My worst ever experience at CompUSA

January 18, 2006

Today I stopped by CompUSA to return an unopened $7 item. The store

location is on Blossom Hill in San Jose, CA. The item is a 5 blank-DVD

package, and was purchased just a couple of weeks ago.

I got in line at the Customer Service desk and asked a service rep to

return the item. The rep said I can't return without a receipt. I

asked if I could get store credit because I do not need the item. She

said she would have to ask the store manager.

The store manager, Andrew Korb, showed up, gave me a look, and said

that I can't return the item. At that time, I read the back of the

receipt, and also noticed on a large sign inside the store, indicating

that unopened items without a receipt can be returned for store

credit. I pointed this to Mr. Korb. He promptly told me, and his exact

wordings were:

Mr. Korb: I know what the policy says, but I won't let you return it.

Me: Why not? It's a store policy.

Mr. Korb: How do I know you just didn't walk in and took that off the shelf?

Me: <stunt> You're kidding me? Let me speak to the store manager.

Mr. Korb: I am the store manager.

Me: Then let me speak to someone higher than you.

Mr. Korb came back with another gentleman named Chris, and Chris

promptly allow me to return the item for store credit.

The whole time while speaking to Mr. Korb I was being nice, not even

raising my voice. After his "How do I know you just didn't walk in and

took that off the shelf?" statement, I was so startled, especially

with other sales reps AND customers standing around.

After getting my store credit, I asked the service rep for a phone

number to file a complaint. She said to call 1800-COMPUSA. I've been

trying to call that number, but couldn't get through to anyone. I kept

getting redirected by the phone system.

I hope it wasn't a case of racism as I am asian and the Mr. Korb is caucasian.