Lightsaver light - a cheap copy advertised as real thing?

quincross

I've been a bit of a lurker for awhile and have learnt a load of useful stuff so thanks guys. I bought a light from Lightsaver which whilst advertised as a genuine Zanzibar is, I'm pretty certain, a cheaper copy of the genuine product (Zanzibar by searchlight). I've been in touch with the Lightsaver asking for money back and they've been pretty agressive on the phone. I finally got them to check with their 'head office' and come back to me, but I doubt I'll see my money again - so could do with some advice.

This is the light I was looking for (Just to make it clear the image is from a legit competitor who as far as I'm aware would supply a genuine zanzibar light):

(SADLY CAN'T POST PIC OR LINK DUE TO NEW USER POSTING RESTRICTIONS)

The light Lightsaver sent is this one shown on the same legit competitor site who doesn't mention of the Zanzibar TM (as its not one):

(SADLY CAN'T POST PIC OR LINK DUE TO NEW USER POSTING RESTRICTIONS)

However this is the way LightSaver advertise the same 'copy' product:

(SADLY CAN'T POST PIC OR LINK DUE TO NEW USER POSTING RESTRICTIONS)

I sadly missed the fact they state it's a 5 arm fitting (even though their photo shows a genuine 6 arm Zanzibar) - but that is the only thing that would have tipped me off as the dimensions, RRP and promotional code/description all point to a genuine Zanzibar.

Anyway, I rang them about this when I received the light and was told that they clearly state in the T&Cs section of their site that the photos are only 'representative' of their products. I did argue the case that this light was missing a whole arm (5 not 6 as per photo) and had no top ring (as per photo). They stuck to their guns. I mentioned that I thought this light was not a Zanzibar at all as it was a lot smaller - they got agressive and said it was and that Zanzibar had stopped making 6 lights (not sure I believe that!). I mentioned that their dimensions shown were correct for a real zanzibar but incorrect for the one they sent - they refused to accept the manufacturer dimensions on the packaging and eventually agreed to 'measure it personally' and get back to me. I'm awaiting their reply.

The way I was treated leads me to believe that they'll come back with another excuse (if at all). So what are my rights here? They told me on the phone that legally it is perfectly ok to show a picture they have up - is this true? My gut feeling says I should press forward on the 'incorrect dimensions' angle if they do not get back to me & turn up and collect the light. I guess at that stage I'd need to issue a CC chargeback and contact the OFT? The one silver lining in all this is that I made a backup of their webpage using an free independant online service that can be used as evidence if I have a case.

Anyway, thanks for reading guys - any views?

Freddie_Snowbits

If you bought it on a website and you are within 7 days of reciept, Distance Selling Rules apply. Someone will be along shortly to explain more.

maninthestreet

Was it actually described as a Zanzibar light?

quincross

Freddie_Snowbits wrote: »

If you bought it on a website and you are within 7 days of reciept, Distance Selling Rules apply. Someone will be along shortly to explain more.

You're right but under DSR unless the item is defective/incorrect I am still liable for postage costs. The question is how misdescribed does it have to be to count? Are you able to post a picture of a genuine product that's very similar and get away with sending a copy?

quincross

maninthestreet wrote: »

Was it actually described as a Zanzibar light?

Yes...I think...cut and paste description for the light on Lightsaver below

---

Range Code: Zanzibar Promotion
Part Number: ZAN3BL
Dimensions: D460 x H410mm
Maximum Wattage: 3 x 60w candle lamps (included) (Supplied F.O.C.)
Description: The Classic Zanzibar range finished in wrought iron at even lower prices!!
Availability: In Stock

---

peachyprice

Is this the right link?

http://www.lightsaver.co.uk/shop/showitem.php?item=ZAN5AB

quincross

peachyprice wrote: »

Is this the right link?....

Thanks! Yep that'd be the one and it shows a genuine Zanzibar 6 light in the picture, which in fact turned out to be the very similar 'copy' you can find across the web (search 5 light on thelightingsuperstore . co . uk, which also has the genuine Zanzibar's listed under 6 light). They are almost identical except for quality and a few tell-tail signs - like size (5cm smaller), finials and top loop. If you didn't know the difference you'd think you had a bargin.

I reckon their advert & picture is misleading to say the least - they say not. But is it enough to get a charge back on my CC under TD and DSR?