Makro Christmas Spirit

<p>I recently had the privilege of experiencing first-hand how top retailers deal with returns on items still within the advertised warranty period. Makro Springfield sold me a Ryobi trimmer in December 2015 – the product failed to work as advertised and within 4 months of purchase needed to be returned as it no longer started and leaked oil. Makro initially sent the trimmer away to what I presume is a legitimate repairer who agreed to exchange the trimmer. This happened in April 2016 and the trimmer was exchanged in store for another Ryobi trimmer. The period between April and September when our grass does not grow or require cutting the trimmer remained in its box in my garage. Early in October the trimmer was used without problems until mid November (perhaps 5 times) for trimming edges. After being used +/- 5 times the trimmer failed to start even after contacting Ryobi and asking advice on the best premix and product care tips. The trimmer was returned to Makro Springfield in December 2016 and again was sent away to the manufacturer for comment whilst the product was well within the advertised 2 year warranty period. Makro then sent me a quotation for repair amounting to R395.00 stating that the problem with the trimmer was wear and tear and not covered under the product warranty. Are you serious??? How can using a trimmer +/- 5 times cause wear and tear issues unless the product is defective to begin with. It was also interesting to see how many of these exact trimmers were being returned in the short time that was spent and the return counters at Makro Springfield. Not only are Makro trying to distance themselves from honouring their in store adverti*****t/warranty but they are trying to use exclusions on their return policies due to what I feel is obviously a problem item. Be warned shoppers – even though we attempt to look for the best customer service and after sales support shopping at recognised retailers does not guarantee peace of mind – VERY UNHAPPY PREVIOUSLY LOYAL MAKRO SHOPPER!!!!! </p>