Here is the presentation by the Current about the Butchers and on-line coupons. (pop-up player here) The program talks about how the butchers deal didn’t add up, and how the deal resembled a ponzi scheme with one set of coupons going to pay off another one.
It is also a good interview with Marlon, the owner of the Butchers and brings in his point of view. How the store is struggling to keep up with demand and how his staff have been abused. As well as input from the various online coupon sites. I think Fabfind represented themselves well. It also explains the how the deals benefit the coupon companies often at the expense of the company running the deal.
I had sent an email to Marketplace to see if I could get them interested but never heard back. I am glad the Current has decided to take this on.
My coupons were through buytopia. They have not responded to email. When talking to them on the phone they refuse to give a refund. They state the vouchers are good for a year and they will not offer refunds until the year is up.
I would be very interested in a lawsuit against the Butcher shop but more important I believe the lawsuit needs to be against the seller of the coupon. They are who we made the contract with.
I spoke with Jonathon (sp) at Buytopia and he would not even provide his last name for my records. They are refusing to admit they are responsible which in my mind they are, as my contract (money paid) was to them.
I have contacted 680 news in the hope that they may pick up the story but I doubt if it is newsworthy enough for them.
Any ideas or suggestions?
Has anyone considered going to your credti card co. (Visa, MC etc.) They can be very helpfull in geting refunds & if lots of people go this route, then the deal companies could hve problems using ghte credit card facilities that they so dearly depend on.
Worth an attempt?