what you bought on your reciept? That probably could have saved you some hassles.

I generally treat FS salespeople like criminals you need to question there word on everything. Run through scenarios and have them point out there policies in writing. During sales there sweet as honey but post sales they are aholes.

A sucky situation. I'm glad you posted this on RFD.

[Jon Lai]

A gift card would be nice, but it would've been your responsibility to make sure that you were getting the right model. Shady rep for sure, but still, it's your responsibility. And it didn't seem like the manager cared much that his CSRs were misinforming customers either.

[avp77]

Not really surprising coming from Future Shop. They've become a retailer I avoid doing business with.

[Wizard1]

yeah I tend to buy from small box, independent (but authorized) dealers now a days. Better prices, better service, and they actually care and value your business. Yes it might be slightly higher hassle b/c you have to deal directly with manufacturer if you need warranteed service, but in the end its still worth it. (If you're buying a reliable brand name and do your research you shouldn't need to have to deal with warranty services anyways)

[audit13]

The lesson here is to always check your paperwork before signing on the dotted line.

[zzz3]

if you sent it to the general email, the outsourced call center will just send it to that store's manager. get it to head office, and c.c. it to ellen roseman (the things shes chosen to cover they've jumped to rectify)

+1, forward this to ellen roseman, if your story checks out and is legitimate. I got my 60gb launch ps3 repaired free of charge through this method.

[Frankie3s]

I stopped going into Future Shop close to 8 months ago. I hated the really push service people and they pounce all over you as soon as you get past the customer service counter. Plus when you do need their help they tend to know very little about the product that their selling.

[rabbit]

> He showed me this tv table for $399. He said that he'll try to get it free for me, along with the $70 that i would have to pay for the 1-year-no-payment-admin-fee.
+
> i got nothing but just a $35 off my admin fee

Dude, you should have walked away right there.

Sure, Future Shop was bad (according to your story), but why do people put themselves in situations to get ripped off? $469 isn't anywhere close to $35. Time to sound the alarm: All hands, abandon ship.

[Nikita]

if you sent it to the general email, the outsourced call center will just send it to that store's manager. get it to head office, and c.c. it to ellen roseman (the things shes chosen to cover they've jumped to rectify)

+1, forward this to ellen roseman, if your story checks out and is legitimate. I got my 60gb launch ps3 repaired free of charge through this method.

+2 If anybody can help you it's Ellen! I can't say enough good things about her, she's helped me in the past and I've become a huge fan of hers since. If you read her website you'll see how many people have asked for help and how many have been helped by her. She rocks in my books!

[bylo]

+2 if anybody can help you it's ellen! I can't say enough good things about her, she's helped me in the past and i've become a huge fan of hers since...
+1

[Cisco KId]

do your own homework, don't accept what a FS droid tells you, confirm your item by checking the manula prior to leaving, ensure you buy the model number matching the specs you want. price check in advance before going to FS, not really sure if I sympathize with you and unfortunately it cost you wasted time aggrevation and money. Good Luck just return it and purchase what you need elsewhere

[woof]

You never noticed that the model number on the box didn't match the model number you were looking at on screen?

You never noticed that the item was an open box? How could you miss that?

etc.

I'm going to go against the tide here and say that you were partly responsible for your own misfortune and I have difficulty finding a lot of sympathy. I find your rant about "dishonesty, deception. or false representation." a bit hard to swallow.

[devils-haven]

what you should realy hate in places like bb/fs is people who are only ther to sell but care not about the product or customer, only on bottom line, sadly those are the people who get promoted the fastest, and sadly those are the people who get the most returns

[darkprince]

There is nothing new about this...

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/futureshop-misleading-sales-pitch-805594/

[Siye]

When it comes to sales reps...

Always listen to what they say with caution.
Yeah most of em won't blatantly lie, but many of em ARE NOT informed about the product they are selling.

And by informed, I don't mean knows a few basic details, but I mean really KNOWS how to cater to your needs.

If you always wanna be 100% satisfied with your purchase...
You gotta confirm everything yourself, do your homework and inspect everything before handing over the cash.

Consider it to be a lesson well learned.

[ndinadis]

sounds like a ****** experience, kind of takes the fun out of buying a tv eh.
I work for best buy in Burlington, we don't make commission and I know that they people that I work with are very knowledgeable about the products we sell, and would never do something like this. If your still looking for a TV like others have said, shop around at some local smaller retailers they always need the business, often you will get as good deals and they often have great knowledge about their products. (2001 AV is an exception stay away they are worse then futureshop lol

[Hunter316]

Those people that are telling the OP that they should have looked at the invoice and the screen when making the purchase are correct but in many cases the computer and/or invoice will not have the full product number on it. Future shop programs their own information for each product into their system and that is done by someone in IT who has a certain amount of space to work with to fit what is sometimes a long description. This means that multiple items might seem to have the same description in Future Shops POS system and that is what will also show up on the invoice.

As for it being OB or the wrong information on the box its up to the customer to see that.

[CatDog]

whenever I shop at that location I expect the lowest customer service possible - and the lowest prices for that reason.

[night blade]

OP, feel your pain, went through a somewhat similar situation a few years back.

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/future-shop-plasma-tv-issues-542250/

They did manage to get things straitened out in the end, but it was not a fun expierence that my first HD TV purchase should of been.

Will never deal with FS for any major purchase, not worth the problems.

[eightyeight]

...I told him, what are you talking about? Go to the site with me now! LN46B750, is sold at $1999 not $2199, and it's not even on sale. He giggled and said "well that's what my manager said". On top of that, (i didnt' say this), I knew the $100 off is simply from the coupon that anyone gets if they purchase over 1k during that 3-days...

For some reason, I can't stop laughing at this.. "He giggled" :lol::lol::lol:

[chshwong]

Thanks guys for reading.

I'd like to say, yes, I had the duty to double check that the model number on the box was what he was presenting me on the site.

This is really my point here. This is where it felt like a trap.
1. That guy was so sure and passionate about his product.
2. It really was a 46", a Samsung, and a 700s series.. and kept repeating that.
3. More than 1 sales rep there told me that it's a 240hz with confidence.

That's why I fell into the trap, for trusting a future shop sales rep. So my post is really to tell you guys, never trust them, and do more than what I did, don't be naive like i was.

After my purchase and went back to them, every single one of them, including Arun my direct salesguy, were so aware that there is a difference between A and B. Their mode completely switched.

So I'd like to let you consumers know that, you can't let your guard down even with the giant Future Shop. Don't want you guys to make the same mistake like I did.

And yes.. you're right, we should do our homework.
But sadly, the homework that I did told me a 240hz of Samsung shouldn't be as cheap as $1700.
That's also part of their trap that i fell into. I wasn't originally planning to buy that one, and they gave that pressure of telling me it's the last one remaining, and they sold a few that day... and the product "seemed perfect" for the price. But they lied, or "made a mistake".

And a big purpose of this complaint to Future Shop is to have them taking a closer look to their sales guys, so they wont' set up these cons to foul customers any longer.
I'm sure there are tons of consumers that are much less cautious and knowledgeable than I am.

Seriously, there's no way we can know if this was a set up or an honest mistake, it wasn't that honest too me if I look at how different they are during and after the sell. They were so aware of the 2 different series after they are sold out with this product, but not when they were selling it? And that all managers are gone when I need them? And the manager also lied to me that their guy is not there so we couldn't solve the issue right away?
And when i went back to Arun, he didn't even had to ask if I got an A or B series, but already knew that mine wasn't 240hz. While the manager on the phone would at least ask which series it is, as this should be naturally the first concern. Does that mean Arun knew well it was a 120hz at the time he sold, but lied that it's a 240hz? Cause really if I were my Fiancee, or like my parents, I'd never found out that I got tricked after the purchase. I was lucky because I paid attention to the stand, and happened to google it up later.

And what pissed me off more is, when i ask for a deal, they are so passionate to talk to their manager. But when I need to complain, all managers are absent?

They are just really dishonest, or really unorganized. Either way, it's good to let you guys know, and have their head company to fix it.

:)
-------------------------------------
UPDATE: A girl from future shop emailed me saying that she'll guarantee that i'd get a satisfactory resolution. And asked for more of my personal information and date of incident.

I received the later few hours after i filed a complaint to them.

:)

[Winkle]

That's why I fell into the trap, for trusting a future shop sales rep. So my post is really to tell you guys, never trust them, and do more than what I did, don't be naive like i was.



Hehe, most of us here don't trust any reps from Future Shop or Best Buy as far as we can throw them. They are even more vicious at FS because of sales commissions.

Remember, they just want the commission, they don't care, they'll do whatever it takes to make the pitch and sell something to you. They are just as bad as a used car sales person. If it seems too good to be true, it most certainly is especially with Future Shop.

[bylo]

So my post is really to tell you guys, never trust them, and do more than what I did, don't be naive like i was.
Which is one of the purposes of this forum. Thank you for sharing, despite the flak from others.

They are just as bad as a used car sales person.
Q. What's the difference between a computer salesperson and a user car salesperson?
A. The used car salesperson knows that they're lying.

[SuckaB]

Definitely don't trust these sales guys (but you can trust me now that I don't have any affiliation with them =D). I used to be involved in one and I can tell you that most of these dudes/dudettes don't know jack about their products. When push comes to shove, they'll have to say anything to get a sale out of the door (because managers only want numbers numbers numbers).

THAT'S the reality.

[antichrysler]

Sorry to hear about what happened to you. This is bad, even for futureshop. I've been burnt there a few times and now I simply don't shop there. Even if they have a lower price I will either price match elsewhere, or I will wait for a competitor to have the same or similar deal.

If it's not a large price difference I usually just go elsewhere.

Best of luck dealing with them.

[xaznxplaya]

Sorry to hear about it =/ Another reason to not to go to FS, the only thing I've bought from them was some blank DVD pack when it was on special but I didn't go back since a while and don't think I'll do. Believe it or not I had only one good experience with FS, it was many years ago when I knew nothing at all about comps. I came and asked the rep. if he had any good video card available then he told "Don't buy cards from here, it's pure BS"( In french, though). So yah, since I know what I'm aware of.

[number8888]

Unfortunately not a week goes by without someone complaining about FS. Personally I do my own research before hand and just walk in and buy whatever.

So I wasn't able to look at the receipt (if it was posted at all). But if the receipt indicates A750 and priced at 1799 it's a big rip off as it is a model from I think two years ago. However it's not likely that they would do an exchange as there's no solid proof of what happened during the sale. Your best recourse is to just return it and chalk it up as a lesson learned. Remember that you only have 30 days to return.

If the receipt indicates a B750 then they should get you a B750. Basically they gave you the wrong TV, and hopefully it's not too hard to trying get the proper model. Walking out with the A750 would means that you are partly to blame for not checking properly.

Sounds to me that the guy honestly didn't realize the different between a B-series from an A-series. It's partly Samsung's fault for not using more clear model numbers. I am not surprised by their reluntancy to action when you went back though. The truth is that after the sale they don't really care about the customer anymore and you usually have to deal with customer service.

Another thing to consider is whether you really need a 240hz screen. Plenty of 120hz TV's have amazing picture, and the difference between the two aren't discernable to the most people. Since you didn't want the 240hz in the first place you can get your money back and start the buying process again ELSEWHERE (though it's a hassle at this point, you would save some money).

Anyway good luck.

[Phila213]

This is why you should never trust a sales rep, before purchasing a product you should research the information on the internet, watch reviews etc. Never go into a store if you are unsure of something because they will take advantage of you.

[Psubs]

Hold out and buy your TV boxing week or in January.

I'm looking at the Sony S5100 for $999.99. :razz:

I missed the weekend sale at the Delta in Markham. :|

[ggs]

This is why you should never trust a sales rep, before purchasing a product you should research the information on the internet, watch reviews etc. Never go into a store if you are unsure of something because they will take advantage of you.

better yet, never trust arun from heartland.

[Troi]

What an awful experience at FutureShop. I'll avoid it now. We're looking to buy a new TV right about now as well.

[Winkle]

Unfortunately not a week goes by without someone complaining about FS. Personally I do my own research before hand and just walk in and buy whatever.

So I wasn't able to look at the receipt (if it was posted at all). But if the receipt indicates A750 and priced at 1799 it's a big rip off as it is a model from I think two years ago. However it's not likely that they would do an exchange as there's no solid proof of what happened during the sale. Your best recourse is to just return it and chalk it up as a lesson learned. Remember that you only have 30 days to return.

If the receipt indicates a B750 then they should get you a B750. Basically they gave you the wrong TV, and hopefully it's not too hard to trying get the proper model. Walking out with the A750 would means that you are partly to blame for not checking properly.

Sounds to me that the guy honestly didn't realize the different between a B-series from an A-series. It's partly Samsung's fault for not using more clear model numbers. I am not surprised by their reluntancy to action when you went back though. The truth is that after the sale they don't really care about the customer anymore and you usually have to deal with customer service.

Another thing to consider is whether you really need a 240hz screen. Plenty of 120hz TV's have amazing picture, and the difference between the two aren't discernable to the most people. Since you didn't want the 240hz in the first place you can get your money back and start the buying process again ELSEWHERE (though it's a hassle at this point, you would save some money).

Anyway good luck.

OP's issue is not whether or not they need a 240Hz TV over 120Hz, but rather the sales rep clearly told them they were buying a 240Hz TV but sold them a 120Hz TV... that's the problem. It's like buying a car with a six-cylinder engine only to find out it has a 4-cylinder engine when you get home and check under the hood.

Also, FS is fine if you know what you're doing, just never walk in uninformed, do your own research and know what you want and that's it. I bought my TV from FS last year and basically walked up to a TV sales rep and asked if they had the model I wanted in stock. They replied yes, and I said I will take one, BUT I do not any extended warranties, or Monster cables, or Rogers HD packages or anything else, just the TV. If you try to push anything else on me, I will turn around and go find another sales person, do we have an understanding? And they said "yes, ok" and that was it, no hassle no bother.

[myversa]

I once asked a future shop sales representative the difference between two printers and all he could tell me was by reading the description tags. He had no clues beyond the information on that tags. Even I asked him more details, he could not tell me but just repeat the sentence on that tag....

sad...

[candytweety]

sorry to hear about that..
Now I know I should not trust any FS sales.

for those who doesn't know too much about TV (like me and my parents..)..for sure I will not notice they're different model..

I can't believe that they made such a huge mistake!!
hope you will have some compensations back.
keep us posted! :)

[HoleyMoley]

..........
Then that's where I noticed the stand looked kind of different from the website.

The next morning, Tuesday 27th, after an hour of research on why the stand is different, I realized from my bill that, I was sold the model LN46A750, and that what Arun has been presenting to me was a LN46B750. The difference is that,
it's only a 120hz, 50 000 contrast ratio with a stand that doesn't turn, instead of a 240hz, 150 000 contrast with a stand that turns.
I was really mad. Because something like that, could have easily cost me 1100-1300 at your own store, not 1700..........


Sounds a little lame. You paid more for the "superior" 240hz with 150 000 contrast ratio, but didn't even notice you had bought, and were watching, an inferior TV with only 120hz and 50 000 contrast ratio (you noticed only the stand was different). Maybe the better TV would have been a completely frivolous waste?


.....Have I not noticed the stand difference, I would have paid so much for nothing, and incorrectly brag to others about this "good deal" I got. If it was someone else who's even less literate with electronics, he/she would have been tricked...........


You mean someone less literate with TV stands


..........
I realized from my bill that, I was sold the model LN46A750, and that what Arun has been presenting to me was a LN46B750. The difference is that,
it's only a 120hz, 50 000 contrast ratio with a stand that doesn't turn................

You should be responsible enough to read your receipt before you sign it, and that is not a FutureShop issue - that applies everywhere.


.... I'm not compensated at all from this fraud or mistake.
...................................
But you see how much I went through right? 4 nights at futureshop, borrowing a van, and all the transportations involved, on top of this mental stress and time consumption, ...................

I have never filed a complaint before, but this one is just too much.
A number of forums and I with my Fiancée, friends, coworkers, and family members will be looking forward to your response about this. I hope correct actions will be taken and that fair compensations will be given as well.

It is your word against his, and you didn't bother to check the receipt you signed. You are owed a refund and an apology - nothing more.

[chshwong]

HoleyMoley, you sound like you were sent by Future Shop.. anyway..

Sounds a little lame. You paid more for the "superior" 240hz with 150 000 contrast ratio, but didn't even notice you had bought, and were watching, an inferior TV with only 120hz and 50 000 contrast ratio (you noticed only the stand was different). Maybe the better TV would have been a completely frivolous waste?
Cool down.. Where did you get all these assumptions?
I never played movies or anything on it beside playing with the settings. I noticed the stand different when I was setting it up.



You mean someone less literate with TV stands

Nope, someone less literate with electronics.


You should be responsible enough to read your receipt before you sign it, and that is not a FutureShop issue - that applies everywhere.

Yes, I agree that I made this mistake.
So I am telling consumers here, to NOT trust their salesguy, but do a little more such as what you mentioned. Learn from my mistake.
Thanks for confirming this once again.

And I'd still say.. it's very natural for someone to let the futreshop guy do all the transactions and have you just signed and confirm the $ amount.
It's a long process doing the Card, and dealing with the manager. And they probably saw that problem with customers too, and possible took advantage of it.

And yes, I will not commit the same mistake next time, I will not trust Future Shop salesman again.

:)

[antichrysler]

I think futureshop gives retailers a bad name overall. I can honestly say these are retailers I have never had misrepresentation with (in no particular order):

1. Visions
2. Costco
3. Compusmart
4. Krazey Kileys
5. Audiowarehouse
6. PC Place
7. NCIX
8. Memory Express
9. Canada Computers
10. Dell

Those are the first 10 that came to my mind. I got through university working in retail and not once exploiting my customers the way FS did to you.

All of the retailers above are direct competitors of Future Shop.

[setell]

Maybe it's just me but you spent 1hr at Futureshop to buy a TV????:confused::confused::confused: I am in and out at FS all the time!

When I bought our tv last year at Leon's it was a pure impluse buy too. So my fiancee and hauled it home and didn't open it while I checked if I got a good deal or not. Till I verified it was a ok or good deal he couldn't open it. If it was a bad deal then we haul it back unopened! That's how I deal with impluse buys :cheesygri

[Nikita]

Thanks guys for reading.

I'd like to say, yes, I had the duty to double check that the model number on the box was what he was presenting me on the site.

-------------------------------------
UPDATE: A girl from future shop emailed me saying that she'll guarantee that i'd get a satisfactory resolution. And asked for more of my personal information and date of incident.

I received the later few hours after i filed a complaint to them.

:)

I agree it would have been prudent of you to check the model number, but I don't agree that any of this is your fault! YOU didn't lie to them, YOU didn't dick them around with fast talk and 'passion', YOU should be able to expect salespeople to be honest (and of course THEY should be), YOU did nothing wrong in my opinion, so please stop being so hard on yourself. They were deliberately dishonest and unethical. I'd bet money that those who are flaming you cuz you had the audacity :rolleyes: to trust a salesperson to be honest about what he was selling you don't go to the same lengths they tell you you're at fault for. These are salespeople, not criminals that are selling you stuff out of the back of a van, this is supposed to be a reputable company, we shouldn't have to be suspicious of salespeople lying to us IMO. Sure we know they all embellish and exaggerate and sure we should beware of that, but from my POV they are totally at fault, what they did is inexecusable and yes, borders on fraudulent (maybe not even borders on). Apparently the powers that be agree since they've now agreed to take care of the problem. If they have any sense at all they'll go over and above the minimum to fix the problem and give you a GC or discount or something for your troubles. If they know about this thread, and I'm sure they do, and if they're smart (I'm not so sure about that) they'll realize that ending this saga with you posting that you got something more than just what you should have got in the first place will serve them well at no loss to them.

Anyway, glad to see their response, please let us know how it all turns out, I am curious to see what they'll do to make this really bad advertising go away or turn around to something positive for them.

But please stop being so hard on yourself. Not checking the serial number vs. their deliberate dishonesty....nah, you shouldn't be taking any of the blame for such a fiasco. ARAIC, this is totally on them!

[punisher101]

I do agree that many FS sales people act without ethics. When I was purchasing a TV I caught the salesperson a number of times mentioning false information, assumptions and general lack of knowledge. But that's the thing most consumers don't invest time in research they just believe the salesguy. Of course he is going to mislead you.

They are the dangerous kind of stupid the ones that think they know they but they know nothing about there product.

The fleece people on a daily basis and they do it so often that they become more and more brazen.

[anhtuan]

This happens a lot because people don't research and find out what they want a head of time. Then they walk into a Futureshop and a salesman will just read all the specs off the little price tags they have without even knowing what the hell most of those things are. I'm gonna have to say that 9 out of 10 futureshop sales rep don't know squat about what they're selling and just read whatever is on those price cards. Thats why when you are making a purchase its best to know what you want a head of time and just go there to negotiate the price. I could rant on about the people working there but then it would start to sound really racist and I'd probably get banned, even though I am not, but yes, its also up to the consumer to make sure they product they bought is what they are told and to double check, mistakes do happen, I'm not sure if this Arun made a mistake or not, but the OP should've double checked, I've bought 3 TVs in the last 2 years all 46+ inches and everytime I ask to see the box and make sure its not an open box and make sure its the right TV, cause its just a hassle to bring the thing back. Futureshop is pretty easy with their return policy, but its just a hassle lugging big items back and the manager usually gives you a dirty look if u return a big ticket item. Anyways, lesson here is double check your purchase and do the research before you buy instead of getting talked into buying something else from someone who probably knows less then you about the products (after you spend 20 minutes to do the research that is).

[batcave]

Don't listen to a FS employee for merchandise information. Do your research before you go into the store. They generally don't know what they sell or anything else for that matter.

I went in last week looking for a power inverter for my car. The first sales person said they didn't sell them so I ignored them and then pulled it up on a computer in their store. I asked another sales person about it and that person couldn't figure out where the item was located. It took three of them to find it. It was almost comedic - but it was really a tragedy.

When it was located, the price on the website and the scanned price didn't match. Shopping there was a complete fiasco.

[M-_-C]

That heartland store has got to be by far the WORST future shop location in canada i have heard more complaints from people in dealing with that store i myself live right by there and have made one purchase from there which got returned cause it was a piece of garbage and i went in about 3 weeks ago to buy an iphone and the rep flat out lied to me telling me that i needed to sign up for a data plan to have an iphone when i clearly stated to him about 10 times i have a data plan already i just wanted to do a upgrade he told me no way he is selling me an iphone without a data plan so i just left called rogers from the parking lot and had the iphone at my house in 2 days after spending about 3 minutes on the phone with rogers. The rep actually wrote down my personal phone number and called me from his personal cellphone to tell me to come back in that he was able to do something for me i stated that I already had one comming from rogers and he said call them and cancel it and come to me rogers is lying to you when they say it will be there in 2 days. I got fed up and hung up after about 20 seconds on the phone with him. Sorry to go off topic kind of but its just another example of the kind of crap this store will try to pull

[stuff352]

Futureshop is not a bad place to buy a TV from if you know how to handle them.

1. Do not go on a Sat or Sunday
2. Ask them to hook up a blueray player to it and compare using the same input... i actually got the sales guy to plug in a blueray into 3 different tvs so i could see how they perform with the same movie
3. Once you decide on a tv ask them to open infront of you... they will do this if they are not busy. We got the guy to hook up a blueray so we could check for dead pixels or if it was opened before before we left the store. (plastic film, fingerprints).

The key is to go when they are not busy and they will jump through hoops for you, make the sleeze ball work for their commission.

The last but most important rule of all

Monster cables are the "bestest" and you should buy ten of them!!!:cheesygri

[sonic]

Sorry you had such a crappy experience. I hate going to FS...i am always pounced on by some young dude that doesnt seem interested in helping me..hes just trying to make a sale:|

it would be nice if someone actually took pride in thier work.

[smartie]

Thanks guys for reading.

I'd like to say, yes, I had the duty to double check that the model number on the box was what he was presenting me on the site.

This is really my point here. This is where it felt like a trap.
1. That guy was so sure and passionate about his product.
2. It really was a 46", a Samsung, and a 700s series.. and kept repeating that.
3. More than 1 sales rep there told me that it's a 240hz with confidence.

That's why I fell into the trap, for trusting a future shop sales rep. So my post is really to tell you guys, never trust them, and do more than what I did, don't be naive like i was.

After my purchase and went back to them, every single one of them, including Arun my direct salesguy, were so aware that there is a difference between A and B. Their mode completely switched.

So I'd like to let you consumers know that, you can't let your guard down even with the giant Future Shop. Don't want you guys to make the same mistake like I did.

And yes.. you're right, we should do our homework.
But sadly, the homework that I did told me a 240hz of Samsung shouldn't be as cheap as $1700.
That's also part of their trap that i fell into. I wasn't originally planning to buy that one, and they gave that pressure of telling me it's the last one remaining, and they sold a few that day... and the product "seemed perfect" for the price. But they lied, or "made a mistake".

And a big purpose of this complaint to Future Shop is to have them taking a closer look to their sales guys, so they wont' set up these cons to foul customers any longer.
I'm sure there are tons of consumers that are much less cautious and knowledgeable than I am.

Seriously, there's no way we can know if this was a set up or an honest mistake, it wasn't that honest too me if I look at how different they are during and after the sell. They were so aware of the 2 different series after they are sold out with this product, but not when they were selling it? And that all managers are gone when I need them? And the manager also lied to me that their guy is not there so we couldn't solve the issue right away?
And when i went back to Arun, he didn't even had to ask if I got an A or B series, but already knew that mine wasn't 240hz. While the manager on the phone would at least ask which series it is, as this should be naturally the first concern. Does that mean Arun knew well it was a 120hz at the time he sold, but lied that it's a 240hz? Cause really if I were my Fiancee, or like my parents, I'd never found out that I got tricked after the purchase. I was lucky because I paid attention to the stand, and happened to google it up later.

And what pissed me off more is, when i ask for a deal, they are so passionate to talk to their manager. But when I need to complain, all managers are absent?

They are just really dishonest, or really unorganized. Either way, it's good to let you guys know, and have their head company to fix it.

:)
-------------------------------------
UPDATE: A girl from future shop emailed me saying that she'll guarantee that i'd get a satisfactory resolution. And asked for more of my personal information and date of incident.

I received the later few hours after i filed a complaint to them.

:)

When I was in FS and asked rep which one is better between two product(i wrote the product number on my paper),they pointed to third one and said that is better. I thought he meant one of two products I asked,then I bought and fortunately,I didn't open and found something wrong,but still,I had to take it and return to FS.

[chshwong]

Future Shop never got back to me.

Finally, I tried my luck with the great Ellen Roseman, this morning.

HOLY COW!!!! she responded to me within 2 minutes.

Now, i just got a call from the store manager of future shop apologizing to me, and asked me to go visit him.
Seriously, that's amazing!!
Future Shop ignored me for weeks. It only took minutes for Ellen to respond, and hours to get something solved.

Anyway, what I really want to know is,
is there somewhere in this forum, that presents Ellen Roseman?

I think she deserves a tab up there. Maybe after "Home" and before "Deals" tab.

:)

[ferkel]

No extended warranty? You're playing with fire :cheesygri

[oasis100]

Dealing with FS sales people is like buying a used car.

[jimmy-j]

Future Shop never got back to me.

Finally, I tried my luck with the great Ellen Roseman, this morning.

HOLY COW!!!! she responded to me within 2 minutes.

Now, i just got a call from the store manager of future shop apologizing to me, and asked me to go visit him.
Seriously, that's amazing!!
Future Shop ignored me for weeks. It only took minutes for Ellen to respond, and hours to get something solved.

Anyway, what I really want to know is,
is there somewhere in this forum, that presents Ellen Roseman?

I think she deserves a tab up there. Maybe after "Home" and before "Deals" tab.

:)


wow that's great to hear!

[snufkyn]

let us know how it went with the *cough* PR *cough* manager at FS... this sounds like a heinous crime...

what they've done to you is basically tell you they will trade you 2 ten dollar bills for your $20 bill; but somehow in the end you found out the 2 bills you got were only five dollar bills :(

its the salesperson's fault to play these little games with you and FS' fault to ignore your claims but i kind of agree with holeymoley, its your fault for letting them almost get away with it, well, lesson learned, hopefully FS will be smart enough to compensate you in some way.

[noob666]

Future Shop never got back to me.

Finally, I tried my luck with the great Ellen Roseman, this morning.

HOLY COW!!!! she responded to me within 2 minutes.

Now, i just got a call from the store manager of future shop apologizing to me, and asked me to go visit him.
Seriously, that's amazing!!
Future Shop ignored me for weeks. It only took minutes for Ellen to respond, and hours to get something solved.

Anyway, what I really want to know is,
is there somewhere in this forum, that presents Ellen Roseman?

I think she deserves a tab up there. Maybe after "Home" and before "Deals" tab.

:)


glad to hear that

unless it's a price error or something dirt cheap, i would avoid FS / BB

[zoro69]

its the same ways with piles of stores, couldn't care less until their is the threat of bad publicity. She's covered FS many times and made them look terrible. Them and the other regular culprits on her blog, Bell, Sears, Gas resellers, can't jump fast enough to fix it when shes involved.

[zzz3]

Future Shop never got back to me.

Finally, I tried my luck with the great Ellen Roseman, this morning.

HOLY COW!!!! she responded to me within 2 minutes.

Now, i just got a call from the store manager of future shop apologizing to me, and asked me to go visit him.
Seriously, that's amazing!!
Future Shop ignored me for weeks. It only took minutes for Ellen to respond, and hours to get something solved.

Anyway, what I really want to know is,
is there somewhere in this forum, that presents Ellen Roseman?

I think she deserves a tab up there. Maybe after "Home" and before "Deals" tab.

:)

its sad that FS and many other companies nowadays refuse to take action unless threatened with bad publicity.

[Sheex]

Wow this is just terrible, they pulled the old "bait and switch" sales routine with you. Reading this i kind of think they planned it, or it's a regular routine they pull over at that store.

Customer is interested in a tv, they bring out the "last" model of a "much better" tv and try to get you to "upgrade". I can tell you this is common practice in sales, and if you aren't paying attention you can get really scammed. So like the op said be aware.

Also if you have time and want to have some fun, research a product extensively before you are going to buy it then pretend you don't know anything about it. Have them jump through hoops (lies) to convince you of your purchase and when you are about to "complete" the sale call them out on their lie's. It's alot of fun, i've done it a few times when confirming purchases for my sisters.

I'm glad to see you are getting everything resolved, sucks that you had to go to an outside source, but at least something is happening.

[Nikita]

Future Shop never got back to me.

Finally, I tried my luck with the great Ellen Roseman, this morning.

HOLY COW!!!! she responded to me within 2 minutes.

Now, i just got a call from the store manager of future shop apologizing to me, and asked me to go visit him.
Seriously, that's amazing!!
Future Shop ignored me for weeks. It only took minutes for Ellen to respond, and hours to get something solved.

Anyway, what I really want to know is,
is there somewhere in this forum, that presents Ellen Roseman?
I think she deserves a tab up there. Maybe after "Home" and before "Deals" tab.

:)

What an excellent idea, maybe a sticky in the scams forum or in this very forum where most people post their complaints.

I've said it before and I'll say it again...Ellen Roseman rocks!

Congrats OP, smart move calling Ellen. Since she helped me when my mom got scammed by both Universal Energy and Ontario Energy Savings, I've become a huge fan of hers and now read her column regularly. It amazes me that in addition to her writing work she's so willing go over and above to help consumers. She has Ralph Nader beat by miiiiillllles...lol!

[Longobongo]

Arun continued the selling for this product. He confirmed that it's Brand New, that it's a 46" Samsung LCD of 700s series @ 240hz, and that it's a really good price at only $1700. He told me with lots of passion (well hired). That got me interested as I know something like that should cost around 2k up.

Finally, after spending 1 hour at his computer to get my info, talking to his manager and making my Future Shop card, i got nothing but just a $35 off my admin fee. Since Arun was nice, and that it was a really long day, I just bought it.


Not much to fault you here except doing additional checks beforehand instead of purchasing on a whim based on what a CSR tells you. Honestly, I hardly believe much of what they say and if you did your homework, you've probably known more about the television than he would. When I shopped around for my television, I looked at the models, saw the ones that I like both from a hands-ons as well as fitting in my budget. Once I was certain about the model, I just walk into several stores and play the PM game until I got the right price, no need to waste time asking useless questions to a CSR.

Granted the CSRs gave you incorrect information so your mistake was trusting the Heartland FS. I've been there several times and from my experience from that store, the Home Theatre CSR are about the worst scumbags with the computer section a close second. Sorry for the harsh words but the people in this section are like cars salesmen bad. They'll hound you once you walk around, flash a fake smile, start up friendly conversation, and won't let you go unless you force your way out. I know that wasn't in your case, but many are just flat out rude. My point is that its pointless to be buddy buddy with these guys.

Feel bad for your situation but you lost nothing but a few days of frustration.

[Saibot]

i almost never buy from future shop or best buy

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Future_Shop
Store's lifetime rating
2.65/10

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Best_Buy
Store's lifetime rarting
2.01/10

I only buy from them if i absolutely need something immediately and i can pick it up in-store within 5 min.

[brittlebain]

thats commisioned sales people for you........

[evanx]

I have been to the Heartland FS and I didn't know it was that bad. I'm gonna stay well away from them now.

[grego9198]

thats commisioned sales people for you........

Not all commissioned sales people are like this it really depends on the person, some people actually try and help out their customers.

OP: I hope you get this mess sorted out, it's too bad you had to go to a 3rd person to get a resolution.

[GreyingJay]

Have them jump through hoops (lies) to convince you of your purchase and when you are about to "complete" the sale call them out on their lie's. It's alot of fun, i've done it a few times when confirming purchases for my sisters.

You and I apparently have different definitions of "fun", that kind of crap makes me weary and depressed :mad:

I don't do it intentionally but I always try to research a product first, read the reviews, and then once I've narrowed my choice down to a few models, then I go into the store to look at them. Very rarely have I ever encountered a salesperson who knows their stuff, sometimes the game is to see how long it takes to talk to them before they spout a mistruth and I realize they don't have a clue.

It was the same when I was shopping for cars. I remember looking at the Toyota Matrix and Pontiac Vibe, and each dealership would tell me that their version was way better than the other guy's. It's the same car!