Lee Cooper Store Refused My Return Despite My Legal 14-Day Refund Right
On May 17, I purchased a seasonal jacket from the Lee Cooper store located in Avantaj Outlet. At the time of purchase, there was a $22 discount promotion applied at checkout. When I later returned to the store to exchange the jacket because the size was too large, I discovered that the correct size was unavailable. I then requested a refund instead. However, I was told that discounted products were not eligible for returns. I explained that the jacket was a current-season item with all original tags attached and that returning it was a basic consumer right.
The store manager informed me that the jacket was available at stores in Istanbul, approximately 75 miles away, and suggested that I exchange it there instead. I explained that if I traveled there and later requested a refund, I could easily be told that refunds were only accepted within 14 days and only at the original store of purchase, which would force me to return to Tekirdağ. To clarify the policy, I personally called the Lee Cooper store at 212 Mall. The representative there clearly stated that the jacket was a seasonal item and that I was entitled to a refund within 14 days even if it had been purchased under a promotional discount.
When I informed the manager at the Avantaj Outlet store that I intended to file a complaint regarding the misinformation I had been given, he became confrontational and attempted to accuse me of making false statements. He then prolonged the process by claiming that headquarters was closed, that he needed approval for the refund, and that he had to consult with a regional manager. He continued creating obstacles by insisting that the register procedures would take a long time. A simple refund transaction ended up taking approximately one hour, and I was left waiting at the checkout counter throughout the entire process. In fact, I am still waiting at the register as I write this complaint.
I do not accept the fact that my legal and reasonable right to a refund was initially denied, nor do I accept the threatening and accusatory behavior displayed by the store manager. I request that my return be completed fully and without issue in accordance with my 14-day refund rights. I also request that Lee Cooper investigate the conduct of the manager at the Avantaj Outlet location, including the misinformation provided and the disregard shown toward customer satisfaction, so that other customers do not experience similar treatment in the future.
