Anguish for MFI customers hit by company collapse

Dec 11 2008 by Chris Clements, Hamilton Advertiser

CUSTOMERS of MFI in Hamilton are still feeling the strain as administrators continue to review the company’s financial situation.

Hamilton gran Catherine George (49), of Church Street, told the Advertiser that a £250 sofa bed she paid for six weeks ago still hasn’t arrived.

She said: “I was told to expect the sofa bed on November 28, but it never came.

“I went on the internet as they give you a number to phone for information.

“But every time I have tried to contact them, it just rings out and no one answers.”

Mrs George visited the store on October 15 and bought the sofa bed with cash.

Her husband Hugh (55) added: “I feel rotten about the whole thing, as I wanted to have the sofa bed to let my grandchildren stay over more often with their friends.

“It was me who insisted we pay by cash, but I feel bad as if I’d paid by card it might have put us in a better position.

“Catherine told me that MFI offered her free delivery.

“And I had a funny feeling that the store was going to go bankrupt, as they never usually offer free delivery.”

Last week, the Advertiser reported how the furniture giant’s ailing fortunes were affecting Burnbank mum Deborah Coggans.

The 30-year-old mum-of-two told us how MFI had failed to honour warranties after her fridge, her dishwasher and washing machine all needed repairs.

However, following our report, MFI still haven’t made any promises to help the Coggans family.

Mrs Coggans said: “We expected someone to come and fix the dishwasher and washing machine on Monday, but no one appeared.

“I found a new number to contact but the assistant on the other line told me all warranties and guarantees have been cancelled while the administrators and a third party look into it.

“I just wish someone would listen to me.”

Two weeks ago, the administrators MCR were called in to examine MFI’s financial situation.

Customers are urged to contact MCR for information on 01405 744 813.

A notice on MFI’s website says: “Regrettably, whilst the administrators continue their review of the company’s position, all installation and delivery services remain suspended.

“This includes all remedial work, incomplete orders and replacement of damaged parts.”

MCR also stated that they are “unable to make the necessary arrangements to fulfil orders” due for delivery or installation between Thursday, November 27, and Sunday, December 7.

The notice added: “Those orders are therefore now cancelled.”

The Advertiser contacted MCR this week for comment, but they did not return our call.