Online retailer cancels order then relists items at higher price - can they do this?

saygoodbyetothese

I ordered 3 items from a marketplace business seller on a well-known website a couple of days ago. I thought I was getting a very good deal (!) - the total with postage was around £10 for all the items.

Today I have received an email saying that the items were mispriced by their computer system in error and that they have cancelled my order and will issue a refund. They have immediately re-listed the items, which now total approx £60ish. Are they allowed to do this??

Reading the consumer law guidance on the web I know the situation in shops is different (i.e. having the stock in store is an "offer to treat" and they don't have to sell at that price), however I don't know how this applies to online purchases.

From my knowledge of contract law there has been an offer, acceptance and consideration (payment) so we entered into a contract and they have to fulfil it...?

I'd really appreciate some advice please

withabix

They are entitled to do what they have done.

Move on.

unholyangel

Depends when a legally binding contract is formed.

Some websites make the mistake of saying upon payment/confirmation email. Most retailers however say that a contract isnt formed until the goods have been sent.....thus allowing for errors.

saygoodbyetothese

Ah well... worth a try I guess. Thanks for the info :beer:

Horseunderwater

In a word, yes. It happens. However, you should be able to leave factual feedback in a couple of days or so. Look on your account under orders and when it shows up, leave feedback.
Frances