Lack of transparency and service

highly disappointing experience I’ve had with Makro Amanzimtoti following the purchase of an AEG gas electric stove in July 2024.

On the day of purchase, I bought the following items:

AEG gas electric stove

Stove warranty

Stove hob

Television

Soundbar

I also paid R1,200 for stove installation. However, when the installers from Bling arrived, I was unexpectedly asked to pay an additional R4,500 for the installation of the gas cage and stove. This additional cost was never disclosed at the point of sale, which I find unacceptable and misleading.

To make matters worse, the installer informed me after installation that he would not issue a Certificate of Compliance (COC) due to the electric plug point being located directly above the stove. If this was a known safety issue, the installation should never have proceeded. It appears the installer was more interested in collecting payment than ensuring proper procedure. He left without issuing the COC and never returned.

Subsequently, the stove broke down before the warranty expired. When I returned it to Makro Amanzimtoti, I was refused a refund or exchange on the grounds that I could not provide a COC certificate. At no point during the purchase did the salesperson, Alex, explain that a COC would be required for warranty claims. This lack of transparency and accountability is deeply concerning.

I purchased a warranty specifically to protect myself in the event of product failure, and I believe I am entitled to a replacement stove or a full refund. The entire experience—from the hidden installation costs to the refusal to honor the warranty—has been frustrating and unfair. I regret making such significant purchases at Makro and feel completely let down by their service.