Refusal to return item from another branch

I purchases a cutlery divider at woodmead on the 22nd Dec. I returned it to Fourways on the 24th as I could not go to Woodmead at that point in time. I clearly stated that i dont have a slip.The cashier referred it to the manager, who initially said they cannot take it, she said it was damaged and would result as a loss to her branch. But is this part of the process ? She then retained it to escalate it to her regional manager after I questioned their service and return policy. It is very disappointing that a client cannot return an item at any store.