I think OP has a right to be annoyed. Obviously mistakes happen and most fault lies with the government for putting everyone through all this, but when he reached out by phone to get the transfer number and was denied even that, I think that's a load of bull/not a valid excuse. Plus taking that long to initially get back to him, then ghosting after he got in contact, up until he makes this post... like c'mon. I know things were crazy but other retailers that move WAY more volume, had their storefronts closed maybe a few days all those months. Me and my friends had no trouble getting transfer #s from those other retailers by phone or email. Also based on dates/transfer #'s, FOC took weeks longer to initiate transfers than bigger retailers! Even though it was FOC that had their storefront closed for weeks just to "deal with online orders".
I called FOC twice during their storefront being closed to ask for my transfer numbers. First time I called, the guy was cool and it went so smooth. Gave me both numbers, no problem, took maybe two-three minutes. When I called the second time, buddy on the phone was NOT helpful. Was told "I have (7? I think he said lol) thousand of transfers in the back, I can't take the time to look yours up." I told him I called a week ago and the other guy gave it to me with no issues, to which he replies "We're short staffed today, email us and MAYBE someone can make some time and reply." Whether you have 1 thousand or 10 thousand transfers in the back, aren't you looking up the same info in a computer to find the number? It's not like you have to go through them physically.. How many excuses are you going to make, and telling me even if I email them, I still might not get a response with the #? Was then assured that if I had gotten the FOC order # shipping/pick-up email confirmation, it meant the transfer was put through. I called to confirm with the horsies, ya that wasn't true. I've spent thousands of dollars at your store in the last year, give me two minutes of your time instead of excuses? Isn't the main reason you're so busy is because the business is making a lot of revenue, so instead of valuing those same patrons, no give em lousy excuses.
It sucks because most (though not all) of my in-person experiences at FOC have been good, some of the guys there are really cool and super helpful. It's sad seeing what's happened to my once favourite local store in these past few months. I'm still conflicted about whether I'll shop there again, but if I do, it's going to be in person with the product in my hand (treating them like Hero Outdoors lmao) and cash which means it won't be large purchases. And I definitely won't be referring FOC to people anymore, they've totally lost that trust. Also it depends on whether they do actually send out an email explaining the CC catastrophe. I often think about all those customers who aren't on CGN, having no idea their cards/identities may have been compromised. Man up and do the right thing here. What's with not doing the right thing until a big enough stink is made online/on CGN for others to see?
A theory: The constant government gun grabs and scarcity mindset has led retailers to believe there will be guaranteed profit, regardless of how they treat their customer base.
