Michael C. Fina: bait and switch scheme scamming newly-weds

Michael C. Fina: bait and switch scheme scamming newly-weds

June 28, 2006

I went to register at Michael C. Fina and Company located on 5th Avenue in New York city. They also

have a web page on theknot.com. At the time of registering for my gifts, they convinced me to do the "consolidated registry" in which my gifts are "held" for me and upon my approval, they'll send all the gifts to me at once. It turned out the china pattern I registered for was discontinued, but they continued to sell the china for 5 MONTHS after it got discontinued. On top of it, they did not have the china in stock. So essentially, they were selling non-existent goods, and showing them as "available" on my registry list. Not knowing their scam, our friends and family bought us the entire set we registered for. When it comes time for delivery, Michael C. Fina could only scrape up 5 dinner plates.

We told them that if they can't deliver, they ought to refund us-- after all, they are not suppose to sell

stuff they don't have and they can't get. They refused. Citing store policy, they would only give us

store credit. What a bait and switch scheme! They lured everyone in with the non-existent merchandise, knowing that it's discontinued and they don't stock, telling everyone that they're "holding" the gifts for us, and then now they want us to buy something else in their store?!!

What a fraud! I complained to Michael C Fina several times, but they insist on only giving us a refund (and hence keep the profit they made from defrauding us). Please spread the word and don't let them defraud other newly weds.