False advertising and lies from Support

There is currently a promotion running when you open the Uber app in Cape Town. It has no promo code like usual, but specifically invites riders to 50% rides from 5 March to 11 March 2018 and says all you need to do is use the app as normal and the discounts will automatically be app****.

Wanting to take advantage of the promotion, I used Uber for 2 rides yesterday. Afterwards I saw that the advertised discounts were not app****.

I then contacted the support team to enquire why. The first reply I got said that the promotion had expired the day before. That was strange, seeing as the advert states 5 March - 11 March and I took the trips on 5 March ...

The next reply from the support team mentioned that the new/actual reason it didn't work was because I hadn't entered the promo code. Also very strange as the advert states that the discount is automatically app**** and there was no promo code displayed.

Yet another reply from support to my follow ups stated that it was now actually because the promotion was only for eligible riders and I'm supposedly not eligible. Also strange as I spend a lot of money with Uber and usually only ride Uber black which is more expensive. I wonder who is then eligible and why the advert didn't mention this and/or why it still pops up every time I open the app ?

This should serve as a warning to others that the app and service contains false and misleading advertising. Also, when you do happen to request support and service, you are blatantly **** to and constantly made to feel that your interests are not important to the local team and company running the operations. When you point out their obvious lies and misdirection, you are told another lie / excuse.

I used to have an inkling of admiration for Uber, especially the local Cape Town chapter, but it seems that the troubles and challenges affecting the parent company abroad have filtered down to us here in SA.

What a shame. Good thing that the local consumer has a few other options with companies that care for your well-being and don't question you or make you feel like you're in the wrong, when all you are doing is asking about a very clear and specific promotion that is shown on the app.

Disappointed & disgusted.