Repeated delivery delays and poor stock handling

I have been a long-time Takealot customer, and I am posting here because there is no effective way on the platform to provide meaningful feedback or formally raise concerns about delivery experiences.

In December, I ordered a home sound system that was indicated as in stock and scheduled to arrive three days before Christmas (after a two-week lead time). I even researched the supplier and saw they are based in Midrand — the same city as me.

I waited with no updates or movement on the app until the expected delivery date. On that very day, the order status was suddenly changed to “cancelled” due to no stock. However, when checking the app immediately afterwards, the exact same sound system was available again — but at a higher price.

I then had to wait an additional three days for the refund to reflect before placing a new order, which only arrived after Christmas. This was extremely disappointing, especially given the timing.

Recently, I ordered a cellphone. The system indicated a delivery time of approximately 1.5 weeks. Once again, the supplier is based in Johannesburg — the same city as me. In this day and age, it is difficult to understand how it takes more than seven days to complete a collection and delivery within the same city. Currently, my phone has arrived at the courier facility and is simply sitting there, scheduled for delivery tomorrow. The lack of movement and transparency is frustrating. It makes me question whether I would have received my item sooner had I chosen collection or purchased directly from a physical store.

Overall, there appears to be significant room for improvement in stock accuracy, communication, and local logistics efficiency.

I hope this feedback is taken seriously and that improvements can be made to prevent similar experiences for other customers.