Japan Home ‘shocked and distressed’ after selling ‘used’ thermometer

Woman finds name handwritten on the back of a newly purchased thermometer from Japan Home. Photos: Michelle Teo/Facebook
Woman finds name handwritten on the back of a newly purchased thermometer from Japan Home. Photos: Michelle Teo/Facebook

A home essentials chain said today it was “shocked and distressed” to learn that it might have sold a used digital thermometer to a customer at its Sengkang outlet. 

Japan Home said today it has suspended sales of the digital thermometer as it investigates the matter reported by a customer online. The retailer also said in its statement that it was in touch with its importer and supplier to look into possible product tampering.

“Whether it be a case of deliberate tampering or sabotage prank, we are determined to find out at which point of the supply chain the tempering occurred, and if possible trace any evidence to the culprit,” it said. 

That statement came two days after Teo complained publicly about her purchase. 

According to Teo, she found the words “Tiffany Lim” and “3J33” scribbled in blue ink on one of two digital thermometers she bought Saturday from Japan Home’s outlet at the Compass One shopping center. Teo returned to the store the next day and obtained a refund for both items. 

“This is ridiculous and gross on so many levels. How can Japan Home be selling a USED thermometer during such times, when we are supposed to be practicing good hygiene habits?” her post read. 

In her online complaint, she urged netizens to be more careful when buying things from the chain. She did not say if she had checked if the other thermometer she purchased appeared used as well.

“A thermometer is something very personal. At such a crucial time, when the government is advocating good hygiene habits, promoting social distancing, and with everyone being extra careful because of COVID-19, we have Japan Home selling used thermometers as if it isn’t a big deal.”

The company said it apologized directly to her.

“Right after receiving this feedback, we managed to get in touch with the customer to make immediate restitution for her unfortunate encounter at our store and inconvenience,” it said. “We want to apologise to her once again for the bad experience.”

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