Bic fine red

I have always been using Bic fine pens from schooldays (matriculated in 1999). Never had any problems or issues. They only needed replacing when the ink was depleted. Unfortunately I was disappointed this week when I bought the Bic fine pens. Two of all three colours were bought. Both the new reds refused to write. Also tried the old school trick of trying to write under my rubber shoe but to no avail.