Bash Online & Hi Stores – A Shocking Display of Incompetence and Disrespect

I rarely write reviews, but after months of pure frustration, I feel compelled to share what has been the most disappointing retail and customer service experience I’ve had in years. This review concerns both Bash Online and their so-called brand partner Hi Stores, particularly the Hi Store in Highveld Mall, Witbank.

1. The Start of the Nightmare

I initially wanted to purchase a Nintendo Switch Lite in-store from Hi Stores at Highveld Mall. To my surprise, I was told by a store consultant that they no longer stock the console. When I asked whether they could order one from another branch, I was bluntly told, “No, you have to buy it online.” It already felt like a lazy redirection, no effort, no initiative, and no willingness to even check with other stores. But I followed their instructions and ordered the console from Bash Online.

2. A Faulty Product Right Out the Box

The console arrived late, and when I finally received it, it wouldn’t turn on straight out of the box. That alone raised red flags because lithium-ion batteries degrade when left discharged too long, and it’s a well-known issue. After charging it for a while, it came on, but the battery barely lasted an hour. Then, not long after, the power button completely stopped working. In short, a defective product was sent to me.

3. Bash’s “Instant In-Store Replacement” Is a Lie

When I contacted Bash, they reassured me that I could immediately replace the faulty console in-store at any Hi branch, part of their so-called instant in-store replacement policy. Except… that was a total lie. When I went to the Hi Store in Highveld Mall, they refused to even inspect the console. I was told I’d have to send it away for 21 days for inspection before they would credit my account, not replace the item, meaning I’d have to start over, re-purchase, and wait for another delayed delivery. Absolutely absurd.

4. Weeks of False Promises and Empty Updates

After escalating the matter, Bash head office confirmed I should receive an immediate in-store replacement. They apologised for the confusion and promised the matter would be sorted. For the next four weeks, I was strung along with constant “updates” and assurances that the console would be replaced once the replacement stock arrived.

5. The Final Insult, Public Humiliation by Staff

When I was finally informed that the replacement had arrived, I went back to the store, only to be met by Sharlene and another staff member who were laughing and chatting socially behind the counter. When I approached them, they acted as though I was interrupting their day. Instead of assisting me, they snapped at me, raised their voices, and told me outright that I would not receive a replacement. Their “solution”? Return the console, wait for a credit, and then buy it again, effectively starting this entire painful process from scratch. This was done in front of other customers. I was humiliated and treated like an inconvenience rather than a paying customer simply following the instructions that Bash themselves had confirmed.

6. Repeated Pattern of Used or Damaged Stock

This isn’t even the first time I’ve had issues with this store. I previously purchased a MagSafe power bank from Hi Stores at Highveld Mall that was visibly used, complete with oily black fingerprints on the casing. When I questioned this, the staff denied it had ever been used. I returned it immediately. Clearly, this company has no quality control and may very well be reselling returned or used products as new.

7. Zero Accountability and False Advertising

Both Bash and Hi Stores have demonstrated: • Gross violation of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) by supplying defective goods and refusing to honour the replacement terms. • False advertising through an “instant replacement” policy that doesn’t exist in practice. • Utter lack of professionalism and training, with staff (especially Sharlene and her colleague) behaving rudely, condescendingly, and without any sense of customer service.

8. The Bottom Line

I’ve been patient. I’ve followed every process. I’ve given both Bash and Hi Stores every opportunity to make things right. Instead, I’ve been met with:

• Weeks of delays, • Contradictory promises, • Faulty products, • Rude staff, and • Absolute disregard for basic consumer rights.

At this point, I’m convinced Bash and Hi Stores have no respect for their customers, just excuses and deflection.

9. Final Verdict

Avoid them entirely. They sell defective or possibly used electronics, lie about their policies, and treat customers with zero dignity. If you value your money, time, or sanity, stay far away from Bash Online and Hi Stores.