POPLA Rejected

KD1993

Is it worth going back to these guest relations guys with another response? Or should I now just email the CEO?

I don’t want to come across too hostile so I was thinking of going back with something like this...

Thank you for your email.

I am disappointed to hear that you are unwilling to assist me in this matter and would instead allow me to be dragged through court by your overzealous agent.

The signage on site clearly states that ParkingEye operate at the behest of the landowner. I would like to assume that such a well established brand would indeed own the land on which it is based. Therefore as per terms of the contract with ParkingEye you have full authority to override any charge imposed by them.

Although the occasion of my visit was to the TableTable, I often use your other brand, PremierInn, for my business travel needs and would like to continue doing so however I am not willing to do so until the matter with ParkingEye is settled. As previously stated my attempt to reason with ParkingEye was met with stubborn refusal to see anything other than an opportunity to profit from my misfortune and I am now at risk of being summoned to court, at further expense to myself. I greatly wish to avoid any lengthy court battle therefore I insist that you contact your agent to dismiss the charge.

Kind Regards,

Umkomaas

Is it worth going back to these guest relations guys with another response? Or should I now just email the CEO?

There's no prescribed formula for dealing with landowners. Your suggested approach still leaves open the door to the CEO if your follow up letter draws a further blank.

Why not ask in your letter whether the landowner can confirm, or otherwise, whether they have provided PE with express consent to pursue parking charges through the court system. Their answer will determine your future decision making in calling the landowner as a witness in any potential court case involving this charge.

See how it goes.

Snakes_Belly

You have had platitudes from the restaurant and the Guest Relation's Management Team. You could have another go but I think that they will still sing the same tune. It may be useful as a means to obtain the information mentioned Umkomaas's post.

Have you still got your receipt?

Le_Kirk

You haven't been summonsed to court, it is not a criminal matter (you are being taken to the small claims court) and it is not a lengthy battle, small claims procedures often take less than 10 minutes. What is lengthy is the time taken to research and prepare defence and witness statement. You might want to add to your letter that you can no longer afford to eat at TableTable if every meal comes with a £100 surcharge!

KD1993

I’ve revised the end a little bit, it’s worth another try even as other have said to obtain more information.

Apologies but I can’t quote as am on mobile and it doesn’t work properly.

And no unfortunately I don’t have the receipt, I would’ve paid cash and not asked for one.

1505grandad

My family are always taking photos/video when we are out and about, including restaurants. If you were with other people any chance that happened?. If so and one shows people having a good time perhaps include it instead as you have no receipt emphasising regret that it cost extra £100?

Coupon-mad

Why are you omitting the vital phrase PARKING EYE USER MANUAL in your responses?

KD1993

OK took a bit of a break as thought I’d see what happened next and I got nowhere with Whitbread guest relations guys. Today I got a “Final Notice” letter from PE so I’m going to go back to the actual restaurant itself and kick up a fuss again.

I know someone mentioned to email the CEO of whitbread but I’m not sure what exactly I’d need to put in there.

Egbert_Nobacon

Stop dealing with the monkeys and contact the organ grinder.
This was the advice in post 15 some 6 weeks ago.

It’s easy just explain to the CEO your predicament and how disappointed you are with the lack of help from her branch manager.
How you and your friends, who are regular customers do not feel able to return if your meals come with a £100 surcharge .

You can keep it polite but be firm.
Do this ASAP.

KD1993

Got an email back within a day, fine will be cancelled no further action from my part!

Thanks guys!