A while ago, I ordered #Prada denim shorts. They were available both on the official website and through other trusted online retailers. Yes, Prada is among those luxury brands available both on its official website and other platforms.
I first checked them on the official website. But then I searched more and found them on different websites. It didn’t take long to decide where to place my order—I chose a wholesaler. Why? I was not sure about the size. And sizing, especially when it comes to Prada and its sister brand Miu Miu, is a tricky thing.
Prada's official e-shop has the same policies as Miu Miu. If you are not fully satisfied with the order, you can only return it. The brand doesn't provide an exchange option.
To exchange the item you need to return in first, and then place a new order. To return it, you need to send an e-mail request and wait for further updates (which was quick enough with my few previous returns). It usually takes around 7-10 days for the brands to process the refund from the moment you've sent the item back. After 1-3 working days, the refund will appear back in your bank account.
So, it will take you around 10 days to place a new order if the intention was to exchange the size and you are waiting for the previous payment to be used again. If the item is still there.
Because I was not sure about the size, the main priority for me was a fast exchange, which was offered by a Prada partner. Their procedure is absolutely hassle-free—you submit an exchange request online and can send your order back even the same day if you choose to bring it to a courier pick-up point. With the request you also book your preferred size.
That's why, when given the opportunity to order elsewhere with a better policy, I never shop at prada.com if I have an opportunity to buy it in other e-place.
How much could Prada possibly lose while having complicated policies? Brands usually provide at least a 40% discount to wholesalers from the retail price. This means that with one pair of shorts costing 950 euros, the brand could potentially lose at least 380 euros.
When details matter, complicated policies could be costing the brand significant revenue:)
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