Kmart product sparks outrage due to tiny detail that 'tricked' many shoppers

Kmart Australia, a favourite shopping destination for many Aussies, has recently come under fire for a product that has left customers feeling deceived.

The item in question? A stylish table lamp.

The controversy centres around a seemingly minor detail that has left many customers feeling misled and frustrated.



Jesse, a Perth resident, was thrilled when she found what she thought was the perfect table lamp at her local Kmart.

The Sundae Table Lamp, featuring a pink glass base and a whimsical lightbulb on top, seemed like the ideal addition to her living space.


SDC Images (14).png
Kmart’s $12 Sundae Table Lamp seemed like the perfect addition to any living space; however, there’s a catch. Image source: Kmart.


However, her excitement quickly turned to disappointment when she discovered that the lamp did not include the LED fairy light bulb, despite it being prominently featured on the product's packaging.

'So in the box, there was only the pink base, and I've bought this lightbulb—[does] anyone know how to get that top part that's in the picture?' Jesse asked.

'There's nothing else in the box, I don't know if I'm missing something obvious.'



The product packaging does state 'globe not included', but Jesse, like many other customers, assumed this referred to a standard light bulb, not the unique fairy light bulb featured in the product image.

The Fairy Globe LED, it turns out, is a separate product sold by Kmart for $12.

'I thought the bulb would be going inside that glass top part—not realising that in itself was a globe!' Jesse said.



Jesse's experience is not unique.

Many other customers have voiced similar complaints, accusing Kmart of deceptive marketing practices.

'Wow that “Globe Not Included” is nice and tucked away isn't it—what a joke!' one customer commented on social media.

'Whilst the box does state the globe isn't included, it does feel deceptive as it's not a standard style globe and gives the impression the fancy globe is part of the lamp,' another customer added.

While a third advised: 'Take it back and get a refund!'

However, not everyone agreed. Some customers have defended Kmart, arguing that the product packaging clearly states what is included.

'The box does say what's included. It's very rare for a lamp to already have the globe,' one customer pointed out.

While another added: 'Kmart sells the globe and also other globes to mix and match. It says on the box that the globe is not included.'
Key Takeaways
  • Jesse, a shopper from Perth discovered that the 'perfect' table lamp she bought from Kmart did not include the LED fairy light bulb shown on the box.
  • Although the box stated 'globe not included', Jesse and other shoppers thought a standard bulb would suffice and did not realise the specific globe depicted was an additional purchase.
  • The situation sparked a debate on social media, with some criticising Kmart for what they perceived as deceptive packaging and others defending the store's clarity in stating that the globe was sold separately.
Members, what are your thoughts on this story? Have you experienced something similar before? Share your thoughts and stories with us in the comments below.
 
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Kmart Australia, a favourite shopping destination for many Aussies, has recently come under fire for a product that has left customers feeling deceived.

The item in question? A stylish table lamp.

The controversy centres around a seemingly minor detail that has left many customers feeling misled and frustrated.



Jesse, a Perth resident, was thrilled when she found what she thought was the perfect table lamp at her local Kmart.

The Sundae Table Lamp, featuring a pink glass base and a whimsical lightbulb on top, seemed like the ideal addition to her living space.


View attachment 39801
Kmart’s $12 Sundae Table Lamp seemed like the perfect addition to any living space; however, there’s a catch. Image source: Kmart.


However, her excitement quickly turned to disappointment when she discovered that the lamp did not include the LED fairy light bulb, despite it being prominently featured on the product's packaging.

'So in the box, there was only the pink base, and I've bought this lightbulb—[does] anyone know how to get that top part that's in the picture?' Jesse asked.

'There's nothing else in the box, I don't know if I'm missing something obvious.'



The product packaging does state 'globe not included', but Jesse, like many other customers, assumed this referred to a standard light bulb, not the unique fairy light bulb featured in the product image.

The Fairy Globe LED, it turns out, is a separate product sold by Kmart for $12.

'I thought the bulb would be going inside that glass top part—not realising that in itself was a globe!' Jesse said.



Jesse's experience is not unique.

Many other customers have voiced similar complaints, accusing Kmart of deceptive marketing practices.

'Wow that “Globe Not Included” is nice and tucked away isn't it—what a joke!' one customer commented on social media.

'Whilst the box does state the globe isn't included, it does feel deceptive as it's not a standard style globe and gives the impression the fancy globe is part of the lamp,' another customer added.

While a third advised: 'Take it back and get a refund!'

However, not everyone agreed. Some customers have defended Kmart, arguing that the product packaging clearly states what is included.

'The box does say what's included. It's very rare for a lamp to already have the globe,' one customer pointed out.

While another added: 'Kmart sells the globe and also other globes to mix and match. It says on the box that the globe is not included.'
Key Takeaways

  • Jesse, a shopper from Perth discovered that the 'perfect' table lamp she bought from Kmart did not include the LED fairy light bulb shown on the box.
  • Although the box stated 'globe not included', Jesse and other shoppers thought a standard bulb would suffice and did not realise the specific globe depicted was an additional purchase.
  • The situation sparked a debate on social media, with some criticising Kmart for what they perceived as deceptive packaging and others defending the store's clarity in stating that the globe was sold separately.
Members, what are your thoughts on this story? Have you experienced something similar before? Share your thoughts and stories with us in the comments below.

Kmart Australia, a favourite shopping destination for many Aussies, has recently come under fire for a product that has left customers feeling deceived.

The item in question? A stylish table lamp.

The controversy centres around a seemingly minor detail that has left many customers feeling misled and frustrated.



Jesse, a Perth resident, was thrilled when she found what she thought was the perfect table lamp at her local Kmart.

The Sundae Table Lamp, featuring a pink glass base and a whimsical lightbulb on top, seemed like the ideal addition to her living space.


View attachment 39801
Kmart’s $12 Sundae Table Lamp seemed like the perfect addition to any living space; however, there’s a catch. Image source: Kmart.


However, her excitement quickly turned to disappointment when she discovered that the lamp did not include the LED fairy light bulb, despite it being prominently featured on the product's packaging.

'So in the box, there was only the pink base, and I've bought this lightbulb—[does] anyone know how to get that top part that's in the picture?' Jesse asked.

'There's nothing else in the box, I don't know if I'm missing something obvious.'



The product packaging does state 'globe not included', but Jesse, like many other customers, assumed this referred to a standard light bulb, not the unique fairy light bulb featured in the product image.

The Fairy Globe LED, it turns out, is a separate product sold by Kmart for $12.

'I thought the bulb would be going inside that glass top part—not realising that in itself was a globe!' Jesse said.



Jesse's experience is not unique.

Many other customers have voiced similar complaints, accusing Kmart of deceptive marketing practices.

'Wow that “Globe Not Included” is nice and tucked away isn't it—what a joke!' one customer commented on social media.

'Whilst the box does state the globe isn't included, it does feel deceptive as it's not a standard style globe and gives the impression the fancy globe is part of the lamp,' another customer added.

While a third advised: 'Take it back and get a refund!'

However, not everyone agreed. Some customers have defended Kmart, arguing that the product packaging clearly states what is included.

'The box does say what's included. It's very rare for a lamp to already have the globe,' one customer pointed out.

While another added: 'Kmart sells the globe and also other globes to mix and match. It says on the box that the globe is not included.'
Key Takeaways

  • Jesse, a shopper from Perth discovered that the 'perfect' table lamp she bought from Kmart did not include the LED fairy light bulb shown on the box.
  • Although the box stated 'globe not included', Jesse and other shoppers thought a standard bulb would suffice and did not realise the specific globe depicted was an additional purchase.
  • The situation sparked a debate on social media, with some criticising Kmart for what they perceived as deceptive packaging and others defending the store's clarity in stating that the globe was sold separately.
Members, what are your thoughts on this story? Have you experienced something similar before? Share your thoughts and stories with us in the comments below.
 
Kmart Australia, a favourite shopping destination for many Aussies, has recently come under fire for a product that has left customers feeling deceived.

The item in question? A stylish table lamp.

The controversy centres around a seemingly minor detail that has left many customers feeling misled and frustrated.



Jesse, a Perth resident, was thrilled when she found what she thought was the perfect table lamp at her local Kmart.

The Sundae Table Lamp, featuring a pink glass base and a whimsical lightbulb on top, seemed like the ideal addition to her living space.


View attachment 39801
Kmart’s $12 Sundae Table Lamp seemed like the perfect addition to any living space; however, there’s a catch. Image source: Kmart.


However, her excitement quickly turned to disappointment when she discovered that the lamp did not include the LED fairy light bulb, despite it being prominently featured on the product's packaging.

'So in the box, there was only the pink base, and I've bought this lightbulb—[does] anyone know how to get that top part that's in the picture?' Jesse asked.

'There's nothing else in the box, I don't know if I'm missing something obvious.'



The product packaging does state 'globe not included', but Jesse, like many other customers, assumed this referred to a standard light bulb, not the unique fairy light bulb featured in the product image.

The Fairy Globe LED, it turns out, is a separate product sold by Kmart for $12.

'I thought the bulb would be going inside that glass top part—not realising that in itself was a globe!' Jesse said.



Jesse's experience is not unique.

Many other customers have voiced similar complaints, accusing Kmart of deceptive marketing practices.

'Wow that “Globe Not Included” is nice and tucked away isn't it—what a joke!' one customer commented on social media.

'Whilst the box does state the globe isn't included, it does feel deceptive as it's not a standard style globe and gives the impression the fancy globe is part of the lamp,' another customer added.

While a third advised: 'Take it back and get a refund!'

However, not everyone agreed. Some customers have defended Kmart, arguing that the product packaging clearly states what is included.

'The box does say what's included. It's very rare for a lamp to already have the globe,' one customer pointed out.

While another added: 'Kmart sells the globe and also other globes to mix and match. It says on the box that the globe is not included.'
Key Takeaways

  • Jesse, a shopper from Perth discovered that the 'perfect' table lamp she bought from Kmart did not include the LED fairy light bulb shown on the box.
  • Although the box stated 'globe not included', Jesse and other shoppers thought a standard bulb would suffice and did not realise the specific globe depicted was an additional purchase.
  • The situation sparked a debate on social media, with some criticising Kmart for what they perceived as deceptive packaging and others defending the store's clarity in stating that the globe was sold separately.
Members, what are your thoughts on this story? Have you experienced something similar before? Share your thoughts and stories with us in the comments below.
I did buy this lamp from Kmart. When first looking at the box yes, I did think the globe came with the base. There was a lamp on display so I quickly realised that the box wasn’t big enough and opened a box. The globes were close by for sale and, I love the lamp. It’s in the spare room for guests and has a lovely warm welcoming light with a convenient on/off switch on the cord. Still a great price, lamp plus globe.
 
I did buy this lamp from Kmart. When first looking at the box yes, I did think the globe came with the base. There was a lamp on display so I quickly realised that the box wasn’t big enough and opened a box. The globes were close by for sale and, I love the lamp. It’s in the spare room for guests and has a lovely warm welcoming light with a convenient on/off switch on the cord. Still a great price, lamp plus globe.
I will look for one next time I am in Kmart .
 
Kmart Australia, a favourite shopping destination for many Aussies, has recently come under fire for a product that has left customers feeling deceived.

The item in question? A stylish table lamp.

The controversy centres around a seemingly minor detail that has left many customers feeling misled and frustrated.



Jesse, a Perth resident, was thrilled when she found what she thought was the perfect table lamp at her local Kmart.

The Sundae Table Lamp, featuring a pink glass base and a whimsical lightbulb on top, seemed like the ideal addition to her living space.


View attachment 39801
Kmart’s $12 Sundae Table Lamp seemed like the perfect addition to any living space; however, there’s a catch. Image source: Kmart.


However, her excitement quickly turned to disappointment when she discovered that the lamp did not include the LED fairy light bulb, despite it being prominently featured on the product's packaging.

'So in the box, there was only the pink base, and I've bought this lightbulb—[does] anyone know how to get that top part that's in the picture?' Jesse asked.

'There's nothing else in the box, I don't know if I'm missing something obvious.'



The product packaging does state 'globe not included', but Jesse, like many other customers, assumed this referred to a standard light bulb, not the unique fairy light bulb featured in the product image.

The Fairy Globe LED, it turns out, is a separate product sold by Kmart for $12.

'I thought the bulb would be going inside that glass top part—not realising that in itself was a globe!' Jesse said.



Jesse's experience is not unique.

Many other customers have voiced similar complaints, accusing Kmart of deceptive marketing practices.

'Wow that “Globe Not Included” is nice and tucked away isn't it—what a joke!' one customer commented on social media.

'Whilst the box does state the globe isn't included, it does feel deceptive as it's not a standard style globe and gives the impression the fancy globe is part of the lamp,' another customer added.

While a third advised: 'Take it back and get a refund!'

However, not everyone agreed. Some customers have defended Kmart, arguing that the product packaging clearly states what is included.

'The box does say what's included. It's very rare for a lamp to already have the globe,' one customer pointed out.

While another added: 'Kmart sells the globe and also other globes to mix and match. It says on the box that the globe is not included.'
Key Takeaways

  • Jesse, a shopper from Perth discovered that the 'perfect' table lamp she bought from Kmart did not include the LED fairy light bulb shown on the box.
  • Although the box stated 'globe not included', Jesse and other shoppers thought a standard bulb would suffice and did not realise the specific globe depicted was an additional purchase.
  • The situation sparked a debate on social media, with some criticising Kmart for what they perceived as deceptive packaging and others defending the store's clarity in stating that the globe was sold separately.
Members, what are your thoughts on this story? Have you experienced something similar before? Share your thoughts and stories with us in the comments below.
I find it deceptive: even though it may say "globe not included". Should have said in "large" letters on the front "for illustation purposes only....globe to be purchased separately"! I showed the picture to my husband and he thought it was as shown also.
 
I find it deceptive: even though it may say "globe not included". Should have said in "large" letters on the front "for illustation purposes only....globe to be purchased separately"! I showed the picture to my husband and he thought it was as shown also.
It’s really pretty I wouldn’t mind one for my bedroom. 😊 It’s better than the last one I had.
 
I find it deceptive: even though it may say "globe not included". Should have said in "large" letters on the front "for illustation purposes only....globe to be purchased separately"! I showed the picture to my husband and he thought it was as shown also.
Have you ever bought a lamp that included the globe, I doubt it?
My niece works for Beacon Lighting, she said globes are always purchased separately.
 
I am becoming overwhelmed with all the mention of "outrage' in headlines and email headers. It just gets people all steamed up and I have to wonder why? Haven't we got enough to worry about these days without having extra worries and negativity heaped up on us? Why can't people's attention be engaged with phrases such as "Be alert when buying this product at XYZ" or maybe the packing should be labelled " XYZ Lamp Base" with recommended light bulbs, with their photos, listed on the back of the box? It's simple and neutrally phrased information. That's all customers need and want, especially in a time when there is so much else to worry about every day. So much easier than stirring up emotions with words like "outrage".
 
Just shows that we really need to read everything on the box/pack when considering buying a thing.

And yes, I've never had globes included with any lamps I've bought in the past (like with gadgets: 'batteries not included' or 'batteries sold separately ').
 
Regarding surcharges being charged on card transactions by some businesses, there are rules limiting the amount that can be charged. I have to wonder, though, given that it seems like a foregone conclusion that Australia will become a cashless society in the not too distant future, when everyone will have no option but to pay by card, whether the rules will have to change?
"Under rules currently set by the RBA and enforced by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), businesses aren't allowed to add a surcharge that's more than what it costs them to process a specific type of payment." I hope that if we do become a cashless society, the banks won't won't see it as an opportunity to add another cash cow to their their bottom line as they are the ones pushing the "Cashless Society" barrow so hard to government.
"The ban on excessive payment surcharges applies to payments made via these methods:
EFTPOS - debit and prepaid
MasterCard - credit, debit, and prepaid
Visa - credit, debit, and prepaid
The RBA estimates the average cost of processing different payment methods to be:
EFTPOS - less than 0.5 per cent
Visa and Mastercard debit cards - between 0.5 per cent and 1 per cent
Visa and Mastercard credit cards - between 1 per cent and 1.5 per cent
If you're not a fan of carrying around cash, you can choose to only buy from businesses that don't charge you to pay by card.
Credit cards, particularly those that offer significant rewards, tend to attract higher surcharges than other payment types, so paying by debit card is the next best option."
Source
https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/being-hit-with-card-surcharges-everywhere-you-go-these-are-the-rules-around-them/0i0ipzr5v?dlb=[2024/01/29]%20del_newsam_bau_02&did=DM33368&cid=sbsnews:edm:acnewsam:relation:news:na:na
 
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Kmart Australia, a favourite shopping destination for many Aussies, has recently come under fire for a product that has left customers feeling deceived.

The item in question? A stylish table lamp.

The controversy centres around a seemingly minor detail that has left many customers feeling misled and frustrated.



Jesse, a Perth resident, was thrilled when she found what she thought was the perfect table lamp at her local Kmart.

The Sundae Table Lamp, featuring a pink glass base and a whimsical lightbulb on top, seemed like the ideal addition to her living space.


View attachment 39801
Kmart’s $12 Sundae Table Lamp seemed like the perfect addition to any living space; however, there’s a catch. Image source: Kmart.


However, her excitement quickly turned to disappointment when she discovered that the lamp did not include the LED fairy light bulb, despite it being prominently featured on the product's packaging.

'So in the box, there was only the pink base, and I've bought this lightbulb—[does] anyone know how to get that top part that's in the picture?' Jesse asked.

'There's nothing else in the box, I don't know if I'm missing something obvious.'



The product packaging does state 'globe not included', but Jesse, like many other customers, assumed this referred to a standard light bulb, not the unique fairy light bulb featured in the product image.

The Fairy Globe LED, it turns out, is a separate product sold by Kmart for $12.

'I thought the bulb would be going inside that glass top part—not realising that in itself was a globe!' Jesse said.



Jesse's experience is not unique.

Many other customers have voiced similar complaints, accusing Kmart of deceptive marketing practices.

'Wow that “Globe Not Included” is nice and tucked away isn't it—what a joke!' one customer commented on social media.

'Whilst the box does state the globe isn't included, it does feel deceptive as it's not a standard style globe and gives the impression the fancy globe is part of the lamp,' another customer added.

While a third advised: 'Take it back and get a refund!'

However, not everyone agreed. Some customers have defended Kmart, arguing that the product packaging clearly states what is included.

'The box does say what's included. It's very rare for a lamp to already have the globe,' one customer pointed out.

While another added: 'Kmart sells the globe and also other globes to mix and match. It says on the box that the globe is not included.'
Key Takeaways

  • Jesse, a shopper from Perth discovered that the 'perfect' table lamp she bought from Kmart did not include the LED fairy light bulb shown on the box.
  • Although the box stated 'globe not included', Jesse and other shoppers thought a standard bulb would suffice and did not realise the specific globe depicted was an additional purchase.
  • The situation sparked a debate on social media, with some criticising Kmart for what they perceived as deceptive packaging and others defending the store's clarity in stating that the globe was sold separately.
Members, what are your thoughts on this story? Have you experienced something similar before? Share your thoughts and stories with us in the comments below.
Being so fancy you’d think the globe would have come with the lamp, but with saying that why didn’t KMart put the globes next to the lamps?
 
Being so fancy you’d think the globe would have come with the lamp, but with saying that why didn’t KMart put the globes next to the lamps?
I did buy this lamp from Kmart. When first looking at the box yes, I did think the globe came with the base. There was a lamp on display so I quickly realised that the box wasn’t big enough and opened a box. The globes were close by for sale and, I love the lamp. It’s in the spare room for guests and has a lovely warm welcoming light with a convenient on/off switch on the cord. Still a great price, lamp plus globe.
A great point, @Lesle. Like in @Bublz's case, it would have made sense to have them close by. Maybe this store had them somewhere nearby but not visible to Jesse :O
 
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