What can I do about a store that doesn't have what it advertises?

Question

A department store's flyer (Mervynn's) advertised a good price for all sizes of electric blankets including king. I got there 1 hour after the doors opened and although they had many in other sizes, there were no kings. The manager said they have no control over what is shipped or advertised. He would not give me a rain check or a comparable item at the the same price. I want the good price but also feel they should do something for people who make a special trip because of their ad. Can I do anything? Thank you.

Answer 1

That's called "bait and switch." Sears got sued for it years ago, so you'd think Mervyn's would have learned. Contact the corporate offices, and voice your complaints; the higher up you go in the chain of command, the more likely you are to eventually get what you want. Ultimately, you're going to deal with someone who looks at his subordinate and says, "Why are you bothering me with this? Take care of it!"

Answer 2

The manager was right. You did not have a contract or prepaid order or anything. You were a shopper and stores are not obligated to stock everything and anything -
That is just the breaks of the game. Settle for a queen & realize the stock for the rain checks rarely ever comes in anyway. You're being too over the top about a shopping item.

Answer 3

There probably isn't a lot you can do except wait for them to receive a new order of king-sized electric blankets. This is why I usually call stores to see if they have what I need before I actually go there.

Answer 4

Ask them to call another Mervynn's store to check for inventory. Well, if none in 5 stores, then it's a scam.
Report Mervynn's to Better Business Bureau.

I wouldn't buy anything from Mervynn's anyway.

Answer 5

If they don't have what they advertise, you can ask for a rain check I know Safeway does.... They have to give you one. If they don't you can sue for false advertisement. But as in all courts you have to have proof and that's going to be hard.