Rigid application of return period

My review is in connection with a rather rigid rejection of a return request in relation to which I wrote the letter hereunder to Takelot' CEO but couldnt find usable email adresses:

Mr. Zietsman and the Executive Escalations Team

I am reaching out to your office regarding a rigid system rejection from Takealot's standard customer service team concerning a recent return.

I recently purchased a Gardena Soft Flex hose and connectors. Both items are completely unopened, unused, and in pristine retail condition. Due to an oversight, I ordered the 13mm variant instead of the 19mm variant that my setup requires. By the time I realized this mistake, the standard automated return window had unfortunately closed.

Standard support has refused to assist due to the system timeline. However, as an item that is 100% resellable, I simply wanted to exchange this for the correct, more expensive 19mm Gardena hose on your platform but as Takelot do not have it in stock at the moment (and at a 50m length), I'd appreciate a refund.

As I am currently 73 years old you might appreciate that I do not wish to be encumbered by rigid automated corporate policies for a premium, unopened product where a simple manual override can ensure customer loyalty.

I therefore respectfully and kindly request that your office authorizes a manual return for store credit (or an exchange if you might have stock) so I can proceed with purchasing the correct 19mm hose either from Takealot or other retailer.

Order Details: Order Number: 217 219 248 Product: Gardena Soft Flex Hose & Connectors Condition: 100% Unopened / Pristine Original Packaging My Contact Number: ***

Thank you for your time and for assisting in resolving this practical matter.

Kind regards,

Dr CC Strydom (PhD) Clinical Neuropsychologist (retired) George RSA