Absa's Deceptive Lounge 'Benefit' Turned into a Hidden Cost

I am extremely disappointed with Absa's handling of my credit card lounge access and what I consider to be an unfair charge.

I hold an Absa credit card and recently travelled to Cape Town. Upon arriving at the airport lounge, I specifically asked the Bidvest lounge staff to check for me whether using my Absa credit card would incur any charges. I was clearly told No, and that the card even allows one visitor. Based on this confirmation, I proceeded to use the lounge.

Last week I received an SMS from Absa stating that R810 will be charged for using the private lounge, claiming that my credit card did not qualify because I had not spent a required minimum amount beforehand. This raises several serious concerns:

1. If my card did not qualify, why was I allowed access in the first place? 2. Why was my card not declined or blocked at the lounge if the requirements were not met? 3. Why was I told at the lounge that there would be no charge, only to be billed weeks later?

When I contacted Absa, instead of taking responsibility, I was told to contact Bidvest myself and ask why they allowed me in. This is totally unacceptable. As Absa 's customer, my agreement is with Absa, not Bidvest. Any arrangements or failures between Absa and their lounge partners should not result in surprise charges to customers.

I am requesting: 1. A reversal of the R810 charge 2. Accountability from Absa for allowing access and then billing after.

I hope Absa addresses this matter transparently and fairly, as this experience has seriously damaged my trust in their services. Failure to resolve this matter fairly will leave me with no choice but to reconsider my banking relationship with Absa.