Flipkart has recently advertised the iPhone 13 for a staggering price of just IN ₹11 in a bold promotional move ahead of its Big Billion Days sale. However, this appealing offer has generated considerable backlash from consumers who believe the promotional approach misled them.
Many customers voiced their dissatisfaction on social media, questioning the fairness and transparency of such marketing promotions.
What Was the Promotion Deal That Disappointed Many?
Flipkart launched a promotional event called ‘Fastest Fingers Fast’, encouraging customers to purchase the iPhone 13 at an unbeatable price during a limited-time window around 11 PM. Expectations ran high, with many shoppers aiming to take advantage of this extraordinary discount. However, the excitement quickly turned to disappointment when the smartphone allegedly sold out within minutes. It resulted in numerous customers being unable to make a purchase.
Several frustrated users reported that despite their attempts to purchase the iPhone at IN ₹11, their orders were canceled shortly thereafter. Additionally, some faced technical glitches during the ordering process, which further complicated their shopping experience.
What Were the Customer’s Responses?
The response on social media was immediate and outspoken. Users took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their discontent. A user described the promotion as the ‘marketing gimmick’ (marketing scam) of the year. Furthermore, comments flooded in, with numerous individuals perceiving the promotion as a clear case of injustice towards consumers.
Another user took to the X and shared her phone’s screen recording and an image that displayed the product getting canceled. She further tweeted, “Flipkart first made offers and then canceled the orders before the period ended. After being a big online shopping site, this kind of fraud is wrong. Proper action should be taken”.
Successful Transactions of iPhone 13 At IN ₹11
Despite the negative feedback, a small number of users reported success in securing the iPhone 13 at the promotional price. Screenshots of these successful transactions began circulating online, with some expressing appreciation for the ‘incredible offer’. However, these positive stories were largely overshadowed by a wave of complaints.
What Was the Response from Flipkart Support?
In response to the backlash, Flipkart Support took to social media to address customer concerns on social media. They clarified that the IN ₹ 11 offer was claimed by the first three customers who acted quickly. They reassured users that more deals would be available every day at 9 PM and 11 PM throughout the Big Billion Days Event.
We recognize your concerns regarding the offer, the fastest fingers first offer. The ‘fastest fingers first’ promotion was secured by the initial three customers. However, there are still fantastic deals to be found, they stated.
Another Pattern of Controversy
This incident is not unique, previous flash sales have drawn criticism too, with customers accusing e-commerce platforms of using deceptive marketing practices and having limited stock availability. As the Big Billion Days Sale goes on, Flipkart plans to offer the iPhone 13 at a discounted price of IN ₹ 37,999.
The price is significantly lower than the iPhone 13 at a discounted price of IN ₹ 49,990. Rivals such as Amazon are also preparing to offer compelling discounts, increasing the challenge for Flipkart to maintain customer confidence.
Current Status of the Controversy
The recent controversy over Flipkart’s promotional offer for the iPhone 13 is a reminder of the complexities involved in e-commerce marketing strategies.
While enticing deals can draw in customers, the fallout from unmet expectations can lead to significant backlash and damage to the brand’s reputation. As consumers grow more insistent on transparency and fairness, it will be essential for platforms such as Flipkart to manage these challenges thoughtfully in their upcoming promotions.
You Can Check the Flipkart Big Billion Day Sale from Here: The Big Billion Days Sale 2024 | From 27-September-2024 | Flipkart
Mallika Sadhu is a journalist committed to revealing the raw, unfiltered truth. Mallika's work is grounded in a dedication to transparency and integrity, aiming to present clear and impactful stories that matter. Through comprehensive reporting and honest storytelling, she strives to contribute to provide narratives that genuinely inform and engage. When not dwelling in the world of journalism, she is immersed in the colors of her canvas and pages of her journal.
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