Rage over age discrimination at retail store
RIVONIA - A RIVERCLUB resident was furious after she was allegedly discriminated against after trying to open an account at a Rage store in Rivonia.
Elke Jaquet (72) said she was a frequent customer at the store and finally decided to open an account. “I was surprised to get an SMS notifying me that my account application was declined,” said Jaquet. She then decided to call the head office of the store to find out what their reason was for declining her application.
“The reason given to me was so unbelievable that I asked her to repeat it,” said Jaquet. She said the woman on the other side of the line simply told her that she could tell from her ID that she was too old. “She said ‘you are too old’ and that was it,” added Jaquet.
She said the woman told her there was nothing that she could do to assist her. “She told me it was the store’s policy,” explained Jaquet.
“She said no one above the age of 65 is allowed to open an account with the store. I felt very insulted. This was blatant discrimination. I don’t see the purpose for this ridiculous rule.”
She added that the incident was one of the most insulting experiences she’s ever had to endure. Jaquet felt the store should at least let their customers know that they did not serve customers over 65 years old.
“I’m sure all their senior customers can’t wait to hear about their exciting policy,” she said.
The store’s director, Karen Marais said the aim of the store’s policy was to protect both the consumer and the credit provider. She said it was drafted in conjunction with the Credit Bureau regulations and extensive research was conducted prior to the implementation of the policy.
“Rage aims to deliver superb customer care and to provide a great product to all ages,” added Marais.
“At no stage will Rage consciously discriminate against any person.”
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