Ace Hardware phony sale

[bilmac]

Did anyone get the leader, an 18V. Makita 1/2" hammer drill, 47% off, at Ace's last sale? I drove 20 miles one way on the first day of the sale to be told "we don't have it, and it ain't in our warehouse". I got a little hot under the collar and demanded a rain check, this isn't the first time this has happened. This was about a week and a half ago and still no word from Ace.

Anybody know who to complain to? Will it do any good? Would complaining to Makita do any good?

[Beers]

Unfortunately, if you listen close (or read small, as the case may be) you'll hear (or see) the words "while supplies last" or "supplies limited" somewhere in just about every ad for such a sale. You may have made it on the first day of the sale, but with big name power tools selling at half off, the first hour would have been better.

Sorry to say it, I feel for ya. But I don't think complaining to anyone will do any good. I don't think you'd get anyone who could do anything about it to recognize your complaint as legitimate.

[Sitting Duck]

I would send a cordial letter to Ace Corporate.  I don't know if Ace franchises their stores or not but go to the top in your area of concern.  Maybe the V.P. of Marketing, for example.  Even if it is a franchised store, Ace Corporate will have ample control over them.

I would definitely copy Makita's marketing department with your letter.  If they're supporting a sale with Ace that isn't happening, they will be concerned.  If Ace is flat out using their name in false advertising, they will probably be a little more than concerned.  

A mention in your letter to corporate that a followup letter to the local newspaper with regard to the local store's business practices will be forthcoming should they not address your concerns.  Be prepared to follow up with this letter to the editor of your local newspaper.  Sometimes, the concerns of an individual tend to fall through the cracks with the big corporations.  If they're an aboveboard company, they will make it right with you.    

Keep everything honest and factual.  Bad publicity is something no one wants.  Especially an Ace Hardware that is fighting for market share with the Home Depots and Lowes of the world.

Tell 'em you want a coupon to cover your fuel costs, also.  Their false advertising created an unneeded expense on your part.  At today's prices, depending on what you're driving, this can add up.  

I've heard of "loss leaders" before but to not have the drills in the store or warehouse is poor business practice.  And to not offer a "rain check" on the spot, in my opinion, shows poor local management of this store.  

Go get 'em and good luck!    

[beemanbeme]

Yeah, that "while supply lasts" or supplys are limited" is the big weinie.  It could mean they have ONE .......... somewhere. Don't be too hard on your local store though. Most of that crap comes out of the home office.
 Creative advertizing.  Next thing you know, the guy will be writing camapaign speeches for some politician.  

[victorcharlie]

There are many stores that only have a few of the items on sale.  This practice is becoming more common.  I suggest you call and see before traveling and if possible see if they can hold it for  you.....

[Tencubed]

The Ace store I deal with is always honest and above board.  I would call the store manager and ask how soon they anticipate the drill being in stock.  I'm assuming you have the rain check since you are expecting a call/notice from them.  Big thing is to let them know you are expecting to complete the deal.

If, after a few weeks, you have not received the drill I would think it would be appropriate to contact the home office and Makita.  A letter to the Better Business Bureau and State Attorney General would also be called for IMO.  If they gave a rain check they need to honor it.

Mike