Even cheaper after Black Friday. Do you get the difference back?
The shop doesn't have to give you the difference. You pay the price you agreed. But did you buy online and is your cooling-off period still running? Then you can send it back and order again at the lower price. Or simply ask first if they'll give you the difference.
How it works
When you buy something, you agree on a price. If it gets cheaper afterwards, your price stays the same. Even if it’s a day later.
But there’s a smart way out. Did you buy online? Then you have at least 14 days to change your mind from the day your parcel arrives. During that time you can send it back without a reason. And then order it again at the lower price.
Do the maths first. If returning costs €5 and the price difference is €4, you’ve gained nothing. See until when it can go back in the return checker.
Just ask first
Returns cost the shop money too. So it’s smart to email or chat first: “I see it’s cheaper now. Can you give me the difference? Otherwise I’ll send it back.” A shop doesn’t have to say yes. But often that’s easier for them than a return.
The tricky part
After Black Friday come Cyber Monday, the December deals and the January sales. Prices go up and down. Once you’ve bought something, you stop watching. And by the time you notice, your cooling-off period is often over.
On Black Friday you buy headphones for €199. On Cyber Monday they're €169. You only notice in mid-December. By then your return period has just ended.
Often asked
Does a shop have to refund the difference when the price drops?
No. The price you agreed when you bought it applies. Only if the shop itself promises a price guarantee are you entitled to it. That will be in their terms.
Can I send it back and order it again?
Yes, if you bought online and your cooling-off period is still running. You don't have to give a reason. Do watch out for return costs and the new delivery time.
And if I bought it in a regular shop?
Then there is no cooling-off period. You can only ask. Some shops do it as a service.
Was the Black Friday discount real?
The 'was' price has to be the lowest price of the past 30 days. If the price went up first so it could be discounted, the discount is misleading. You can report that to ConsuWijzer.