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Read Before Shopping At Target Ever Again
Don't Buy Extended Warranty At Target-It's A Scam!
Return Policy Reminders
Target has over 250 complaints on this website alone and I'm adding mine
bad return policy
Production of pro-gay t-shirts
Up and Up Nasal Strips Large - Not Worth Paying Less For
Buyer Beware
Target is sending a message to America seasonal workers, "Don't take off time for your deceased child's funeral"
Target SUCKS
-- Go To Page 2 ->>
Read Before Shopping At Target Ever Again
Posted by Happyhita1 on 04/24/2013
CINCINNATI, OHIO -- I bought a bike from Target on the very east side of Cincinnati, OH late night on a Friday since I was going on a bike ride the next day. I was told by the sales person that "the bike is returnable if there is anything wrong with it".
I took the bike directly home (in my car), tags still on it, never ridden. Once home, I tried to adjust the seat and make sure the bike was good to go for the next morning to go on my ride. The seat would not stay up or remain still at all. The latch or something was definitely defective.
I called the store first thing Saturday morning and was told no refunds, no exchanges, and that they could have a bike technician look at it next week to see if they could fix it. Their bike was defective and I was stuck with it...a bike that still had the tags on it. It turned out to be an all day battle back and forth with two unprofessional Managers who could have cared less about taking care of a customer. They both refused to even give me their Corporate phone number?.
They had another bike in the store and STILL refused to exchange their defective brand new bike out that I JUST bought that had not even touched the ground yet,.I found the Corporate number, talked to a Supervisor and she told me as long as the bike had not been ridden I could get a refund, exchange or repair,. SO, these 2 managers put me through heck for an entire day, I missed my bike trip, and they lied hence losing a long time customer (me)/. All they had to do was trade the bike out for me and they refused'. After this horrible incident, I have done some research about Target and it is not good'.It turns out, they do not support our military, they are very shady on returns and so many customers have been treated horribly..
I will NEVER shop at Target again and I will be sure to tell the bike story to everyone that I can:.Shame on you Target.
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Posted by d on 2013-04-24:
what does the policy on your receipt say?
Posted by trmn8r on 2013-04-24:
I've never heard that Target doesn't "support" our military. As for returns, the garden variety return goes without a hitch. The sticking point in this case is this is almost like an opened product to management if there is no box. There appears to be no exclusion in the Target policy for bicycles. I think your main complaint is you couldn't return a brand new bike that broke when you attempted to adjust the seat.
I can understand both sides here, but given that the bike is brand new I believe management should take it back as long as there is no evidence that the broken part was abused.
Posted by johnnyappleseed on 2013-04-24:
This is the same I hear often. They claim to have a great return policy, but will debate and refuse a valid return. Walmart would never do such a thing. Not sure how they are still in business.
Posted by andbran on 2013-04-25:
i have rarely had any problems returning anything to target. i once returned a TV no issues. as i see it the problem is the manager is just being an ass.
Posted by nikalseyn on 2013-04-25:
I do not understand how you can claim Target does not support the military. Being in or having been in, the military has nothing to do with your situation. I have never had a problem returning anything to Target, but that's just my experience.
Posted by Chrissiann on 2013-05-09:
Thank you for posting. I too will avoid them. I do not like when big corporations try to screw the very people who made them big and who keep them in business -- the customers. I say, when they get that big and bad, it is time to let them collapse due to no customers and no support.
Posted by LRP on 2013-05-09:
I love target, have never, ever had a problem with a return. And I return lots!! Which target is this? I live in Atlanta.
Posted by Anne, Manchester, MD, on 2013-05-09:
Target is the store I go to when no other store in our entire county has the product I am looking to purchase. I certainly don't purchase anything that is electrical and certainly nothing over $10.00. I once purchased a duffel bag for a short trip I was taking. I failed to go over it in the store, and 2 days later when I was starting to pack for my trip, I noticed that the zipper was broken. All the tags were still on as well as the stuffing in the bag. The store refused to exchange it or refund it, and said it had to be returned to the manufacturer by me, at my cost, and wait and see what they wanted to do. Come on, it was brand new, tags still on, I had my receipt, and my trip was the next day. Here is what I did: sorry, but true. I went to another Target store just outside my county. I purchased another duffel bag exactly like the one that I tried to return. I then walked out to my car, dropped off the new bag and picked up the defective one. I then took the defective bag and my new receipt to the return counter and said that I was returning it because a family member had already purchased one. The took the defective bag and gave me a refund on the spot, and I went on my trip with the new duffel bag. Stores like Target force consumers to take measures they wouldn't normally take, and as long as you are not stealing, everything worked out. I have never shopped in Target again. When you can't trust the store to back the goods they are selling as well as to make the shopping experience pleasant, consumers start shopping somewhere else. In the past I have witnessed consumers getting so angry over their return policy that I thought the police were going to be called. I shop at Kohl's and Walmart and mainly for their return policy. I might purchase scotch tape at Walmart but that is as far as I will go, and only if every other store in our county is sold out. Take your business where the consumers are appreciated and welcomed, unlike Target.
Posted by cajun on 2013-05-09:
I have never had a problem returning merchandise at Target--could it have been your attitude?
Posted by dzeldaz on 2013-05-10:
@Cajun More likely, it was the manager's attitude. Different stores, different manager's, different "policies". A customer can start off very calm and polite. An insane manager can ruin it all. A little power goes a long way. I had a problem at Kohl's and called corporate from the store's phone. Gee, problem solved. Some managers and sales people forget there is such an thing as customer service. I can speak about it as I was in retail. Help someone, they will return
Posted by dzeldaz on 2013-05-10:
Check Snopes on the military issue. The only negative that might be close to military is that the Salvation Army is not allowed to solicit. Those are the types of issues that should be checked prior to stating as fact.
Posted by Jerry on 2013-05-12:
I live in middle Tennessee and have been a Target customer for decades. I have always found their return policies to be fair and generous. I have never had a problem returning an item. I agree with other responders here that you just ran into a bad manager,
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Don't Buy Extended Warranty At Target-It's A Scam!
Posted by LIZCASTELLANOS332 on 07/12/2011
I purchased a Nintendo DSI from Target in August 2009. The cashier asked if I would like to buy and extended warranty? He said if the device broke, I could get it replaced. It would be covered for 3 years. I bought the warranty, because my son's Nintendo DS broke after he had it for about a year, and Nintendo wanted to charge 80 dollars to fix it. So it seemed like a good deal, 20 dollars, and they will replace it. Anyway, it broke, so I immediately call the 1-800 number on the warranty sticker. Everything sounds great, they are going to send me the shipping label, I send it in, and wait for it to be fixed. Well when the box came, my daughter was very excited to see her DSI, and ripped open the box. We were expecting it to be fixed....But I was very shocked to see a letter in the box. It said the warranty was voided due to liquid damage, and they referred me to a 1-800 number if I had any questions. I call the 1-800 number, and he said that the repair company reported "liquid damage," and the warranty only covers normal wear and tear. I told him that I was sure that it had not been damaged by liquid, but he said that the "strip" on the device indicated there was liquid damage, so therefore there was nothing I could do.
I am so angry, and I feel totally ripped off. I feel like the repair company and target are in a conspiracy to get rich off selling people warranties, when they know they will make excuses to "void" them and rip us off!! I will never buy anything at Target again!!
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Posted by madconsumer on 2011-07-12:
often times extended warranties are not worth it.
very helpful review!!
Posted by trmn8r on 2011-07-12:
I believe those liquid detection strips are commonly used, and I think it is a valid reason to invalidate a warranty. Is it stated in yours that liquid damage is not covered?
There is no way by reading this review to know if the the unit was subjected to a liquid. We also don't know if the report by the repair company is valid.
Posted by Churro on 2011-07-12:
This is such BS. Perhaps the strip is defective? Perhaps the repair facility exposed the thing to moisture. Perhaps high humidity caused it. Perhaps the strip hadn't indicated a darn thing and the company is just lying. What a total rip off.
As overpriced as these stupid electronics policies are and as much profit as Target makes on them you'd think they'd give the customer some leeway. Then again its Target and as is often stated, "Savvy consumers avoid Target. You should too!"
Totally agree Madconsumer extended warranties suck and excellent review!
Posted by Whiteduck on 2011-07-12:
Virtually ALL extended warranties are scams. And the moisture strips they use will set off on a humid day (which everyone has once in awhile) so they're pretty much guaranteed never to have to pay. Not sure Target is really the culprit though. More likely the scammy company that issued the warranty.
Posted by saj80 on 2011-07-12:
Churro is right on. I had a cell phone warranty claim denied for "moisture", which was total BS, and I believe it is an electronic industry scam to avoid warranty claims.
Posted by ChuhBaca on 2011-07-12:
Extended warranties are generally a waste of money. Most people never use it, and if they do, the terms and conditions cause them to reject the claim. They have pretty much found a way to say "Hey, would you like to give me an extra 10% just because?" and get away with it.
It's good to see a fellow consumer swearing off Target. I hope you can stick to it.
Posted by azRider on 2011-07-12:
I normally don't recommend extended warranties, but when people want them I always offer this advice:
1) make sure what type of warranty it is, that is does it cover just basic workmanship or does it include damage?
2) if your getting it on a device that is handheld, skip the extended warranty and get the accidental drop or damage insurance instead. this way if the device stops working from external issues like 'moisture', dirt, dropping it; they cover the repair or replacement.
3) if its a standalone device like a TV or DVD player, don't get the warranty. if these devices work for the first few weeks you own them, chances are they will work longer than the extended warranty is active. save the money in your account and if the device breaks in 1 or 2 years, use that account to pay for the repair.
4) lastly, most extended warranties have strict rules, be sure you read the contract before you buy it. if they won't let you read it before you buy it. then don't buy it. just put the money you would have used to buy it in a savings account a leave it there till you need it to fix the device.
5) if you buy a extended warranty, know what the contract says. read it.
Posted by Anonymous on 2011-07-12:
good review. thanks for the warning. the factory warranties are usually suffice.
Posted by ifeelyourpain on 2011-07-13:
My cell phone has a strip in it, and because my phone was on the bathroom counter during a shower, the strip showed water damage. It takes very little water to cause damage.
Posted by BlogShag on 2011-07-14:
Extended warranties are a wild card. Contact the attourney general or the BBB.
I've had extended warranties on computers which were somewhat of a scam. They really don't like troubleshooting problems with customers, even the smart ones. It's very costly. The warranties on my computer printer and blender turned out to be good investments
Posted by love them bassets on 2011-07-22:
Why did you even buy ANYTHING from Target? Their return policy is ludicrous and unheard of. No other store that I know of treats their customers like a criminal when they return something. I am not surprised that they have an extended warranty company which matches their store policies - horrible. On another note, I had a digital camera which just stopped working. I had an extended warranty and mailed the camera in. We were vacationing in Jamaica when the problem started. The extended warranty company said I had immersed the camera in water because I said I had been on vacation when it happened. As it turned out, it was because of the humidity but I stood my ground. Wal-Mart was contacted where I bought the camera, and they intervened for me. They gave me a new camera and handled the problem with the warranty company. Wal-Mart is great to deal with. Target will never get my business again. One other comment to add: too many wet hands while playing Nintendo and a few spilled drinks could have caused the water damage, and of course kids are not going to tell mom when they spill a drink. I believe your story though. Stay away from Target. They don't respect their customers and are rude people.
Posted by jktshff1 on 2011-07-22:
I enjoy shopping at the Target in our area and haven't had any problems.
Posted by Plai on 2011-07-22:
Between extended warranty and rebate, I don't know which one is worse than the other. Legalized scam! One thing for sure is that I don't buy extended warranty from any store. If it breaks, so be it.
Posted by HonestForSure on 2011-08-05:
I guess you weren't treated as one of their Guests.
Send your issue to the VP of Stores. She needs to hear this info. Copy your state's Division of Consumer Affairs.
This "service plan" is intended to cover "environmental" factors such as humidity, dust,etc. Your claim should not have been rejected. The company in question is NEW. Do they think you put the system in a bathtub? They ought to be ashamed of themselves.
Posted by CLChil3 on 2013-02-10:
I normally I do not purchase extended warranties, but the sales person told me when I purchased one for Wii U - that it covered everything from the date of purchase. All I had to do was bring it back and they would take care of it. After a month the item froze up. We took it back and they told us to go home and ship it to manufacturer ourselves. So not only did I pay for $40 for a warranty that does nothing, I also have to pay for shipping to and from to get it fixed.
Go to the target website and everyone write a review for these extended warranties. This company is telling their sales people to lie when they sale the warranty and then customer service says too bad - regardless of the problem. Everyone should also write your state Attorney General and the Better Business Bureau. Post on your facebook and email everyone you know. I understand there is Federal Government site to complain at too. I'm looking for that now.
As for me, I will never do business with target ever again.
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Return Policy Reminders
Posted by Tgtman on 12/29/2004
NEBRASKA -- I work at the service desk at Target, and let me remind you of Target's overall return policy.
If you have a receipt:
1. You may return anything within 90 days, along with all packaging. You will ALWAYS be given the price you paid (even though it says you will receive the current clearance price, this is just to 'scare' people off).
2. UNOPENED movies, CDs, DVDs, computer games, etc. can always be returned - no questions asked.
3. If anything from #2 is opened, you may only exchange it for an identical item (per federal copyright law -- same policy applies to all stores across the USA).
4. Some items may be subject to a 15% restocking fee, such as portable DVD players, etc. This will be waived if the item is defective or unopened.
5. Clothing without tags can be returned, as long as it doesn't show signs of wear.
1. We can try "receipt lookup" which scans your credit card, debit card, gift card, or check to determine if the item(s) was purchased within the last 90 days. If this is successful, you will get a refund in the amount you paid for the item(s).
2. If the merchandise is in our system, YOU WILL GET THE LOWEST SALE PRICE: a) if the item is between $0.01-$4.99 CASH REFUND b) between $5.00-$9.99 GIFT CARD REFUND c) above $10.00 GIFT EXCHANGE (See #3 below)
3. A GIFT EXCHANGE is done when an item is valued at above $10. This means that you will be required to exchange the item for any number of items that add up to the value of your return FROM THE SAME DEPARTMENT. So if you return a CD for $15, you can buy a $10 CD and $5 in batteries.
4. If the merchandise isn't in our system, we can give you the number to reach the manufacturer.
NOTE: If you have a GIFT RECEIPT, you will get a GIFT CARD refund.
Any questions, write a response and I will try to answer them under the name "TGTMAN".
Hope this helps! (This is really long, but is only about 1% of what I have to know!!!)
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Posted by tgtman on 2004-12-30:
Let me clarify... Point #2 and #3 under "NO RECEIPT" is only if you have no receipt, and Receipt Lookup is UNSUCCESSFUL. Sorry to be confusing!
Posted by Slimjim on 2004-12-30:
I think this is a very helpful post. Target return policies have been the subject here on more than one occasion. This is a good outline from an insider.
Posted by GuestsSuck! on 2005-04-05:
They have further updated this policy, so that without a receipt you can only get ONE item from the same department for equal or greater value.
Posted by tgtman on 2005-06-07:
ATTN: "Guestssuck"
At our store, we are "breaking the rules" with the return policy. I know our return policy grid (issued by headquarters, delivered to all Target stores) clearly states ITEM FOR ITEM (Ex: If you have no receipt and bring back a $40 toaster, you have to exchange it for ONE item in Small Electrics for $40 or greater). But our store arbitrarily allows guests to purchase multiple items because of this ludicrous policy. If it works like store credit, I WISH WE COULD JUST ISSUE A GIFT CARD! P.S. Sometimes our GSTL's or LOD's approve getting multiple items from different departments! It's crazy, I know.
Posted by MADCAT on 2006-06-15:
Target's Policy is therefore , really not policy, can work all different ways........what they do for one, they may not do for another, I see................
Posted by got twins? on 2007-10-19:
I just read your post and it was very informative. I was happy to finally have the confusion re: receiving full price refunds even though Target's stated policy is that you will only receive the current clearance price on things that have marked down in the interim. Question - does that apply to seasonal/holiday merchandise too? Someone told me that if I returned Christmas items after December 25th, even with a receipt, I would still only get the clearance price?
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Target has over 250 complaints on this website alone and I'm adding mine
Posted by SpeakingUp on 02/05/2006
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA -- I wish I'd known about this site before my experience at Target. I've just lost approximately between $40 and $50. Because I can't find a receipt for an item that turned out to be defective, and they no longer carry it, even though it was purchased about 6 weeks ago, they will do absolutely nothing for me. No refund, no exchange, no gift card, no store credit. Absolutely nothing-despite the fact that they agree that this product is defective. So be forewarned: if you lose your receipt, and you paid cash, they feel they have a right to keep your money and do nothing for you. I'm going to make sure every friend and family member hears about this. The item was a gift for my child, a bottle of Brittney Spear's perfume called "Curious" and the perfume literally soured. The perfume barely comes out anymore from the sprayer and the perfume itself has turned rancid. The color went from being clearish to dark yellow and went from smelling good to smelling putrid. This was a Christmas gift and she barely got to use any of it-the bottle is almost full and we get no compensation what so ever.
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Posted by anti-idiot on 2006-02-05:
You're complaint has no validity. Common sense would have told you to keep the receipt. A receipt is your only ticket for a refund most anywhere, not just Target. That's the whole concept behind loss prevention. How are they to know you didn't buy it somewhere else? Or had it for ages and decided to return it once it went bad? Or had just grabbed it off the shelf, trying to make some quick cash? Don't blame Target for something that's your own fault.
Posted by Sparticus on 2006-02-05:
I think I would side with the consumer on this one. Target can tell based on the UPC code whether or not the product was purchased there, regardless of a receipt IF it was purchased using a credit card. Regardless, Target should stand behind their products, and send the defective back to the manufacturer and replace it for the consumer.
Posted by spiderman2 on 2006-02-06:
This perfume on Target.com is $24 and the bottle is blue so how do you know the color changed? Try e-mailing Britney maybe she will care.
Posted by RVRBOATKNG on 2006-02-06:
Yipes! It sounds like the product must have mirrored the person it was named for. Short shelf life, soured and rancid. That would be the brit herself.
Posted by Hugh_Jorgen on 2006-02-06:
Sorry Sparticus - the UPC code does not vary from retailer to retailer - it is the same on every bottle of the same perfume. There is no way for Target to know where this was bought without a receipt. Target was most likely too generous with their returns for too long and they realized they were being taken adantage of. They tightened up their return requirements and now they are the bad guys?
Posted by yoke on 2006-02-06:
You could buy that perfume anywhere. I have even seen it at swap meets. Where is the poster getting the price. On Target.com it is priced between 14.99-29.99. I'm sure at Christmas it was even on sale at some point.
Posted by Dr. Jeecheroo on 2006-02-06:
I have to side with the customer on this one. A lot of retailers, including WAL-MART, will allow you to return merchandise without a receipt especially if it's defective. Face it, Target is a company for losers. Half the customers Target gets are people like siffer (a site regular here) who are just simply boycotting Wal-Mart.
Posted by Anonymous on 2006-02-06:
Sweep out the coils!
Posted by yoke on 2006-02-06:
Why not return it to Wal-Mart. Since you don't have a receipt or proof as to where you bought it maybe Wal-Mart will take it back (they did carry it). Alot of people say Wal-Mart will take anything back even without a receipt.
Posted by Dr. Jeecheroo on 2006-02-06:
And if Wal-Mart won't take it back, Bed Bath & Beyond WILL! I know a guy who returned a vaccum cleaner that was like three years old and used a bunch of times. Not only was he able to get a brand new replacement for it free of charge without a receipt on hand, but he had $200 store credit as well.
Posted by spiderman2 on 2006-02-06:
Yeah, and we all pay for crap like that in the end. Lovely.
Posted by Anonymous on 2006-02-06:
C'mon docjee?
Posted by just_say_no_to_stupidity on 2006-02-06:
So you're going to boycott Target because they refused to hand over their money to a random person with a unvalidated claim of purchase? Sounds to me like Target should boycott customers like you. Target should give you $40 in exchange for an old bottle of perfume that may or may not belong to them? Sounds like a fair exchange to me.
Posted by Dr. Jeecheroo on 2006-02-06:
Has anyone noticed the recent appearance of obnoxious nics like "anti-idiot" and "just say no to stupidity" who are obviously trolling the site?
Posted by Ms.Consumer on 2006-02-07:
Yes, I Dr. Jeech I have noticed "anti-idiot". Why can't "anti-idiot" just comment on the post without insulting the person?
Posted by tgtman on 2006-02-07:
Target has a 90-day return policy. It also says if an item is on clearance at the time of the return, the current refund value will be enforced. This would be $0 without a receipt, if it is discontinued. By the way, defective Health & Beauty products never get returned to the manufacturer. They get thrown away at the end of the night.
Posted by anti-idiot on 2006-02-07:
Yes, it's true, my comments are always negative. However, it is not because I disagree with everyone. I figure that an individual who I deem as intellectual doesn't need that extra little pat on the back. It's the other end of the spectrum that needs the help. If we are to smote idiocy once and for all, we must raise awareness. Until then, I will continue the crusade and keep the criticism coming.
Posted by tgtman on 2006-02-07:
Sorry, you are wrong. There are not 250 complaints!!! There are 74 posts -- some are positive, some are informative, and some are complaints. 250! You were way off.
Posted by just_say_no_to_stupidity on 2006-02-07:
I'm a troller? Curses on me for having an opinion! Why bother with you people anyway? Maybe I'll spare your feelings, sweetheart, and stick to thwarting idiocy face to face.
Posted by Ms.Consumer on 2006-02-08:
looks like anti-idiot can dish it out, but can't take it. ha ha
Posted by anti-idiot on 2006-02-08:
I can't take it? If by "it" you are referring to stupidity, you're absolutley right.
Posted by Mooie on 2006-03-27:
OK, first of all, you bought a bottle of "Curious" by Britney Spears for your child?? I hope your child is AT LEAST in her teens!
Secondly, Target has a 90 day return policy. If you have a return without your receipt, they are one of the FEW companies who has the ability to look up the purchase if you paid by check, credit or debit card. If you paid cash, you;re out of luck because there is no way to trace it. You will need to return the item to the SAME STORE it was bought from for this to work, though - other stores will not have the same info in their systems.
If that doesn't work, the address of the manufacturer is on the bottom of the bottle or on the box it came in - take it up with them.
Keep in mind, Target did not make the perfume, they merely sold it - The manufacturer is responsible here, not the store. Make sure you have your frustration "Targeted" at the correct company!
Posted by Texmommie on 2006-05-22:
Sparticus - Holy cow! Logic at work!!!!!!!!!! You rock!
Posted by Shelld on 2006-08-31:
I was given Britney Spears perfume Curious as a gift for Christmas. I have had no use out of it as it has turned yellow and the perfume leaks from the top of it!
I have taken it back to the shop who told me to return it to EA Manufatuers but the address that I have been given for them is wrong. So i am out of pocket £50. Its a joke!!!!
Posted by mattfast1 on 2006-09-18:
Keep. Your. Reciept.
If you don't do that, do yourself a favor and purchase items with a traceable form of payment - the Service Desk in any Target store can return anything you bought within the last 90 days from ANY Target. Simply hand over your credit/debit/gift card, check (reader will not mark up check, so you can still use it after doing the lookup), or if it's an item with an individual unique serial number like an iTunes card or a PlayStation, that can serve as proof of purchase. If you used a traveler's check or cash, you're SOL. It's a simple policy, and a handy program which is unique to Target.
Posted by Palmdale Girl on 2007-06-28:
I have to tell you I am pretty mad and that is putting it mildly about the Britney Spears Curious Perfume. My daughter had her bottle along with her various other bottles of perfume on a mirrored vanity tray on her beautiful cherry wood dresser. The blue ball and fringe that hangs from the atomizer had gotten pushed off the tray and were sitting on the dresser. When she went to pick it up it had leaked all down the atomizer and stuck to her dresser. The finish is destroyed, there is a permanent imprint of the atomizer ball and fringe on her dresser. The top where the ball comes out is all corroded and the perfume is nasty and rancid. This is a defect to be sure. My daughter told her friend to check hers and it was leaking also. We were at Gottschalks today and at their Curious perfume display their bottle was leaking and corroded the same way. We told the sales girl and she pulled it out. I think someone should come out and repair my daughters dresser. Thanks Britney for a defective product!
Posted by Anonymous on 2007-06-28:
Well, that's not good.
Posted by s.s.d.d. on 2007-10-01:
I just wanted to add that the same exact thing happened to my Britney Spears perfume. It really is rather ridiculous and I'm not sure who to complain to. I suppos I should have realized that nothing quality can come from Britney Spears but it does smell good.
Posted by TargetVictim on 2008-02-27:
In most cases I wouldn't have much sympathy for someone who had no receipt to present and really no basis for a complaint other than poor customer service, however the more negative posts about Target that flood the Internet the better. This company doesn't deserve a dime of anyone's hard-earned money. "tgtman" I can't help but notice you had nothing to say about how Target stole money from my account and arrogantly kissed me off despite the fact I had a receipt, a printout of my checking account clearly showing a duplicate debit, and a bank representative on the other end of my cell phone waiting to speak with him about it. And let's not forget how he threw three pages of other people's credit card numbers, names and transactions at me and left me standing there. There may be people on this site who don't read return policies and foolishly believe that big corporate pigs like Target actually value their customers enough to provide excellent customer service, but my experience borders on criminal intent. Go ahead, try to defend Target's position. The more I post the more people like me have come out to share their similar stories. I love the Internet.
Posted by DivaB on 2009-12-02:
Perhaps your receipt will show up. My fingers are crossed for you. Isn't there a bar code on the item. Of course who am I to talk. I had the receipt and had a hell of a time returning shoes, until I was out of town and tried a different Target, and then had no problems.
I'm sorry
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bad return policy
Posted by on 12/22/2003
MISSOURI -- My daughter saved her allowance for months to buy a Barbie karaoke machine. We bought the toy, came home, and the eject button on the machine did not work so she could not put any tapes in it. Not a big deal, right? We'll just take it back and get another..
I went to return the karaoke machine to the store (receipt in hand), told them the problem, and they refused to let me exchange it or give me my money back. They tried to "fix" the eject button to no avail, but they wouldn't exchange it because it was "used" and the receipt clearly states that returns must be unused. The receipt was dated for the day before and I guess if you take something out of the package and try to use it, it therefore becomes "used".
This was a pretty good lesson for me and the reason I am writing this is to let other people know how terrible their return policy is. DO NOT buy anything that Target could possibly be defective because once you open it, it is "used" and therefore, not returnable. You certainly couldn't tell by looking at it that is was defective.
I was truly blown away by the whole experience. Protect yourself and spend your hard earned money at a store that actually treats their customers like people rather than a dollar bill. They made me feel like I was a con artist trying to get away with something. They really should put a sign on the entrance door..."Buy at your own risk"
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Posted by Anonymous on 2003-12-23:
That return policy is to protect our gross margin. Too many returns affects our bottom line and can cut into my bonus for best revenue. Translation for the consumer....tough titty.
Posted by Anonymous on 2003-12-24:
You just showed a perfect example for Target. Let's see how it cuts into your bonus when people stop shopping there. You'll lose a lot more $$ from lost sales than from legitamate returns.
Posted by Anonymous on 2003-12-24:
your complaint is a bit irritating; if all the facts you stated are true, you have indeed been wronged by this particular Target store.A product must do what it is intended to. If, for example, your daughter had recieved 2 of these items and simply wanted to return one because it wasn't needed, the store does NOT legally have to take it back. But if a product does not do what a company/store represents it will do, it must be accepted back for return. Speak with a manager; let them know it's not just the money, but the principle involved. That to teach your daughter to protect herself against unscrupulous persons/entities, if the transaction can't be handled to the customers satisfaction and legal rights, then the only alternative is to file for a date in small claims court. Be polite, and know you're in the right. Please follow through and set a good example for your daughter. Consumers have rights, too!
Posted by Anonymous on 2003-12-26:
If you dont like our return policy stay the hell out. Go to walmart and see if you get better customer service there. Ya jack-ass
Posted by Anonymous on 2003-12-29:
I think the consumer here is trying to warn people to stay the hell out of Target. I found it to be very informative. I would much rather go to wal-mart now.
Posted by Anonymous on 2003-12-30:
Actually, you do get much better customer service at Wal-Mart and the prices are way cheaper than Target!
Posted by Anonymous on 2004-01-05:
Sorry - I don't buy this. There is NO way Target or any other legitimate store is going to refuse to give money back - let alone an even exchange - for a defective product. Especially one purchased the day before! I'm not calling the person a liar but let's just say that I suspect that there is more to the story. I took a DVD player back close to the 3 month limit when it had a problem. It took me 2 minutes to get a credit on my charge card. The only question I was asked was whether I wanted a new one or a credit.
Posted by walmartangel on 2004-01-24:
Shop at WalMart. We won't give you a hard time about a defective problem. I feel for your daughter after saving up all that time, then getting a poor quality product. Target is not a friendly store when it comes to customers!!
Posted by walmartangel on 2004-01-24:
;ousy customer service attitude, target employee. We also get a bonus, but it is based on SALES, and you won't get them with attitudes like yours. We have a Target ready to open in March next door to us. I know we will win the most customers here!!
Posted by walmartangel on 2004-01-24:
target employee and the other jerk who called the customer a jack*** lets see who the bigger jack*** is when WALMART puts you out of business. It won't be our fault, either, it will be employees with rotten attitudes like yours. Thanks everyone for recommeding us. We DO give better customer services. and our prices are cheaper!!
Posted by Mad Eye Moody on 2004-02-09:
Ugh...Frustration...Listen Folks...Wal-mart and Target market to two totally different demographics - Wal-Mart CAN'T put Target out of business. The hicks can't afford to shop at Target, and the sensible working class WON'T shop at Wal-Mart. Additionally, Target is owned by Marshall Fields; thusly the people in America with the most money are going to be suporting Target indefinately, and the rednecks...who may not have as much money, but are obviously a larger population, will keep Wal-mart in business.
Posted by sharynsjust4fun on 2004-02-13:
I wanted to share my frustrating experience at Target. I had been a long term Target shopper. Ever since they opened in my area over ten years ago. I have been remodeling my house room by room. I started in the kitchen, which consisted of new dishes, ect being bought at Target. Next room, our guest bathroom. I bought all the decor from Target, including a corner armoire, new medicine cabinet, wall cabinet and so on. I spent in the area of $300.00. Needless to say, one of the larger cabinets was not going to fit. We never took it out of the box, you could just tell by looking. I had the receipt taped to the box. I went to exhange it for other items. As I carried the big bulky item into the store the receipt tore off. You can see were it was taped on, however I was told that without it there was nothing they could do. I understand them being cautious on returns, but this was a brand exclusive to them. I tried to see if they would accomidate me in any way. Restocking fee, in store credit what ever need be. I was there to spend more anyhow. No, they were not willing to comprimise what so ever. Because I paid cash, I was out of luck. I will not continue to patronize a store that is unwilling to accomidate their customer. I ended up going 2 stores down to Wal-Mart, and spending over $200.00 on new bedding items for my bedroom. That was money I had went to spend at Target. Also, as a result of them not being able to come to a comprimise, I will not go there as we continue to remodel our room, guest room, and other bathroom. I am also closing out my Tatget charge account this weekend when I get paid. After telling my fiance of what happened we will NOT be registering for gifts at Target. My one experience has easily cost them hundreds, if not thousands just from our registry. I have a choice, they are not they all mighty high and powerful. They should not have the sense that they only play on there terms. I choose to shop elsewhere for my items.
Posted by sharynsjust4fun on 2004-02-13:
I wanted to share my frustrating experience at Target. I had been a long term Target shopper. Ever since they opened in my area over ten years ago. I have been remodeling my house room by room. I started in the kitchen, which consisted of new dishes, ect being bought at Target. Next room, our guest bathroom. I bought all the decor from Target, including a corner armoire, new medicine cabinet, wall cabinet and so on. I spent in the area of $300.00. Needless to say, one of the larger cabinets was not going to fit. We never took it out of the box, you could just tell by looking. I had the receipt taped to the box. I went to exhange it for other items. As I carried the big bulky item into the store the receipt tore off. You can see were it was taped on, however I was told that without it there was nothing they could do. I understand them being cautious on returns, but this was a brand exclusive to them. I tried to see if they would accomidate me in any way. Restocking fee, in store credit what ever need be. I was there to spend more anyhow. No, they were not willing to comprimise what so ever. Because I paid cash, I was out of luck. I will not continue to patronize a store that is unwilling to accomidate their customer. I ended up going 2 stores down to Wal-Mart, and spending over $200.00 on new bedding items for my bedroom. That was money I had went to spend at Target. Also, as a result of them not being able to come to a comprimise, I will not go there as we continue to remodel our room, guest room, and other bathroom. I am also closing out my Tatget charge account this weekend when I get paid. After telling my fiance of what happened we will NOT be registering for gifts at Target. My one experience has easily cost them hundreds, if not thousands just from our registry. I have a choice, they are not they all mighty high and powerful. They should not have the sense that they only play on there terms. I choose to shop elsewhere for my items.
Posted by Zakk on 2004-04-27:
This story is just a little to arbitrary for me to buy. The product was broken, you had the receipt, from the day before, and you wanted an exchange. And with all of that, Target said no. Come on, are you sure you don't work for a competitor?
Posted by waxlips24 on 2004-05-14:
A similar thing happened to me. However, they were willing to exchange the item, they just wouldn't refund my money even though I had a receipt. Their excuse was that the item was used even though it wasn't...it was defective.
Posted by pakisardar on 2004-05-25:
There might have been a mistake at that target store, I have worked for target for several years, and have never seen a return or exchange rejected with a reciept, if the item is defective. You should have talked to the store manager, or should have gone to another target store, and should have filled one of the comment card for the store that rejected your return or exchange. And where the return policy goes, it has been toughened because the alot of consumers were abusing the policy. There are alot of stores that are easy on the return policy even with items with restocking fee like digital camera's.
Posted by tgtman on 2004-07-22:
I was just reading some comments about Target and I am stunned by your comments.
I'm not sure what Target you shop at, but I can assure you, and all other consumers, that this is not representative of Target's return policy. I work at Guest Services, and we have returned items all the time (even without the receipt). If a product is damaged, you have the right to exchange the item for the same item, or something of equal or greater value within the same department. In effect, without a receipt, you can return something past 90 days, if it is still in the system (Obviously, you can't return seasonal merchandise after a certain point, or a 5-year-old shirt that we no longer carry). However, you will be issued the LOWEST sale price the item was ever at without your receipt. This should make sense, because the company cannot prove you are not trying to make a quick buck by buying low and expecting a higher return.
I am personally sorry for your incident, it should have never happened, especially since you have a receipt. I would have definitely asked to see the leader-on-duty concerning this matter.
Posted by mermaidk3 on 2004-07-25:
tgtman is right. I don't buy your story - no Target would refuse a return on a defective item with a valid receipt. Quit trying to make stores look bad.
Posted by Trgtkay on 2004-08-23:
I have been an employee at Target for about two years now working at Guest Service. I must say this complaint isn't going over too well with me and I believe this guest left a significant part of the story out. Target allows returns or exchanges with a receipt dated within 90 days of purchase. Some items such as portable DVD players, Digital cameras, and other portable electronics can be subject to a 15% restocking fee (if the item is defected it is exempt from the restocking fee). Yes, on the back of Target's receipt it says "all returns and exchanges must be new, unused, and contain all original packaging..." However if the merchandise is defective and a dated receipt is present it can be exchanged or returned... These things like electronics can also be dealt with through the manufacture whose number is printed on the back of the receipt. Now if Movies, CD's, and video games are opened they can only be exchanged for the same item (the exchanged CD, video must be opened before leaving the store) this policy exists at Target because of Copyright Law (Now a days people can burn Cd's and such and return them... this policy/Law prevents that)
This Guest says that she had the receipt, the item was defective, and the Target store wouldn't return it... It sound as though that the receipt was expired, meaning the receipt is useless and cannot be used. To make it easy for guests on the top of the receipt below the Barcode the day it was purchased and the date when the receipt will expire is printed. Like many stores Target receives new merchandise and must clearance "old" merchandise out to make room. The Karaoke machine was probably clearance out of the system (basically meaning it is no longer carried it that store) At that point a return or exchange cannot be made because there is no way to put the item back into the system. Unfortunately Target is not Costco (another retailer that returns merchandise up to 5 years old… not to mention their system is completely different but I will not go into that on this comment) I believe 3 months is a reasonable time period in which merchandise can be returned. I know of many other stores like The Gap and Banana Republic that only allow returns and exchanges offer 14 days.
***Also if you lose your receipt Target offers Receipt Look up. If a purchase was made on a credit card, debit card, gift card, or Check by presenting that same card or a check from that account at any Target store within 90 days the receipt can be looked up. Pretty simple.
If you have any other questions regarding Target Returns of Exchanges go to Target.com and click the link at the bottom of the page or call a Target store near you.
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Production of pro-gay t-shirts
Posted by Maryann.kemmling on 06/02/2012
My husband and I have been a enthusiastic customers of Target since 1971. Now, I buy many toy and clothing items there for my grandchildren. I just learned about Target's production of pro-gay t-shirts to aid that cause.
Target will not receive any further business from me or my large extended family from this day forward as a result of the choice it made.
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Posted by Sparticus on 2012-06-02:
While I respect your opinion, I for one am proud of Target. They will be getting more of my business for their decision to support equal rights for all people.
Posted by dan gordon on 2012-06-02:
perhaps if all the straight people would just stop making gay babies this wouldn't be such a big deal?
Posted by trmn8r on 2012-06-02:
I personally think it is great that Target is forward thinking, though you have a right to your own opinion. I will be spending more of my $$$ and time shopping at Target and JCP and any other company that helps us move forward in respecting individual differences.
Outstanding comment, dan!
Posted by Anonymous on 2012-06-02:
What if they were selling anti-gay shirts? Would that be ok? Personally, I applaud Target for selling these shirts.
Posted by sabletaz on 2012-06-02:
I like all the comments so far....everybody should be treated the same.
Posted by Wes C on 2012-06-02:
Good for you for standing on your pruinciples OP. Many people talk the talk but don't walk the walk.
Posted by No pancakes? on 2012-06-02:
People who are secure in their own sexuality don't need to wear tee shirts or broadcast it. They do their own life without anyone's approval or disapproval. Simply because they are secure enough not to care.
I think it's very funny to have someone act all secure but their actions say otherwise.
Posted by Anonymous on 2012-06-02:
How are these reviews getting so many votes?
Posted by Wes C on 2012-06-02:
"How are these reviews getting so many votes?"
Well gee, apparently there are free thinking people capable of thinking for themselves who have a different opinion and agree with the Op, PC status quo notwithstanding.
Posted by Alain on 2012-06-02:
My guess would be that such a controversial subject attracts more interest, and more votes, than a more mundane post, Shorty. Why the 'helpful' votes? Perhaps because there are strong religious feelings involved? I really don't know since Target selling gay shirts doesn't bother me any more than them selling the shirts of an out of town football team.
Posted by DebtorBasher on 2012-06-02:
I don't like thongs that they sell...but instead of not shopping there anymore, I just don't by the thongs...and many people would like to thank me for that, I'm sure.
Posted by Anonymous on 2012-06-02:
Wes, so in other words, this world is still full of closed minded people?
Posted by Alain on 2012-06-02:
Shorty, the world is full of close minded people. It's an imperfect place.
Posted by Wes C on 2012-06-02:
More so every day LittleShorty. of course, everyone who does not embrace homosexuality MUST be close minded. That is the logic of close, small minded people.
Posted by trmn8r on 2012-06-02:
I can't see not "embracing" something people are coded for when they are born.
Posted by trmn8r on 2012-06-02:
It's interesting that relatively few of the free thinking people don't take the time to express an opinion, but spend enough time to click "helpful".
Posted by Wes C on 2012-06-02:
There is no proof of "coding", it is just one of the latest theories. We are born "coded" with base, animalistic behavior, we "unlearn" that as we develop and learn to restrain and refrain.
Posted by raven2010 on 2012-06-02:
It really wasnt that long ago that blacks had to sit at the back of the bus and women were not allowed to vote.
That nonsense was rooted in "religion" also.
Posted by ticia232 on 2012-06-02:
Wes, no one is saying that you have to embrace homosexuality, but at least embrace the people who perform it as HUMAN! They still deal with everything that we deal with everyday. Who they choose to love has no bearing on us. JUDGE NOT LEST YOU BE JUDGED!
Posted by lexophiliac on 2012-06-02:
I would contest those contentions raven. Denying women the right to vote had very little to do with religion and much to do with the notion that women were not suited to politics and that it would be too much for their delicate temperaments, and it was the Democrats who invented the Jim Crow laws.
Posted by Quizzy on 2012-06-02:
Bull ticia. That is exactly what homosexuals are asking, no, demanding. They are demanding that we accept their homosexuality and their homosexual lifestyle. Their deviant sexual lifestyle. No one is denying they are human, murderers, rapists, pedophiles, thieves, terrorists etc. are human too, and deal with what every human deals with everyday also.
Posted by trp2hevn on 2012-06-02:
So... I'm betting that the OP doesn't shop at JCPenney either. Pretty soon, we will all be back to making our own clothes and such as it seems that retailers are including everyone in their target demographics. I bet for those retailers, the money that gay people spend is just as good as the money straight people spend.
Posted by JISCal2 on 2012-06-02:
For your reading pleasure.
Posted by Alain on 2012-06-02:
Well, now, that does present a bit of a nightmare for Target. There are now some gays angry with their CEO and some straight folk angered with their product. None of this adds up to anything Jesus would like, but that's just my opinion.
Posted by JISCal2 on 2012-06-02:
God is probably shaking his head at all of the hate in the world... whether you're gay or straight.
Posted by DebtorBasher on 2012-06-02:
I agree John...your comment would be the perfect comment to end this thread with.
Posted by Quizzy on 2012-06-02:
It has nothing to do with hate.
Posted by andbran on 2012-06-03:
my turn. my favorite cousin is gay and would not want him any other way. i will still shop at Taarget
Posted by jktshff1 on 2012-06-03:
Wes, no proof of not coded either.
Posted by jktshff1 on 2012-06-03:
Posted by raven2010 on 2012-06-03:
I respect your opinion lexo--and I partially agree regarding women and politics. However, In Paul's letters to Corinth he basically denied women many rights. That "philosophy" trickled down through the centuries and still does to day, though no where near the extent it went in Paul's day.
Posted by lexophiliac on 2012-06-03:
raven - Interpretation of Scripture by man is done in 3 ways - literally, allegorically, and symbolically, the methods used varying contextually.
"Let your women keep silence in the churches" is difficult for many to interpret because Paul had previously spoken about women praying and prophesying in church. He writes that, "Women should not teach or speak in any way that causes disturbance in a church meeting. But we cannot dogmatically say that women did not and could not pray and/or prophesy in church meetings." This speaks to the apostle Paul being concerned about what was proper in the church meetings in the troubled Corinth church and rebukes the Corinthians for their pride beginning in verse 36.
Married women were not to interrupt the proceeding by asking questions. I & II Corinthians notes that Paul had already recognized a woman's right to pray and prophesy in the church. Therefore, the imposition of silence and forbidding women to speak is only in the context of interrupting the proceedings by asking questions of their husbands. Asking questions should be done at home. Of note; married Corinthian women in the 1st century were not well educated. Also note that the expressions they were not permitted to speak (v. 34) and that it was shameful for a woman to speak in church (v. 35) is limited in application and refers only to the interrupting of proceedings.
Posted by ticia232 on 2012-06-04:
quizzy, have you asked ALL of the homosexuals? By your reasoning since I'm black and hispanic, (some people have called me a spigger.) that I should be on welfare and on my 10th child with different fathers.
I am so glad that my father taught me "JUDGE NOT, LEST YOU BE JUDGED!" due to all the problems he went through after being an delinquent when he was young and changing his life around because his mother had a bad injury in a car accident.
Posted by Prince Caesar on 2012-06-11:
I wonder if these people are from the group 1 million moms. Its 2012. The last time people were so outraged similar to this is when interracial marriages became legal. I dont understand why people have to try to segragate a group of people simply because they live their lives the way they want. The last time I checked we lived in a democracy, not a theocracy. I am not a christian and do not believe in their hateful ways.
Posted by prince caesar on 2012-06-11:
and since these religions normally have so much biggotry added to them, maybe soe of you should look at this. http://www.upworthy.com/the-top-8-ways-to-be-traditionally-married-according-to-the-bible?g=2 and c=la2
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Up and Up Nasal Strips Large - Not Worth Paying Less For
Posted by PATRICKRANSOMJR on 02/10/2013
Yeah there was a $3.00 price difference in the generic and brand name Breath Right Strips. They are low quality, they last about 2 hours before they peel off. The quality is horrible.
Spend the little more money. If you don't you will regret it. You do not get the sleep from the generics. Breath Right Strips are worth the extra money because it sucks not being able to breathe right.
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Posted by madconsumer on 2013-02-10:
very helpful review, and voted as such!!
Posted by trmn8r on 2013-02-10:
Good information.
Store brands, *whatever* store it is, are uneven in their replication of the brand name version. I love Wegmans, and they have some excellent store branded items (their breads, frozen pizza are fantastic), but they have gone overboard with offering items to compete with brands, and many simply do not measure up. I still like shopping there, but when I can't get the brand version because Wegmans replaced it with their own, it grinds my engine big time.
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Buyer Beware
Posted by Peachpearl on 03/15/2005
I recently attempted to return a $15 toy with an expired receipt. I'm shocked and disgusted with how I was treated. It took over an hour and two managers to allow me to exchange the toy for something in the same department, which ended up costing me $18 more. The employees and managers were rude and very short with us. My husband and I felt like criminals and were reprimanded and treated as though we were trying to get one over on Target. We were told that I could not return or exchange the item using my driver's license because I had done so three times prior.
At no point when I was making those prior returns did a Target employee tell me that I could only do so three times. No one, even the managers, could show us where this policy is written so that the consumer can make informed decisions before shopping at Target. I guess if someone buys me a gift within the next year I'm SOL if I need to exchange it. The policy about only being able to exchange the item for something in the same department was also not printed anywhere. I called the 1-800 number when I got home and got nowhere. The representatives were rude and sarcastic and had no more information than the in-store employees.
I was told that they had never received a complaint like mine before and was told that they could not understand why I would be upset. I was told that upon receiving gifts from Target, that if the gift giver does not give me a gift receipt I should tell them that giving a gift receipt is "easy enough" and demand that they give it to me. Needless to say I won't be going anywhere near a Target any time soon and will never buy anyone a gift from there. It's fine if Target wants to make their customers jump through hoops of fire to return something, but they should be required to display the return policy in it's entirety before people buy things. That way educated consumers can kindly reshelve their items and purchase them from somewhere else.
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Posted by you r stupid on 2005-03-15:
Well their receipts don't expire for 90 days if you can't return within 90 days shame on you and shut up and be glad they did anything for you.
Posted by chris75056_1 on 2005-03-16:
Regardless of whether you knew every little restriction in Target's return policy, the back of the receipt clearly states that you've got 90 days to exchange something or get a refund. As far as this particular issue is concerned, any complaint you have beyond that is inconsequential.
They didn't have to give you squat.
Posted by LegalCollector on 2005-03-16:
Its 90 days just about anywhere. It should not take that long to return an item, sorry.
Posted by toby2b2 on 2005-03-19:
Did you know that Target is a french owned company? You should not even support their business. They wouldn't support us in Iraq!
Posted by NikkiKitty on 2005-03-19:
As a former guest services representative at a retail store much like Target, I can understand your situation.
I do believe that you also have to consider the situation most retailers find themselves in in this day and age where anyone is suspect, and theft and fraud are rampant. Retailers must do everything they can to protect themselves as well as their customers.
You see, the receipt is considered documentation proof positive that the item that is being presented for return was paid for, how it was paid for, and when it was purchased. Without that document, all the store has to go on is the word of the customer. Unfortunately, that is not always enough.
At the store at which I worked, driver's licenses were used to track returns a customer has presented without a receipt. Once a customer had made so many returns without a receipt, a red flag was raised at the corporate office where the return history was reviewed by a supervisor in the returns department. That employee was responsible for deciding what the requirement for further returns or exchanges should be for that individual.
I also agree that the tactics used in your case needed some tweaking. If I was presented with a return without a receipt from a guest and the computer prompted me to get a manager involved (only managers were allowed to refuse to reimburse a customer), my manager may advise the customer that from that time on, they would absolutely need to present a receipt before they would be able to receive any more refunds or exchanges. That notification would also be documented and would be visible the next time that customer's return history was accessed.
Unfortunately, it is not common practice for gift givers to include a gift receipt. This is due to many factors, not the least of which is that the retail industry as a whole needs to educate the public on basic return policy rules. Many people also do not include gift receipts, speaking mainly during the Holidays, but also any other time, because of the rush and bustle, and it is just one more detail to remember or one more thing to go to trouble to do.
Not to discount the fact that the store's employees could have definitely handled the situation better, you also need to consider how your tone affected the process of your experience. Speaking from experience, approaching the store employees or managers right away with an unpleasant disposition will not make the negotiation over an exchange easier for anyone.
Posted by child4eva on 2005-03-19:
Sorry for your problem but TY for the up and up! After reading other comments on Target's return policies, i will NOT be seeking them out as a store and surely will not buy anything that might possible need returning!
Posted by carglod on 2005-03-20:
Looks like you return items frequently. Many stores have recently begun a policy of keeping track of returns and do not allow any further returns when there's a pattern. As for Target being a owned by a French corporation, that's an untrue internet rumor started by a malcontent. Target is owned by Dayton Hudson, a corporation located in Ohio.
Posted by tgtman on 2005-03-20:
You wondered where it said you have three times to return? Interpret it from this clause "A RECEIPT DATED WITHIN 90 DAYS IS REQUIRED FOR ALL RETURNS & EXCHANGES" This is on every receipt, every checkout lane, the service desk. Are you blind?
Posted by tgtman on 2005-03-20:
You are only limited to three returns per year WITHOUT A RECEIPT. If you have a receipt, you can enjoy unlimited returns. Target offers receipt lookup, which scans your check/chargecard/debit for your receipt over the last 90 days. This doesn't count against your limit of 3 returns! No receipt necessary if "Receipt Lookup" is successful!
Posted by GuestsSuck! on 2005-04-05:
Since Target's policy is "A receipt dated within 90 days is REQUIRED for all returns and exchanges." You were done a favor. Obviously, you had to return 3 things previously without a receipt or else you wouldn't be in this mess. KEEP YOUR RECEIPTS! I don't care if they were gifts, ask for the receipts!
You have to be mor responsible than that. You acted like a child, threw a temper tantrum, and still had to exchange it. You are the epitome of an awful customer. I doubt it took an hour and a half, but if it did, it's not Target's fault. It's YOUR time, YOU chose to spend it at Target. If you would have dealt with me like this, I would've called security, and you wouldn't have been able to do anything.
Please do everyone at Target a favor and never go back.
Posted by elz on 2005-08-28:
Stores have rules and regulations believe it or not, and Target owes you nothing as far as I know. You waited too long to return the item...it was only $15, too bad so sad. As far as Target being a French company...who the heck cares? We get our products from hundreds of countries. And half the country now disagrees with how Iraq's being handled so you can stop buying products from anyone who disagrees with the president...which would be hard to do.
Posted by Kronenberg on 2005-10-04:
I had the same problem with Target, except mine was within 90 days I just had no receipt. I have been made to feel like a criminal in Target several times now, one time was when the cashier short changed me and tried to give me a gift receipt. I called for the manager right away, and guess who was treated like the criminal?? They even handled my baby without my consent, taking her from my husbands hands. I know others who have been made to feel like scam artists in their store,and I know most of the people who defend Target are employee groupies, who seem to be a pretty tight knit group. Target wont be getting my business!
Posted by Diedles on 2006-11-07:
Target - Owned by Target Corporation of Minneapolis, MN formerly Dayton Hudson Corporation of, get this, Minneapolis, MN
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Target is sending a message to America seasonal workers, "Don't take off time for your deceased child's funeral"
Posted by HereInBakersfield.com on 01/26/2006
BAKERSFIELD, CALIFORNIA -- Target is sending a message to America seasonal workers, "Don't take off time for your deceased child's funeral". Today, I was contacted by a friend of mine, the mother of the Target employee. She wanted some advice on getting the story out, exposed, to as many possible shoppers @ Target, people that may consider employee at Target, and
people who may make a statement to yet another American corporation that failed it's employees.
Before you read her letter, if this was a company in Japan, this would not of happened. Caring for their employees is a high priority because the employees contribute to the profit, and often, the employees help improve the corporation status among the population.
This is not Japan, this is America. Target is the sixth largest retailer in the United States behind Wal-Mart. This story will make you wonder why this happened, and possibly take some kind of action, if you can. This is called viral marketing, this is blogging power in action, this is America and we all should care. This could be your son or daughter in this story. Visit http://chatterbug63.blogspot.com/2006/01/target-strikes-again.html and post some comments please.
Joseph Damiano
In November, our 20 yr. old son got hired on with Target Distribution Center in Shafter, CA as a seasonal employee. Our family was in the middle of our son & daughter-in-law going through a high risk pregnancy...so the job was a blessing.
Our 1st granddaughter was given hope by some in the medical field. Our daughter-in-law faced bed rest, disability from work, and hospital stays. Later a grim sentence of no hope for survival for our granddaughter at Kaiser Hospital in Woodland Hills. We had many "Prayer Warriors" lifting up our granddaughter and she was moved back to Bakersfield, CA and we were given a miracle on Nov. 14th, 2005...when our granddaughter was born a preemie (28 weeks out of 40) at 2 lbs. 7 oz. and 13" long.
As you can imagine, our son & daughter-in law kept busy with visits and our son & daughter-in-law working. The policy at our son's work was to report any injuries (even as small as a paper cut), so our son did as directed, when a few incidents at work happened (paper-cut, etc). Our son had an injury to his finger, while working on his car and he requested to be able to work labeling things, until it was healed, since the Dr. gave him a note, that would not allow him to lift heavy boxes for 2 weeks.
Our son was told he could not work there for the 2 weeks, unless he could guarantee he could safely lift 40 lbs. and our son knew, that was not possible with one hand. So, our son endured 2 weeks of no work with the financial trials, that brought to their lives. When our son returned to work, he found out that they would keep him on full time (he was well liked at work and a hard worker), which was a huge help and a reason to rejoice.
Our granddaughter was a fighter from the beginning of her life, she faced many mountains and valleys in her daily struggle. On Wednesday, January 18th, our daughter-in-law (who went back to work at the end of December) and our son took the day off of work, because our granddaughter was in a deep valley.
We spent a little precious time with our granddaughter, who could fight no more and (at 37 weeks out of 40) she went to be with JESUS after spending 2 mo's & 4 days in the hospital & in our lives.
On Thursday, January 19th, we went to go make arrangements for our granddaughter's funeral, which took longer than we were told. Our son called his work and asked if he could get some bereavement time off, since his daughter died yesterday.
He was told they don't offer bereavement time off to seasonal employees. Our son explained that he was a full time employee, not seasonal and they told him that the final decisions were not made yet (though they had already let the seasonal employees go) and that if he did not come in that night...it would not look good on his reliability record. He said my baby just died, and he made the decision to not go in, (As anyone would go to work? --JLD), as we were still making arrangements.
On Friday, January 20th, our daughter-in-law (whose work was compassionate and gave her bereavement time off) drove our son to work, where he was told he was fired by Human Resources for Unreliability and Safety Issues.
Does this story want you to see 60 Minutes interview the person who made this decision? 60 Minutes would get down to the real issues, employee abuse, disregard for employee rights, caring for the employee, and a total lack of common sense in human compassion, and understanding of the word "community" which they emphasize frequently on their Human Resources web site.
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Posted by Ponie on 2006-01-27:
Until I see Target's side of this story, I find it difficult to 'take sides.' Can you provide?
Posted by tander on 2006-01-27:
They were probaly just looking for a excuse to fire you.
Posted by synnep on 2006-11-24:
Ok, Im a bit late on this but I couldnt help but reply. I cant help but feel this 'story' is full of half truths.
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Target SUCKS
Posted by Critic on 10/23/2006
OREM, UTAH -- I like shopping at Target (besides for groceries - HORRIBLE selections and prices). It overall has a better atmosphere than Walmart and many other retail stores.
Unfortunately I can no longer shop there. I have a newborn and frequent the store to purchase clothes, diapers and other baby related goods. In the process, I have also frequently had to return some items and have had some bad experiences.
Just the other day I took back a baby toy that we were going to give to a friends new baby but decided not too. We did not have the receipt but were willing to take in store credit for the current price of the item (seems fair right?). We needed batteries and some other non-baby items, but target would only let us use the credit that day and it had to be used on baby stuff. We ended up having to find needless items.
I don't shop at target anymore. I understand that there are many ppl out there that have GREAT experiences there... good for you. However, I plead with all to stand up to companies that wrong them in some way. STOP giving companies your money that have unethical practices, a lack of customer respect and who you feel do not value your business. Make a statement and exercise your freedom!
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Posted by LANDON on 2006-10-24:
there return policy definitly sucks. last year i bought my son a halloween costume, found out it was the wrong size. so the next day i attempted to take it back to exchange for the exact suit, just a bigger size (same price) and because i didn't have the reciept they would only give me 80% of the price of the costume even though it had never been on sale. so i ended up having to pay more all over again for the same costume (this was the ONLY place that i could find it). I refused to buy any x-mas stuff there that year and will continue to refuse. thanks for letting me vent.
Posted by Demonoid Phenomenon on 2006-10-24:
I have to believe that if receipts were kept (for all concerned), no one would be here right now declaring, "Target sucks". Without a receipt, they don't know when you purchased what or if you even purchased it from them. Keep your receipts, you won't have a problem.
Posted by Hugh_Jorgen on 2006-10-24:
I have to agree, DP. I have had tho return things to Target thru the years for a variety of reasons, but I have always had my receipt and I have never had a problem.
Posted by Shakra on 2006-10-24:
Every complaint I have seen about Target has included the phrase "I didn't have the receipt." This person obviously knew their return policy by this statement, "In the process, I have also frequently had to return some items and have had some bad experiences." Why blame Target for your mistake, critic?
Posted by lobo65 on 2006-10-24:
Why is she blaming Target? They aren't the ones who lost the receipt. If I lose a receipt for an item I don't even feel right in attempting to return it.
Posted by Skye on 2006-10-24:
What is so hard about saving receipts?? I even save my grocery store receipts, in case something is bad or spoils before the expiration date. I have a box that my husbands sneakers came in, so it is pretty big, hot glued pretty fabric onto it. Receipts automatically go into it. Keeping receipts is easy, finding them always wasn't. My husband also now automatically puts receipts from whatever he purchases right into it. I do go through it every few months, and just throw out all the grocery receipts. Not time consuming, and of course, all big ticket items, the receipts get stapled to the owner/warranty manuals.
Posted by dealco on 2006-10-24:
I don't understand some people. I can understand the occassional misplacing of a receipt, but if you do it all the time, then don't blame the store for their policy. The only reason they let you exchange it for other baby items is that they do allow 2 "GIFT-EXCHANGES" per year, assuming you got the item(s) as a gift and want something else, but it needs to be a similar item from the same department. That policy was not intended for disorganized shoppers who don't know where their own receipt is! Plus, Target can look up your purchase very quickly if you paid by check, credit card, or debit card. Just like having the receipt since that purchase can be located.
Posted by Skye on 2006-10-24:
A company that requires a receipt for a refund or an exchange is not being unreasonable. Isn't that how they operate?? Therefore, there is nothing to stand up against here. Dealco makes a very good and valid point about how they can track your purchase. Just because you did not have your receipt does not make Target suck.
Posted by Anonymous on 2006-10-24:
I think most people throw the receipt away when they walk out the front door but if you paid for it with a credit card then you still have one when you get your statment.
Posted by spiderman2 on 2006-10-24:
I always keep my receipt for stuff no matter how I paid for it, until I am sure it works and fits, etc. I simply fold it up and put it in my wallet. When I get home, I put it in an envelope marked with the month on it. At the end of the month, I file the receipts away. This system works fine for me and that way I can always find a receipt I need. Stores don't suck because they won't take your word for stuff. Work in retail for a little bit, you would be totally shocked!
Posted by dealco on 2006-10-25:
Lidman -- I agree that if you paid by credit card, then Target will look up your purchase, but don't get confused with the credit card statement. Just because there is a purchase to a store on the statement does not verify the specific item was purchased on that transaction. Your statement only shows the merchant and the total charged. So, the statement alone will not be sufficient for a return. However, if your entire credit card number is printed on the statement, the cashier will simply type in the credit card number, then scan the item to return. This is called "Receipt Lookup" - the card number can be swiped or hand-keyed, it makes no difference.
Posted by redcard on 2006-10-26:
should have kept your receipt.
Posted by guestsitter on 2006-11-28:
Receipts, keep them believe me it would make evereyones life easier. Stores don't have all the same return policies. Targets is simple... 90 days with a VALID receipt. Courtesy to our guests two returns a year with valid ID for the lowest selling price in the department it came from. SIMPLE no muss no fuss don't blame the guest service team for doing their job. Put yourselves in their shoes they have to listen all who think they don't have to follow store policy... Give those poor guest service people a break!!!
Posted by Justusryan on 2006-12-12:
Yeah, I bought a pair of pants for Target 15 years ago, and because they no longer fit, I went to exchange them (seems fair, right?) and they would only give me 90% of the purchase price toward a new pair, and I also did not have a reciept. Crazy!!!
Posted by Anonymous on 2006-12-18:
Perhaps you could have bought the diapers for yourself, since you are too young to hang on to a reciept.
Posted by alittlebird99 on 2006-12-24:
OK, so I've been a Target fan for a long time, but my experience at the store today left me fuming! I bought an item for my husband only 3 days ago. I was in the store yesterday and saw that the item had been reduced by 50% and on clearance. I brought the item back today with my receipt and told the customer service person that I wanted to return the item at the old price and repurchase the item at the new price. She was very rude and told me that I could return the item but that I could not repurchase the item and that I would have to wait until it was back on the floor. I asked her how long that would be and she said she didn't know. I told her that I had JUST purchased the item 3 days ago and she said she would not let me repurchase the item at the new price because I would be ABUSING their return policy!!!!!! I have spent over $1500 dollars at Target for Christmas for family and friends and I'm getting hassled for a $12 price difference???? How in the world is this being customer friendly? While I was getting frustrated at the customer service desk, my daughter had found some cute shoes and an outfit for herself. I was so upset at the situation that I told her to put it back and that we were leaving the store. On a side note, a very nice sales person on the floor did try to help me. . he tried to go to customer service to get the item for me to repurchase. . .but the customer service clerk hid it from him so he couldn't give it to me!!!!!!
Hey Target management. . . . because your rude 18 year old customer service clerk was so diligent in denying my $12 price difference. . .you lost approximately $75 in new sales that I would have spent on my daughter's outfit and shoes! Now that's customer service!
Posted by Winterhorseride on 2006-12-27:
Posted by Winterhorseride on 2006-12-27:
Posted by Anonymous on 2007-02-09:
winter- When did you get fired from Target?
Posted by HotMommi on 2008-01-24:
I had the same issue but they would not even give me a gift card. I got two car seats I am only having one baby and I only have one car!! I talked to a manager and she told me to donate it to Child Haven!!! I have never been so mad and insulted!!! I refuse to ever use Target AGAIN!!!!
Posted by kustmtruckdude on 2008-06-12:
i shop at target very often, and let me tell you if you keep your receipt they will return anything. I personally believe that it is just common knowledge to give a gift receipt or to keep one that is given to you for free! lol ... grow up and get a shoe box.... the military teaches you many things one being personal responsibility, more ppl should try it.
Posted by jbarrow0811 on 2008-08-17:
I work in retail and I think Target SUCKS big time!!! I tried to return something that I was registered for on the baby registry and of course no one gave me a gift reciept....all i wanted was a stupid store credit to buy more stuff from them and they will not do it. That is just bad business because they are making people mad for no reason. They would still be keeping there money if they gave you a store credit!!! HELLO Dummies!!
Posted by McKimberly on 2011-05-03:
I know this happened a long time ago, but here is a little advice: you're shopping and see the item you just bought three days ago on sale! Buy the one you see on sale. Return to the store later with the first one (and its receipt) and return it. I do this all the time. With some stores, they will refund the price difference if it has been usually seven days or less. My method works no matter what, as long as the first item is returned within the allowable time and with the receipt of course. Without the receipt the store will refund the current clearance price only, if that.
Always keep your receipts!!! I save those blank (on the back) envelopes that come in junk mail and keep one for every store I shop at in my purse and/or tote bag. I write my shopping list on the back of the envelope and the name of the store across the top of the flap and put all appropriate coupons/receipts in that envelope. The stores I intend to shop at during the week are in my purse and the others in a tote bag. Once I'm done with the envelope it's marked according to the time period, e.g., "April '11," or "June - Dec '10," and put it in a small accordion file. When the accordion file is finished for the year, I throw away the old January receipts and put new ones in; the in February, throw away the old to make room for the new, etc. This way I always have my receipts neatly organized by store and time period for the previous year. If an item has a warranty, the receipt gets stapled into the warranty and filed with warranties. If the warranty is for over a year, I take a copy of the receipt too and put it with the original and the warranty because sometimes the receipts fade and become illegible.
So anyways, hope this helps!
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The Gustavo conundrum
Luiz Gustavo Dias-- affectionately known as Gustl-- came over to Bayern Munich on a winter transfer from 1899 Hoffenheim in 2011. Quickly winning over Bavarian hearts, he became a fan favorite for his aggressive style of play; filling the hole that destroyer Mark van Bommel left.
His transfer fee, reported to be €15-20 million, seems to be the same amount that Munich are willing to let him go for now. But, with a club as financially storied as Bayern, one would think that they'd like to turn a profit on a player every once in a while. Regarded as the Evil Empire by most, they are usually willing to acquiesce to a want-away player -- sending them on their way to the club of their choice. (See: just about everyone) This Gustavo transfer might be a bit different, perhaps, in who is to gain the most from it.
Marginalized by the brilliant signing last season of Javi Martinez from Bilbao -- what, was Jupp Heynckes not going to start a 40 million euro guy?! -- Gustavo quickly went from first team regular to afterthought. Despite being second fiddle to the Spaniard, Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari still called up the defensive midfielder for the Confederations Cup tournament. Gustavo would impress mightily, and come back to Bayern with hopes of getting more playing time.
"I want to stay at Bayern Munich," he said late July. "I am under contract with the club and I want to fulfill that commitment. I have been in a position to fight for a first team role throughout my career. I will keep on fighting this year, too."
Millions of Bayern fans across the globe sighed relief at the statement, but the hard truth began to show through. With Pep Guardiola's new 4-1-4-1 system, even Javi Martinez has found a spot on the bench (or used unsuccessfully at center back). So what kind of minutes could Gustavo be guaranteed this season at Bayern? Mindful of the fact that he's gunning to start for a Selecao next June.
Before Brazil's midweek match against Switzerland, Gustavo said: "My contract with Bayern runs until 2015, but it is very important that I play first-team football to keep getting called up for the national team.
"I am in a delicate situation at Bayern, and this needs sorting out. I have personal and professional reasons to move. I have heard about the Arsenal interest. It's a big club we're talking about here, so of course I'd like to play for them."
The three clubs with the most interest in the midfielder were Napoli, Wolfsburg and Arsenal. While Wolfsburg seemed to be the initial leader for the Brazilian, when he heard Arsene Wenger's head had been turned, all press and rumors turned tide in favor of the London outfit. And I, along with many others, thought, 'this is a perfect fit'. Tall, strong -- a bruiser -- he might be just what the Gunners need.
Then Arsenal tabled an offer. And this is where the whole thing gets squirrely. While some reports suggest that the transfer fee wasn't large enough -- €20 million from most accounts -- it's that Gustavo was asking for wages probably no other Gunner is paid: somewhere in the realm of 130 thousand euro a week. Possibly the only three guys that are making anywhere near that at Arsenal are Lukas Podolski, Theo Walcott and Jack Wilshere.
Despite his interest in playing for Arsenal, others suggested that he wouldn't be guaranteed a starting place in London. And in one day, Arsenal dropped out and Wolfsburg dropped in. A report from Die Welt stated that Bayern had accepted a lower bid for Gustl from the Wolves, noting that Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Volkswagen AG chairman, sits on Bayern's supervisory board; while kicker said that the good Professor-Doctor sealed the deal in Hungary over the weekend during the Gyori friendly.
Whatever deal is finalized, it's likely to do so in the next few days, or even hours. But one must pause to consider what is better for Gustavo. On the one hand, if player wage expectation was too great at Arsenal, then I'm inclined to think that Gustavo and his agent blew the deal. Yes, Wolfsburg -- owned by Volkswagen -- can afford his salary, and Gustavo can certainly look to be in the first team on a regular basis at the club. But that comes at the cost of Champions League competition, and playing for a bottom-half Bundesliga side. And while that might get him to Brazil, who says that the Gunners wouldn't, as well?


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Despite a strong pilot episode populated with talented performers, "Smash" started to hemorrhage viewers in its second season. If the show had made one simple change, viewership could have stayed steady (or even increased) in Season 2. The ultimate failing of "Smash" is simple: It just wasn't funny. At least, not intentionally so.
There's no rule that musicals need to be funny, and in fact, "Les Mis" and "The Phantom of the Opera" prove that darkly dramatic musicals can engender serious fan worship. But in the case of episodic TV, the American TV fan seems to be craving a strong dose of comedy alongside their show tunes.
Take the case of Seth MacFarlane, the crude cartoon mastermind who pretty much owns the Sunday animation lineup on Fox. All of MacFarlane's shows have featured comedic musical numbers, and fans absolutely adore these interludes.
Lest you think that TV fans only want to watch comedic songs as a one-off joke, consider the musical juggernaut that is Joss Whedon's musical project "Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog." Originally produced as a way to stave off boredom during a Writers Guild strike, the three-part web series starring Nathan Fillion and Neil Patrick Harris was a smash hit. It was so popular, it was eventually shown on TV, as well! The series, predominantly a comedy, had a bittersweet ending that gave the whole production real depth.
Part of the reason "Glee" has stayed on the air for so long is because of its reliance on comedic situations. "Glee" and "Smash" suffered from some of the same problems, including goofy villains and weird tonal shifts from episode to episode. However, because "Glee" is ultimately a light-hearted, comedic series, its ratings have remained steadier than those of "Smash."
Sure, "Smash" had some intentionally funny moments, but more often than not, it was the unintentionally funny moments that viewers latched on to. Karen and Ivy singing with street musicians and Rebecca's peanut allergy were funny, but for all the wrong reasons. Compounding this "accidentally humorous" situation was the over-reliance on original music -- some of which was used heavy-handedly.
If "Smash" had adopted an intentionally comedic approach to storytelling, the show might have kept its initially large audience. Ultimately, "Smash" is a warning to other TV shows: Don't take yourself too seriously, or people will be laughing at you for all the wrong reasons. The real way to a viewer's heart is through comedy: Once you've got them laughing, then you can go in for the emotional sucker punch.
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