Business ProfileforCompetitive Edge Products, Inc.

This transaction took place on 4/10/24 and all advertising took place on Amazon.com whereby Competitive Edge Products, Inc. (CEPI) is a registered seller with Amazon.com and a reseller of Lifetime Products. I purchased a Lifetime Model: 90143 Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set with a 9 Foot Wavy Slide from CEPI. I purchased this model, 90143 which was advertised by CEPI on Amazon.com, understanding that it was an older model. I opted for this model due to it having one, continuous slide, thicker gauge steel, and overall larger dimensions-all as advertised. I compared this model to CEPI's other newer advertised model, 91028 and determined the older model to be a better quality product. The newer model 91028 is aesthetically, mostly the same, however the manufacturer made the swing set dimensions smaller, used a thinner gauge steel, and uses a 2 piece slide, rather than 1 continuous slide. All changes were made to lighten the shipping, but in my opinion, compromises quality, which is why I chose the older model/agreed to pay more for this model. The model I selected and paid for cost $1,599.99 (w/tax= $1,711.99). It was more expensive than the newer model, 91028 that CEPI also advertised at a price of $1,398.00. CEPI shipped me the newer model, 91028. They did not inform me of this change. I did not recognize it until I had already assembled most of the swing set and didn't realize it until I unboxed the slide and found it was in 2 pieces. That's when I verified the model numbers and identified they sent me the newer model, 91028 and not the one I ordered, 90143. I brought this to CEPI's attention through Amazon.com. The owner, Charles H*****, advised me that the newer model, 91028 is what they are shipping despite model number the model number that is ordered and said they could have the product picked up. I brought to their attention that is false advertisement, deceptive sales, and a bait and switch tactic, all of which are violations of the FTC. I already had the swing assembled so disassembling and attempting to repackage was not an option. My initial request was to simply refund me the difference. They would not do it initially. I reviewed their listings on Amazon.com and CEPI continues to advertise the older model 90143 with all the features of the that model. CEPI continues to advertise the older model 90143 swing set and at a higher price than the newer model 91028 but is exclusively shipping the newer model. CEPI refunded me only $155.40, which is not the entire difference. The owner only resigned to credit the difference after many messages and a threat to file a complaint. Amazon did credit me $107 but that is a deal they are offering to all Prime customers who purchase this swing set. CEPI has admitted in writing to me that they are only shipping the newer model 91028 which has an advertised cost of $1,398.00, yet they continue to advertise model, 90143 at a higher price. Customers, like me, who have or plan to purchase model 90143 will not get what they ordered, will be deceived by the options, and will pay more for a product that they did not order. It is my opinion, based on my experience, CEPI knows most customers will not detect the difference and will not go through the hassle of returning or disputing. Based on CEPI's gross and intentional negligence, deception, false advertising, and bait and switch tactic and not taking full responsibility for their deceptive actions when raised, I'm requesting a full refund.