MI reported on 29 January and 12 February that brokers were angered that the expensive advertising promotion, which saw some brokers part with over £2,000, has to date produced no leads.
Dean Bainbridge from DKB Consulting took legal action agaist Premier Benefits in July 2004. He issued a small claims action, via the internet, and a judge found in his favour. Premier Benefits was forced to re-pay the deposit after he refused to make any further payments.
Bainbridge said: “I argued that they were in breach of contract because I was told the scheme cards were issued to all unions involved. On closer inspection I found that several union members had to request the card. This was a serious breach of contract and in direct contradiction to what I was told.”
Craig Heywood, customer services manager at Premier Benefits, said: “I can only assume there was a communication breakdown during the meeting as cards do have to be requested. We didn't send anyone down to the court which is why we lost.”
Steve Williams, principle at Swansea-based The Steve Williams Practice, signed a contract with Premier Benefits in April 2004 for £1,991 after being informed that it was receiving hundreds of enquiries for his area which were being met by mortgage brokers in Cardiff. He has not received a single enquiry.
When Mortgage Introducer - News asked to speak to any mortgage brokers who had enjoyed a good response from Premier Benefits’ promotion Heywood was unable to supply any names or details.
