I received the worst customer service ever at Ikea in Fort Lauderdale. Several customers were trying to exchange unused items in a open original box, and the young lady on the return register stated to all of them, one by one, in a very rude manner, that they were used and no exchange would be done. When the customers started to ask for the manager, they were told that the manager is in a meeting, and will come. However, the manager never came, some 11/2 hours later. Then one customer asked again for a time to speak to the manager. My husband asked another staff in a yellow Ikea shirt with the name Thomas, if he is in a management position. This guy said: "Yes, that's right, and she told you you all cannot return. So leave the f... this store." He actually said this word in front of my children. He almost jumped over the counter, rolling his eyes and balling his fists. I called the police, who arrived and stated, that they have a problem with Ikea employees and that this is not the first time they came out. He talked to customers, who overheard this horrible statement and were also very upset, that a store in the USA have staff working that is completely unprofessional and actually abusive. Finally, the manager came and she reported that this Thomas is loss prevention. The Front Line Managers name is Bernita B. Amarota ([email protected]), I received her card. The policemen actually told her that a guy like Thomas is inappropriate for the job.
For the return policy: I don't know, but it's funny. I returned open and used stuff in the past and had no problems. My husband tried to return new stuff and had problems. I arrived and they exchanged. I saw this several times at Ikea. Maybe I should mention that I'm caucasion and my husband black american.
For me, there is a type of conspiracy going on. I leave it to your imagination, what it could be...
I asked to reach another manager in charge to file a complaint, she stated, the only way to complain is by calling the customer complaint hotline 954-838-9292. I asked for the General Manager's name, and she stated that it is Peter Steinweg.
So if you want to be treat badly, go to Ikea. Indeed that's only the case at the Sunrise location. I shopped for years in Europe's Ikeas, and had only great experiences, even at the return stations.
Sad, sad.