Refund on a Gift Card

[smurfchops]

My husband bought me a gift voucher as a little extra christmas present at a local franchise of large chain of hairdressers who have always had a beaty salon, so that I could have a pedicure. I have been going to this beauty salon for manicures and pedicures for a couple of years (but not for my hair) and also have a Loyalty Card which I wanted to use up. The gift voucher runs out the end of the March and as I am going away I thought I would book a manicure and a pedicure. I just rang to make an appointment next week, and they don't have a Beauty Salon any more. I don't want my hair cut or coloured there as I have just had it done elsewhere, and the voucher runs out at the end of March. As they didn't tell my husband that the beauty room was closing, when he paid for the pedicure, where do I stand for a refund ? The gift card says it cannot be refunded and Head Office said I have to deal with the local branch - the manager of the local branch just happens to be out today. Am I entitled to a refund or will I have to use the card for hair or buying exorbitantly priced shampoo, just to use it up ?

[bednobs]

you will not be "entitled" to a refund however they may do it as good will

[mightywease]

I don't think legally you can ask for or expect a refund, however, I would try and sweet talk the manager into letting you have a refund. Got to be worth a try!

[mccfluff]

i doubt you'll get it refunded, they'll just offer you credit for something else

[joko]

they really should have some kind of warning though...as you buy giftcards with no expiry date you assume it is indefinite...not that the place will disappear!

id kick up a fuss

[Old_Geezer]

I think you are looking for some goodwill gesture. Suspect you aren't legally entitled to anything. The card is still valid for money off a treatment they offer. That said I hate the idea of a date by which it should be used. I feel if any outlet refuses to honour them after a particular date then they should refund the money they took.

[smurfchops]

joko, the gift card was valid for three months ... until the end of March. The hairdressers is still there, but not the beauty parlour out the back. It was there when the gift card was bought, but not now !

[Yorky Lass]

If they refuse to give you a refund why not stand there and everytime a customer wishes to pay for her hair cut say " would you mind using my gift voucher?" Explaining to the customer why you are finding it necessary to ask.
They will either give you a refund to get rid if you or you'll get your money back via the customers.
Just an idea - it might work.

[dotty.]

Does the chain not have a beauty salon in another branch that you can use?

[pink-kittens]

did they know the beauty side of things was going to be closing when they sold the cards to your OH?

[smurfchops]

Well I was very surprised, the manager rang me and asked me to come in for a refund ! So no problems in the end.