I have been trying to purchase an item for a while now but found it was out of stock everywhere. I found an internet site advertising it so I emailed them first to see whether it was in stock. They told me they had one available so I ordered it. I have now received an email saying that the item is in fact out of stock after all. They have given me several options now but are not offering a refund only a credit voucher. This is unacceptable to me as it is a shop that I am very unlikely to want to make a further purchase from. What rights do I have? Can I insist that they refund the money to my credit card?
You have the absolute right to cancel the order under the Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations, and to have your money back. tell them that unless they refund the m oney by close of business on (I suggest you allow a week) then you will isuue proceedings in the County Court.
By placing your order you have entered into a contract with this company whereby you pay them to supply you with a product. If they are now unable to supply you with this product they must offer you a refund
For future reference note that reputable companies will only debit your card when the item is despatched so read the small print before placing an order.