Wal-Mart SuperCenter Be proactive when checking out at Wal-Mart! Winter Haven Florida

I was shocked when my same incident turned up a minute ago in a Yahoo search!

I don't mind following any store's policies, but is it asking too much for the policies to be posted before I purchase the merchandise? While Christmas shopping I picked up a paperback book for me. The title seemed familiar and when I got home I realized it indeed was a book I already had.

When I tried to return the book, which was clearly unread, sticker still on, with the receipt in my hand, I was told books couldn't be returned as it was against copyright laws...huh?

An assistant manager was called and this policy was repeated. Okay I responded and gave the book away on the spot. Then I went and looked over the book section...no return policy was in view.

When I got home I called the store and asked for the name of the assistant manager, and the district manager's name and phone number. When asked why I wanted this, I explained the situation. The employee on the phone stated that this was Wal-Mart's policy...to not allow books to be returned.

Well, two points need to be clarified. First, does Wal-Mart make so much money on books that they are afraid to post their non-refundable book policy in the book section or on the receipt for fear of profits taking a nosedive?

Second, this being "Wal-Mart's policy" is a far cry from this being "against copyright laws." I could fully accept Wal-Mart's policy on this matter if it had been made known prior to my purchase.

Furthermore, it seems to me this is the second time a return has been refused by Wal-Mart. My son tried to return a skirt for me (receipt in hand). Their excuse then was that the 30-day time limit had passed. However I don't remember ever seeing a 30-day time limit posted at the service counter, just a 90-day time limit. Perhaps it is posted somewhere...I don't recall.

I am now afraid to purchase anything from Wal-Mart. I will probably have to have a store manager review every item in my shopping cart prior to checking out at the cash register and then sign the receipt in case I need to return an item.

I'd rather be proactive than have to be told a bold-faced lie at the return desk. Shame on you Wal-Mart.


Suzanne
Winter Haven, Florida
U.S.A.