Parochialism in a global marketplace: bad for business

I bought some bicycle pedals from an overseas dealer (via eBay).

One of them broke recently, less than six months old. Under normal circumstances, it would be a simple warranty replacement case (LOOK Kéo pedals have a two-year warranty, according to the box). But I bought them via eBay, at a reasonable (but not huge) discount. I should still be able to claim the manufacturer’s warranty directly from LOOK directly and I will try, but it might be a bit tricky.

I rang the Australian distributor of LOOK products about getting spare parts. After telling the man that I bought the pedals overseas he said, “Isn’t it a bit cheeky asking for parts from us?” His premise is that they are willing to assist someone who bought products through their distribution channel, but not otherwise. I told him I was happy to pay for the replacement part but that made no difference to his attitude.

I understand their position, but it is bad business. The onus is not on the distributor but on LOOK to replace defective parts.

Wake up guys! We are in a global marketplace.

Comments

  1. Chevy
    March 23rd, 2007 | 8:59 pm

    You would have thought that he might get your future business if he had happily supplied the part you required. A short sighted business person.

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