Ignite fitness (Walmer, Port Elizabeth) - Unprofessional - NO FEEDBACK FROM ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT

September 2020 I was forced to move from Port Elizabeth to East London due to the pandemic. As my company could no longer accommodate me from my hometown. (There is no Ignite in EL)

I spoke to the accounts dept. who, with no leniency what so ever, issued me with an “early cancellation” fine of well over R2,000.

Because I felt I had no other choice I accepted. (Note that this was never confirmed or explained to me in writing)

Due to my financial strain from moving cities, I humbly asked whether they could assist me with a “payment plan”. Myself & the gentleman discussed this over the phone & he verbally accepted my proposed instalment.

From September 2020 up until the past month I paid instalments. (Not missing a single payment)

After a few months of making payments, I received a phone call from VVM Debt Collectors. Ignite had handed me over. WITHOUT WARNING. Without follow up regarding POP. Without ONCE phoning, following up and asking whether payment was being made. (Not even a SMS or email)

None the less, I kept paying instalments as requested by, VVM by that time. They also sent me monthly statement reflecting my balance - that is when I realised that something was off.

During this period of nearly 3 years, I have not once received a detailed statement from Ignite to clarify my balance or any other fees incurred.

After asking on multiple occasions for A DETAILED statement (I asked more than a dozen times). A lady from VVM phoned me & insisted on Proof of payments and asked that I start making payment to VVM directly. (Which was also NEVER communicated to me by Ignite)

While speaking to the lady I insisted that she speak to Ignite & have them send me the statement that I had requested. I made it clear that I would like to see my “starting balance”, all my deducted instalments & how much I still owe.

I finally received an email from VVM.

NOT A STATEMENT - A PAID UP LETTER.

But no word from Ignite … and still no statement. (I fortunately know that I do have the right to receive one and will be persistent until I am provided with such)

I am sad, because this gym was absolutely beautiful. The facility was great & trainers professional.

BUT, management as well as the finance department definitely need to be checked out. This experience has been nothing less that horrific.