The WORST iStore in the world

If I could give 0 stars, I would.

Here's a short synopsis of my experience with iStore Ballito.

Simply put - hands down the worst store experience I've ever had with Apple. Ever.

The quality of support I've received was disgustingly appalling. I have run out of superlatives to use to accurately describe how unsatisfied and frustrated I am with Apple, iStore Ballito and everyone involved. Every person and every touch point has been an absolute nightmare. I've been using Apple for 15 years, and this experience has made me hate your stores. You can be 100% sure I will be telling every single person I know never to set foot anywhere NEAR iStore Ballito.

After keeping my device hostage for 2 months, with minimum communication and no guarantee on an ETA, then they absolved themselves of all responsibility - over email, on the phone, and in person, saying it "wasn't their fault" because they could not control what happens at Customs.

Jacqueline Aaron is the most obnoxious, stand-offish and *********** 'Store Manager' I've encountered and the worst possible brand ambassador for Apple. She took no responsibility for the situation, repeatedly shifted accountability to her superiors (thanks for the support Wandile Dladla) and basically just ignored me at the counter.

I had to beg for a loan device, and once I got my device back, you couldn't even extend me the courtesy of allowing me to keep the loan device for a couple days while my back-up restored, making me pay a 'deposit' or R10k+. You removed my screen protector from my unit without informing me (which cost me R500) and if I hadn't asked about it, you would have kept quiet. Not to mention the fact that you promised my refund would be processed within 48 hours if I used the same card (which I did), only for it to reflect 6 days later, messing with my interest rates and repayments.

Your brand and your store and its staff have left a bitter, sour taste in my mouth. No accountability, no tact, no empathy. No real desire to be of service and assist - just a reaction to try save face and get me out of the shop as quickly as possible.

The ONLY person who has shown any kind of professionalism and taken any kind of responsibility throughout this entire process is Ryan Chinsamy. Ryan's communication was prompt, empathetic, detailed and the only correspondence that showed some kind of remorse for the situation. Ryan, you are the single shining light one fit to represent the Apple brand - well done for your skill and care when it comes to customer service and just being human.

The rest will happily continue losing you customers and credibility.

And as much as it pains me to say, that's exactly what this store and this brand deserves.

Bye.