Markhams, a "no go shop" !!

I went to Markhams to sign up for a account as I have been buying clothes there for the last few months. Spending around R1000 cash per month. Let's be honest, they have really nice clothes. So the lady at Mall@reds assisted me in filling in the form and a question was, how much do you get paid after deductions. I gave her the amount, bank statements and everything they asked for. No problems, no hassle. Good and friendly service.

I then received a text message Saturday 8 September stating my account has been approved and I can go to the nearest Markhams to collect my card. So I went to Centurion mall in great spirit. There was a queue, so I waited my turn. Finally I go to the counter, only to find out my account has been declined due to affordability. She might as well announced it over the intercom so embarrassed I was. You could see the other gentlemen in the queue smirking and judging. I showed her the text message, she called the head office I presume, and it was again loud and clear confirmed "Sir, your account has been declined due to affordability" Not telling me what it means or why.

I was now furious. I then decided I will call customer service and find out myself. The operator (who's name is not remotely important in my life, due to such disgraceful service and attitude) confirmed as per the store consultant. When I asked what does this mean, the attitude in which the lady was talking just boiled me to a point of no return. The carelessness and absolute "don't give a @#$%" attitude. Where has the service gone in this country. There is no pride left.

I phoned back asking to speak to a senior consultant. Magdeleen assisted me. She explained the reason to me, and I was still flabbergasted with the outcome. If a person has lets say R10 000 - R15 000 a month spending money, does it really matter if you miscalculated your income (in which I was not wrong. Firstly the lady at Mall@reds stated after deductions, then they asked me for bank statements on end of August, which everyone knows yearly increases only reflects on end of the month payment) anyway... I was promised to be called back today with an explanation and outcome.... Guess what... STILL NO CALL.

If this is the case, I will with gladness take my business to Old Khaki, or Woollies. Seriously, it is a matter of service.