Company leaves hundreds of Aussie seniors out of pocket
Groupon Australia is in the crosshairs of consumers around the country who claim they’ve been “ripped off” by the online discount voucher provider, after purchasing vouchers that turned out to be unredeemable and non-refundable.
News.com.au reports hundreds of consumers nationwide are furious with the daily deal site when, after purchasing their voucher from the online marketplace, they got into contact with the merchants who claimed there was no availability.
The report highlights the story of Carly Randle, a 33-year-old single mother from New South Wales, who bought a $89 Groupon voucher for a salon hair treatment.
But when she was unable to make an appointment her voucher expired.
“I could never use the voucher when it suited me,” Ms Randle told News.com.au.
“They would always say that they were booked out and didn’t have the timeslots for Groupon vouchers.”
“I reported the issue to Groupon but no refund was given even though it was requested,” she added. “It was a waste of money, time and effort.”
A Groupon spokesperson responded to the News.com.au report, saying the company was “continually monitoring feedback”.
“We will always assist customers with any redemption or booking issues they have as best we can.
“To be able to do this, we need to be contacted prior to the voucher expiring.
“The expiry date is clearly marked on the voucher, and we urge customers to check and make note of this as validity periods can vary.”
Consumer Affairs Victoria also weighed in.
“We receive inquiries and complaints about group buying, particularly in areas such as hair, beauty and personal care services, restaurants and cleaning services,” according to Consumer Affairs Victoria’s site.
“Common complaints include non-supply and incomplete supply of products or services, and difficulty in booking services and redeeming vouchers.”
What are your thoughts? Do you bother with daily deal sites?