TakeAlot is a bunch of theives

I purchased an Oztrail gazebo from Takealot for R4,500. To my surprise, the unit I received was clearly second-hand. The poles had multiple scratches, and one of the side poles was snapped in half. I immediately arranged for the item to be returned as it was delivered in a damaged condition.

The return was then declined on the basis of “user damage,” which I formally disputed, as the gazebo was received in that state. After several back-and-forth communications, Takealot later informed me that the gazebo had been shipped to the wrong customer. They have since advised that they are unable to locate the unit and that they can only process a refund once it is found.

This is completely unacceptable. The item was returned to Takealot, and any loss or logistical error after that point falls entirely within their responsibility. I should not be penalised for internal operational failures.

I have now paid R4,500 and have nothing to show for it. The lack of meaningful assistance from the call centre and the refusal to escalate the matter to senior management has been extremely frustrating. In addition, Takealot is not honouring its own return policies.

This was my hard-earned money, and I expect a full refund without further delay.