Phones 4 U query

[Anonymous]

Terrible news that P4U has gone into administration but does this mean that all pre-orders for the 6 have been lost?

[jonsie]

I certainly hope that happens. Customers will be disappointed but hopefully not out of pocket.

[Anonymous]

I agree! Certainly as the number of pre orders being cancelled is likely to result in a rush on existing availability. I wonder if the Phones4u allocation will just be given to Apple Stores or how it will be distributed.

[viridis]

Wow, if record numbers of iPhone deposits couldn't save them, they really were in a worse way than thought.
For example last year's release of xbox and ps4 saved game.
But yes, the writing was on the wall for p4u for a long time. It really gets me how these big companies seem to go pop just as staff are planning Christmas.
Very sad for these workers.

[viridis]

I wouldn't say the blame lies at Apple, Samsung or any other manufacturers door.
I've had flagships every year/2 years for over a decade and if anything, costs are cheaper now than ever considering the stuff you're getting. The problem in p4u case is, they are the worst phone company for targeted sales and pushy sales techniques, and many shoppers know this.

[Cleoriff]

According to BBC news this morning...the reason for liquidation was due to networks pulling out of giving contracts to Phone4 U...What hasn't been discussed as yet... are the reasons that networks dropped out?..

It was stated however that existing customers are contracted to the networks so have no problem. Same with those who have insurance...as that is via a third party....

Customers who have ordered ANY phone and not yet received it...will have to wait and see ....sadly...:smileysad:

[L_W_Ward]

I have just found this if it helps anyone:

http://www.macrumors.com/2014/09/15/phones4u-iphone-6/

[jonsie]

It was reported that customers who had paid an upfront fee for phones ordered would get the money back. 

[Anonymous]

Aodhan O’Donnell, Interim Chief Executive of the Consumer Council said:

“The announcement that Phones 4u is in administration has left many of its customers wondering what their rights are now.  The Consumer Council has produced a short guide for consumers on some of the key questions and concerns that Phones 4u customers might have.  This is available on our website (www.consumercouncil.org.uk) or by calling us on 0800 121 6022. 

“We are hopeful that most of Phones 4u’s customers will be unaffected by this.  The company has said that mobile contracts will be unaffected as the phone networks will continue to provide mobile services to these customers as per their contract.  Orders already placed for new phones, but not yet dispatched (for example, the new iPhone 6), will be cancelled and Phones 4u should refund any money paid.  Warranties and insurance obtained through Phones 4u should also be protected – warranties should continue to be honoured by the manufacturers and, as we understand it, insurance is provided by a separate company.

“An administrator is currently being appointed to handle Phones 4u’s affairs and we expect further announcements on how the administrator intends to proceed.  In the meantime, we would recommend that Phones 4u customers gather together any paperwork they have in relation to transactions with the company, such as contracts, receipts, credit or Visa card receipts (as purchases made using this method have additional protection) and insurance policies and keep these in a safe place until such announcements have been made by the administrator.  Should Phones 4 u eventually become insolvent our ‘Safer Ways to Pay’ booklet provides guidance for consumers on what to do. 

“In the meantime, if consumers have particular concerns, ahead of any further announcements, they can contact Consumerline for advice regarding goods and services on 0300 123 6262”

[MI5]

Lots of "should's" in there !!

[jonsie]

Hope the statements bring a little consolation to customers but I wouldn't feel any relief until the money was back in my hands.