Unreasonable delay and poor handling of faulty electrical return

I returned a faulty Dreame Hair Gleam High-Speed Hair Dryer (R1 799) to Yuppiechef in-store (Canal Walk) on 24 December 2025, less than two weeks after delivery.

The reason for the return was that the magnetic nozzle repeatedly popped off during blow-drying, making the device impractical to use and raising concerns around safety and usability for a household electrical appliance.

At the time of return, I received written confirmation stating: “Repairs usually take between 5–7 working days before the item will be returned to you.”

At no point, either during the in-store drop-off or in any written communication, was I informed that the supplier would be closed over the festive period, or that the 5–7 working day timeframe would only begin once the product reached the supplier, rather than from the return submission or internal handling stage.

Only after following up was I advised that the supplier received the unit on 7 January 2026, meaning Yuppiechef and the supplier have now had the device longer than I had it in my possession.

Despite multiple follow-ups, communication has been slow and I am currently receiving no response, which I find unacceptable given the timelines originally communicated.

I would also like to state clearly that I am not willing to accept a repaired unit. I returned the item shortly after delivery due to a functional defect and I am unhappy with the product. Given the extended period that the device has been out of my possession, it is not reasonable to expect me to accept a repaired item.

As this is an essential household item, I was forced to purchase a replacement hairdryer while awaiting resolution, leaving me financially out of pocket. Being advised that a refund will only be considered after assessment, with repair as a possible outcome, is not reasonable under these circumstances.

I am requesting a full refund and prompt resolution of this matter.

Unfortunately, this experience has significantly undermined my confidence in purchasing electrical appliances online from Yuppiechef, particularly where after-sales handling, repair timelines, and supplier delays are involved.