Electronic Products Sold During Online Flash Sale May Not Get After-sale Service

Several consumer electronics companies, including LG, Samsung, Videocon, Sony and Panasonic have said that products sold through online marketplaces without their knowledge will not be eligible for after-sale service. These companies have also asked the e-tailers to be fair in pricing.

Its effect was evident yesterday (Tuesday) during Snapdeal's Savings Day Sale and Amazon's Appiness Day. Both the companies avoided heavy discounts below the operating market price. For instance, iPhone 5s, Snapdeal's star product having an operating market price of Rs 35,000 was available for Rs 31,499 – a discount of 10%. The 'unauthorised sale' clause was brought in to avoid October 6 like situation, when brick-and-mortar retailers were agitated over heavy discounts by Flipkart on television and mobile phones.

"The flash sales by Snapdeal and Amazon were not marred by controversy or complaints by consumer electronics companies," Amit Chadha, secretary-general of the Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association, said. "During Flipkart's Big Billion Day Sale, we received complaints within the first two hours. There was complete chaos. This time around there were no such issues," he added.

Manish Sharma, managing director of Panasonic India and South Asia, said, "We have always managed the expectations of our partners and stakeholders by ensuring that their interests are taken care of. We believe e-retailers and retail outlets will continue to co-exist to create a holistic and beneficial setting for the consumer."