h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

We bought a fridge from a well known chain of electrical retailers, and were told it would be delivered within a fortnight.

Several weeks later - and after many attempts - we eventually got through the automated telephone systems and spoke to a human being, who informed us that not only had our fridge not yet arrived in the country, but *it had not even been built yet*.

Mind-boggled by the thought that a fridge could be a bespoke item of furniture we cancelled the order.

So, you have my sympathies, because at least we didn't end up bouncing between companies.

I would never, ever buy an extended warranty. I always tell the salesperson (and often confirm in writing) that if what they are selling me doesn't last five years, I will not be buying any of their products in the future

Mol

Mol......."I always tell the salesperson (and often confirm in writing) that if what they are selling me doesn't last five years, I will not be buying any of their products in the future"

Wish I'd thought of that when buying the freezer in the first place !

There are good companies out there, without doubt and they are probably working on the assumption that there must a niche market for consumer friendly sales people.

I was very surprised when I bought a leaf blower/vacuum from a DIY store, only to find that the manufacturer was Chinese (nothing against them of course) and getting absolutely nowhere when trying get a replacement bag.

Not as bad as your case of "Its not actually built yet, but hang on the phone while we manufacture it"...unbelievable !