Experience with CaterEQ/Adexa: A Cautionary Tale
This account details my experience purchasing and returning a microwave oven from CaterEQ (also operating as Adexa). My aim is to inform potential customers about the challenges I faced with their customer support and returns process.
The Purchase and Initial Problem
On December 8, 2025, I ordered a microwave oven from CaterEQ. The item arrived on December 10, but upon opening the packaging, I discovered the glass door was smashed. I immediately emailed CaterEQ with photographs documenting the damage.
Customer Support Difficulties
After sending the initial email, I received no response. I made numerous phone calls to CaterEQ, but none were answered. Growing concerned, I researched the company online and found many negative reviews, confirming my suspicions about their reliability. I also discovered that CaterEQ is a rebrand of Adexa; their websites are nearly identical except for branding. I found a sales number on the Adexa site (029 2271 0928) and, despite a warning that it was not for support, managed to speak with a sales operator. This person offered to pass my issue to the “Returns Team.”
Frustrating Communications
Over the following days, I received several “Ticket resolved” notifications from CaterEQ with no explanation or actual resolution. I replied to each, explaining that my issue was not resolved. Eventually, I received a response stating that the photographs I sent could not be opened (they were standard JPG files). After repeated attempts, I used both the Adexa web form and live chat to resend the images.
Return Instructions and Delays
On December 15, 2025, I finally received instructions for returning the item. The steps included:
• Packaging the item in its original box
• Removing all other tracking labels
• Printing and attaching a returns label
• Sending a photo of the packaged item with the label attached
• Confirming my address and availability within a 14-day window
• Indicating whether I wanted a replacement or a refund
I followed these instructions, and DPD collected the package from my property on December 22, 2025. Due to the Christmas holiday, the package was delivered to CaterEQ/Adexa on December 29 at 12:02.
Continued Lack of Response
Despite proof of delivery, the company’s order system continued to show “Awaiting Return.” My emails and live chat messages went unanswered.
On January 6, 2026, after being told repeatedly that the item had not been received, I sent over 237 messages via web forms and live chat, hoping for a response.
That afternoon, I received a phone call from CaterEQ/Adexa stating they had not received the item. I contacted DPD, who provided photos and the name of the person who signed for the delivery.
I forwarded this evidence to customer support.
Resolution
On January 6, 2026, at 15:39, I received an email from CaterEQ confirming the microwave had been returned.
The following day, January 7, I received a refund for the returned goods.
Recommendations
Based on my experience, I strongly advise caution when considering purchases from CaterEQ or Adexa.
Here are my recommendations for others:
• Research company reviews before making a purchase.
• Document all communications and keep copies of emails, photos, and delivery confirmations.
• Use multiple channels (email, web forms, live chat, phone) to contact support.
• Be persistent.
Be aware of return deadlines and keep track of all correspondence.
8. Dezember 2025
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