27 Apr 2018

Noel Leeming stores accused of misleading customers

12:13 pm on 27 April 2018

Electronic goods retailer Noel Leeming has been charged with misleading customers at eight of its stores.

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Photo: Noel Leeming

Nine charges have been laid against the retailer by the Commerce Commission for alleged misconduct between September 2015 and January 2017 last year.

It has accused Noel Leeming of misleading customers about refunds from faulty goods and the right to get a replacement.

The complainants purchased or considered purchasing items such as mobile phones, laptops and appliances.

The charges have been laid under the Fair Trading Act.

In a statement, Noel Leeming said it was disappointed that the Commission's enforcement decision "came without the opportunity to investigate or discuss the complaints".

"We take our compliance responsibilities seriously and we want to do the right thing by our customers," the statement said.

The Commission said it had issued three warnings or compliance advice letters to Noel Leeming over the past 11 years.

Consumer New Zealand said it was not surprised by the allegations.

Spokesperson Jessica Wilson said it received regular complaints.

"Almost every week we get an enquiry from a consumer who's bought something from Noel Leeming and potentially being misled about their rights," she said.

Noel Leeming is owned by the Warehouse Group and has 77 stores around the country. It is due to appear in the Auckland District Court on 29 May.