Takealot’s complete disregard for consumer rights

I am beyond frustrated with Takealot’s complete disregard for consumer rights.

I purchased Adidas Netcourt Pro netball shoes in December 2025, delivered on 31 December. My 13-year-old daughter only started using them around 20 January 2026 for their intended purpose — netball. Within less than 3 months, the material began tearing apart. This is not “wear and tear” — this is a clear product defect.

Let’s be very clear: in terms of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), Section 55, consumers are entitled to goods that are of good quality, durable, and suitable for the purpose for which they are intended. Netball shoes must withstand normal netball activity — running, stopping, pivoting and jumping. Failing within 3 months is completely unacceptable.

Furthermore, Section 56 of the CPA provides for an imp**** 6-month warranty. Within this period, if goods fail to meet the standards set out in Section 55, the consumer has the right to a repair, replacement, OR REFUND — at the consumer’s election.

Takealot has blatantly ignored this.

Instead of honouring their legal obligation, they rejected my return with a list of vague, generic and frankly absurd reasons:

- “Normal wear and tear” - “Misuse or poor care” - “Electrical surges or sea corrosion” (completely irrelevant) - “Product modified” - “Used for unintended purposes”

Not ONE clear, substantiated reason was provided. The shoes were used strictly for netball — exactly what they were designed for. There was no misuse, no modification, and certainly no “electrical surge” involved.

After struggling to even get a proper response (since Takealot makes direct communication nearly impossible), I was told via Facebook that “visible user damage was found.” This is vague, unsubstantiated, and does not override my rights under the CPA.

Takealot cannot simply make broad allegations and use generic policy wording to avoid their legal obligations. In terms of the CPA, the burden is on the supplier when rejecting a valid return within the 6-month imp**** warranty period.

I am formally demanding a FULL REFUND in line with Section 56 of the Consumer Protection Act.

If this matter is not resolved immediately, I will have no hesitation in escalating it to the National Consumer Commission and pursuing further action.

Absolutely unacceptable service and a complete failure to comply with South African consumer law.