Latest news with #JDWilliams
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
JD Williams sent me the wrong jeans three times - then I got £70 bill for phoning them: SALLY SORTS IT
I recently decided to treat myself to a new pair of jeans from JD Williams. They cost £26 and arrived the next day. I ordered a size 12 but they delivered a size 18. I called the customer service number on the delivery note to arrange a return and reordered the size 12. The next day a second pair arrived but, again, in size 18. I called the number once more and went through the same process. The following day a third pair arrived. Another size 18! When I called again, I was advised not to reorder so they could check their stock. Then I received my mobile phone bill – it was unusually high due to out-of-plan call charges on my contract, so I checked with my network provider. They were billing me £70.72 for the calls I made to JD Williams. This is so unfair. N.S., Cheltenham. Readers' champion Sally Hamilton replies: Wallace & Gromit sprang to mind on reading your letter. 'It's the wrong trousers, Gromit! And they've gone wrong.' The fact they went wrong three times seemed, well, crackers. Perhaps JD Williams needs a Wallace-style inventor to sort out its stock management system. But more absurd still was the fact you were facing a phone bill nearly three times the price of your elusive pair of size 12 jeans for calling JD Williams to remedy the mix-up. Scam Watch Drivers should beware fake parking tickets impersonating a legitimate parking company or the council, CEL Solicitors warns. Fraudsters leave a ticket on the windscreen and victims are asked either to scan a QR code or visit a website to make a payment of around £60 to £70. But it is a fake portal, set up to get your personal and financial details. Check if the website on the ticket matches the official parking operator's address and look for spelling or format errors. If in doubt, look up the official website of the company or council and contact them. You told me the three calls totalled one hour and 40 seconds, which you described as 'ridiculous' for organising a simple return. I agree. Not surprisingly, you were stressed at the thought of a £70.72 bill – and still no jeans to show for it. I was happy to give the company a kick in the pants for you. I am pleased to say this did the trick and JD Williams' customer service swiftly contacted you to apologise for your poor experience, the hassle you faced and the costs you incurred. There had been a stock control systems issue, it admitted, which is now resolved. A spokesman said: 'We are replacing the item and dispatching this free of charge, and we have also reimbursed the cost of the calls.' When we caught up last week, you reported your size 12s had finally arrived – and fitted. All's well that ends well, that's what I say. However, your shock phone bill highlights the potential pitfalls when using a mobile to contact a retailer. This didn't cross your mind when you dialled the number printed in bold at the top of your delivery note. It began with '087', a prefix used by many companies to provide a single national phone number for customers, often for a sales or enquiry line. The service charge (the charge made by the company with the phone number) typically costs from zero to 13p a minute – 13p in JD Williams' case. But the actual amount billed depends on the access charge made by a customer's phone provider. Calls to 087 numbers often fall outside the free calls part of a package, as in your case, and are charged per minute or per call at anything from 3p to 93p a minute, depending on the provider. EE's access charge was one of the highest at 89p a minute when you made your calls (it is now 93p a minute). Your situation wasn't helped by JD Williams including two numbers on its delivery note. The 087 number you used is for orders and payments. There was also a '0345' number for enquiries. The first attracts a 13p-a-minute service charge. But 0345 numbers are charged like local calls and are included in many customers' mobile call plans – including yours. You told me the 087 number caught your eye immediately and that you didn't think to look for another. Companies using such prefixes often receive a portion of the revenue made from an access charge. You may not have flinched too much at your phone bill had your calls been dealt with speedily by JD Williams' customer service. But with more than an hour on the line in total, the price rocketed to a level that couldn't be ignored. JD Williams is keen to point out there are other options for contacting its customer service that should avoid nasty bills. In addition to its 0345 number, it offers an online chat service, email or direct messaging via X and Facebook. It is a pity that customers risk falling into an expensive trap simply because they want to speak to a human about their problem. I'm keen to hear from other readers who unwittingly have been caught out this way, so do drop me a line. Overpaid my gas bill and can't get a refund Just before the Easter weekend, I elected to pay off an outstanding £150 debt on my British Gas bill – but accidentally paid £1,500. I immediately rang to rectify the error, which had cleared out my current account. I was told it would be three to five days before I was paid back. After Easter, I still had not received the money, so rang again. Once more I was told it would be three to five days. This carried on weekly until a phone call on April 29, where I was told that the person I was speaking to could not authorise a repayment. Help! D.M., Oldham. Sally replies: British Gas had held on to your overpayment for more than a month by the time you contacted me and you were struggling financially. I asked the firm to put more energy into returning your money. It told me you had been given the wrong information about the timescale at the start. You should have been told ten working days for such repayments but also that the large sum involved required special approval. On my intervention your request was accelerated and a few days later £1,350 was repaid to your credit card – your £1,500 minus the £150 you had intended to pay. BG apologised and sent you a goodwill gesture of £75. Straight to the point I run my own business and in December my accountant told me I was due an £821.53 tax refund. In January I checked my HM Revenue and Customs account which said the refund had been made – but I haven't received it. HMRC told me it went to an account in my name but I don't have an account with the bank they claim the refund was made to. R.N., via email. Sally replies: HMRC apologises and has refunded you, along with £43.65 in late payment interest. It was previously refunded to an incorrect bank account. I own a flat which I let out until October last year and have now put up for sale. However, Octopus Energy has continued to send bills totalling £233.76 for an empty property. I paid the first three bills up to January as I know there's a standing charge. I have contacted Octopus many times and they haven't sorted it. But now a letter from a debt collection agency has been posted through the door. B.C., Kent. Sally replies: Octopus Energy apologises and has fixed your billing, and you are now £400 in credit. You were billed using estimate readings from previous usage, which was based on when the flat was let. In March I sold a vintage synthesiser for £500 on an online marketplace and paid a postal firm £39.70 for the delivery and insurance. It was damaged beyond repair when it arrived – the online marketplace has taken back the money from me to refund the buyer – but the delivery company won't pay out as I sent it in a re-used box. B.B., Nottingham. Sally replies: The delivery company remains firm. It says as there was a lack of internal packaging and the box was old, the damaged parcel did not meet its criteria for a payout. Write to Sally Hamilton at Sally Sorts It, Money Mail, 9 Derry Street, London, W8 5HY or email sally@ — include phone number, address and a note addressed to the offending organisation giving them permission to talk to Sally Hamilton. Please do not send original documents as we cannot take responsibility for them. No legal responsibility can be accepted by the Daily Mail for answers given.
Daily Mail
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Want stylish, effortless fashion that makes you feel empowered? THIS is where you can find it (and it's celebrity stylist approved!)
JD Williams and brand ambassador Gok Wan just get it. The online retailer and superstar stylist are making a bold and powerful statement this season with the launch of the new WE SEE YOU campaign, which is all about empowering midlife women to be unapologetically themselves, shattering outdated stereotypes and celebrating their rebellious spirit, energy, and effortless style. A recent JD Williams survey revealed that 60 per cent of women feel invisible in midlife, so this stylish and size-inclusive collection aims to give you the confidence to wear what you want and look amazing, proving age is just a number. 'Midlife is a time of rediscovery, and it's about embracing who you are with confidence,' says JD Williams brand ambassador Gok Wan. 'I believe that every woman, regardless of age, deserves to feel fabulous in her own skin. 'It's not about looking younger – it's about celebrating your journey and owning your power with style and grace. JD Williams ' new collection reflects just that by showcasing midlife women in their element and enjoying moments that matter.' Prices start at just £18 for these very chic pieces, and amongst them you'll find flattering dresses, sharp tailoring and holiday-ready swimwear. Available in sizes 8 to 32, the collection is thoughtfully designed, amazing quality and made to last. We've picked out our favourite looks below, but you'll have to be quick if you want to bag one of the dresses - the vibrant red, the black and white polka dot, and the printed halterneck maxi are all in our shopping baskets! Dresses to die for Talking of dream dresses... A standout piece from the collection, Gok says 'This maxi dress is great for the summer – loads of movement and it's going to keep you nice and cool without a sleeve. 'It's got a low V on the front which is super sexy, and the bow details as well keep all our concentration around the bust area, and it is nipped in at the waist.' We couldn't agree more - this red hot maxi will become a staple of your summer wardrobe, whether you rock it with sandals, sneakers or a pair of ankle boots. Click HERE to shop this must-have maxi now! The humble polka dot is a print that keeps on coming back around, but it's a particularly big deal this year. 'If you've got a summer party coming up, going to the races or even if you're looking for a great cover-up for the beach, this polka dot dress is an absolute winner,' says Gok. 'It's got a gorgeous bow at the back and is so sexy as it creeps down the back and nips you in around the bum. The biggest seller about this dress is it moves beautifully!' It really is a wonderfully versatile dress and we've fallen head over heels for those romantic puffed sleeves too. Add wedge espadrilles and a cute raffia bag and you're good to go to any event this season. Click HERE to go dotty now! The colours of this dress are absolutely stunning and we love the combinations of contrasting prints. Just picture yourself wafting along the beach or down cobbled streets on holiday this summer, with this beautiful dress flowing behind you. The halterneck cut is flattering for everyone, as it falls from the neck downwards skimming the body as it goes. In fact, this dress looks like it should cost five times the price and we can't wait to style it with chunky gold jewellery and a pair of woven thong sandals. Click HERE to snap up this directional dress! Summer separates A fabulous summer wardrobe isn't just about dresses. Let's elevate our everyday with stylish separates we can wear in multiple ways, and which make us feel as good as we look. This waistcoat is the perfect piece to do this. The linen mix fabric is seriously impressive for the price, and what we really love is the way it's cut to accentuate the waist. Wear it with nothing underneath while it's warm and sunny, layering over a long sleeve tee when the autumn comes. And why not complete the look with the matching trousers? Breathable and comfortable enough to wear all day, you'll look cool and sophisticated from head to toe. Click HERE to buy this on-trend waistcoat and HERE for the matching trousers! This blouse is exactly the kind of pared-back piece your suitcase is crying out for. Prints and bright colours are gorgeous for holidays, but it can sometimes be tricky to put outfits together. That's where this simple white top is going to transform your vacation dressing. Wear with floaty wide leg trousers, layer over your bikini, tie at the waist and wear with a pair of denim shorts; the options are endless. And, of course, it'll look great back at home with jeans or your favourite work trousers too. Plus, the batwing sleeves are incredibly flattering, and with its easy breezy boho feel it's right on trend. Need a versatile skirt to see you through the summer months? Here it is. This classic black cotton maxi skirt is romantic and easy to wear. And look closely and you'll see it boasts lovely contrast ric rac embroidery running along each of its tiers. Not only does it look amazing but it's machine washable too making it super practical whether you're at home or away. All it needs is a white T-shirt and trainers for daytime, before you switch to a camisole and sandals for dinner. Click HERE to snap up this summery skirt. If you only buy one thing this summer, make it a linen shirt. And this one by JD Williams is just the thing. In a timeless and understated shade, it has a relaxed fit, making it ideal for every day. It'll look chic with tailored trousers or jeans while it's still a little chilly, but then team it with the matching shorts for an effortless look to beat the heat in high summer. We love a co-ord, but this one really nails a grown-up and sophisticated feel. And while we'll always love thigh-skimming shorts, 2025 is all about the Bermuda. They fall just above the knee, have a tailored waist and thanks to that neutral colour, they'll work with everything you've already got in your wardrobe. So what's not to love?
The Irish Sun
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Fashion editors share their secrets to being the best dressed guest from £23
Occasion season is well and truly on the horizon and the high street is jam packed with fresh summer arrivals. And with every wedding invite or save the date comes the inevitable dilemma, what to wear? Advertisement What's appropriate and how to navigate the dreaded dress-code. Whether you're heading to the races, attending a wedding or celebrating a special birthday, finding the perfect outfit on the high-street can seem a near-impossible task. So we've hit the shops early and picked out some of our favourite finds, from as little as £23 to give you the inspo you need to be the best-dressed guest this season. Top tip: snap up your summer gems now, because come July, the rails will be packed with knitwear! Advertisement read more in shopping Tracey Lea Sayer, Fashion Director 4 Tracey's must-have co ord from John Lewis launches on 8th May in selected stores and online Credit: A Special Birthday Abroad Top, £129, John Lewis & Partners - Trousers, £95, John Lewis & Partners - Sandals, £62, TKees - Bag, £35, JD Williams - I'm off to Mallorca with girlfriends this summer for a special birthday, and I'm after something that will look amazing but also be really comfy and keep me cool on a balmy evening. Step forward this gorgeous two-piece from John Lewis. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous I love the oversized A-symmetrical print which I think makes it look really expensive. The kimono-style sleeves and wide-leg pants feel really elegant, but they are also so comfortable because they have a drawstring waist, so are perfect for overindulging on tapas! I've added white accessories - this JD Williams bag also has an oriental vibe with the faux tortoise shell handle, and I can dance all night long at a late night bar in these TKees flats… Bring it on! Advertisement Abby McHale, 30, Deputy Fashion Editor 4 Abby's outfit for the races would work for lots of occasions this summer Credit: The Races Blazer, £69, River Island - Dress, £60, Joe Browns - Bag, £100, Mango- Shoes, £35, ASOS - Earrings, £150, Monica Vinader - I love dressing up for all kinds of occasions, but this year I'm heading to the races. I would never normally think to go to the likes of Joe Browns for dressier occasions, however the brand has a lovely selection of dresses, including this floral halterneck one. Advertisement Pink and green are great together and scream spring/summer, plus the fabric on this dress is so soft. I've popped a blazer over the top to give me an extra layer for the unpredictable British weather, and added this fun beaded bag from Mango, along with some ASOS gold heels. While I'll be sporting this outfit at the races, you could also wear the dress to any other occasions you have this summer - in fact, I've already worn it once on holiday! Emily Regan, 25, Fashion Assistant 4 The viral Primark dress is back in store in lots of different colours for the new season Credit: Advertisement A summer wedding Dress, £23, Primark - Bag, £160, Cambridge Satchel - Shoes, £38, River Island - Bracelet, £40, COS - I loved this Primark bow dress when it launched in black as part of Rita Ora's range last year. It went so viral that I was unable to get hold of one, so I was thrilled to see that they've brought it back for summer in new colourways. Plus, I think it'll be a piece that I reach for time and time again, as it's so wearable - and would be a great option for everything from the races to a wedding guest, or would look equally as lovely as an evening outfit on holiday. Advertisement If you're less keen on hot pink, then fear not as Primark has also released it in a cream and floral print. Plus, there's even a midi-length that's only £32, but be quick as I think they'll fly off the shelves. I've finished off the look with my go-to bow heels from River Island and this gorgeous rattan bag - it's a little bit more on the expensive side, but a great investment that's ideal for special occasions. Clemmie Fieldsend, Fashion Editor 4 Clemmie is a fan of butter yellow, the colour of the season Credit: Advertisement A Christening Jacket, £69, M&S Collection at Marks & Spencer - Skirt, £79.99, Zara - Bag, £49.99, Mango - Shoes, £42, River Island - Watch, £149, Abbott Lyon - I'm in my Christening era of life - I have two this year - so I want a one-and-done outfit. This season, you can't escape butter yellow on the high street - and I'm loving it. The M&S three-piece suit was a hit at the beginning of the season, and the blazer is a winner for spring. Advertisement I'll be wearing mine as a top on its own, so I don't have to worry about what's happening underneath - plus it's great for cinching me at the waist, while the exaggerated shoulders help this further by making a more defined hourglass shape. Paired with this amazing linen wrap-style skirt that looks like something from designer Thom Browne, the deconstructed, falling-apart style is what sets it apart from the rest of the high street's midi-skirts. Paired with tonal accessories, like this pearlised bag and a hint of yellow in my shoes, and I'm all set. Why Primark is great for looking expensive on a budget By Clemmie Feildsend, Fabulous Fashion Editor AS someone who's no stranger to grabbing a last-minute outfit from Primark for a night out, it's about time that celebrities started catching on too. For as long as I've been heading out, Primark has been my go-to for those 'I have nothing to wear' moments, rushing in at the last minute to find something perfect. And I'm definitely not alone - on any Friday or Saturday night, you'll find plenty of shoppers doing the same thing, right before closing time. But no matter what, Primark always delivers. Now, Rita Ora is leading the charge, showing that you can snag a designer-worthy look without spending a fortune at high-end stores. While Rita's not rushing in last minute for a red carpet outfit, she's proving you can achieve the same high-impact style for much less. Looking stunning in her tailored suit alongside her mum Vera, Rita fit right in among the other A-listers dripping in Prada, Dior, and Victoria Beckham - if anything, she looked even better than some of the guests at The Fashion Awards. With Myleene Klass and Roxy Horner already jumping on the Primark bandwagon, I'm sure more stars will be following suit soon enough.
Daily Mail
22-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
JD Williams has just dropped their SS25 collection - shop the anti-ageing dresses and summer tailoring pieces we're loving, from just £18
Stylish shoppers are going wild for one new empowering fashion collection that's designed to spark confidence in your spring and summer wardrobe. And items are already trending. Fashion brand JD Williams latest campaign, We See You is sending 'midlife' shoppers into a spin thanks to a covetable collection of flattering dresses and matching two pieces for every occasion this spring. JD Williams has you and your wallet covered for all social events this spring and summer, including fabulous pieces that will help redefine the midlife dress code. Giving your wardrobe a lift with confidence-boosting vibrant swimwear, effortlessly chic tailoring, and stylish yet comfortable dresses, the collection has you covered for the wedding season, to more relaxed summer day events and days at the pool. The new brand campaign launches alongside a nationwide survey conducted by the brand which revealed that 60 per cent of women aged 40 to 60 have felt invisible at some point since entering midlife. JD Williams is saying enough is enough. Gok Wan, JD Williams brand ambassador comments 'Midlife is a time of rediscovery, and it's about embracing who you are with confidence. I believe that every woman, regardless of age, deserves to feel fabulous in her own skin'. With sizes ranging from 8-32 and starting from £18 in price, you can add some new, stylish pieces that you can't wait to wear. JD Williams We See You highlights Border Print Halter Maxi Dress You'll be counting down until the warmer days so you can wear this stunning Border Print Halter Maxi Dress. Perfect for balmy days and warm summer nights, this halter neck volume maxi dress is relaxed in fit so effortlessly comfortable and chic. Featuring a tie halter neck and a length that falls to 54 inches. £52 Shop Stripe Linen Mix Longline Waistcoat Already selling fast, this stripe longline waistcoat is perfect for both smart and casual spring summer styling. You can pair this with the brand's matching skirt or trousers for a smarter co-ord, or with jeans and trainers for a more casual look - perfect for drinks with friends. £35 Shop Tie Front Tier Maxi Dress Red is the perfect confidence booster and you're sure to feel great in this Tie Front Tier Maxi Dress. Not only is the colour gorgeous but it has a flattering V-neckline, front ties and falls at 52 inches making it the perfect comfortable option for the Spring Summer season. £40 Shop Joanna Hope Puff Sleeve Printed Dress The Joanna Hope Lyocell Maxi Volumedress is designed to make a statement with its volumous skirt and sophisticated puff sleeves. Gok Won says it's an 'absolute winner' if you have a summer party coming up, are going to the races or even if you're looking for a great cover-up to the beach. £99 Shop Textured Batwing Top You absolutely can't go wrong with this lightweight, textured batwing top that will give a boho chic feel to any outfit this season. The perfect piece to pair with jeans or shorts this summer, it's the perfect base for layering with accessories and will go with anything. £30 Shop Black Tiered Maxi Skirt Made from 100 per cent cotton, this tiered maxi skirt is ideal for the warmer months when you want to stay cool buy stylish. Comfortable and breathable, it's a must for under £50. £42 Shop Linen Bermuda Shorts If you're looking to try some summer tailoring then these Linen Bermuda Shorts are a great option. The stone linen will pair with the linen waistcoat for a stylish look or wear separately for a completely different look. £26 Shop MAGISCULPT Lurex Maxi Beach Kaftan Look and feel amazing on the beach this summer with this style hero from JD Williams. The throw on style kaftan has a comfortable elasticated waist and floaty skirt while the maxi length means you can wear it to the pool bar and cover up when the temperature drops too. £35 Shop Joanna Hope Ruffle Pleated Dress If you summer social calendar is filling up then the Joanna Hope Ruffle Maxi Dress is a great piece to have on hand for smarter occasions. With a pretty floral print and volume pleated skirt cut to flatter the silhouette, this will take you from weddings to ladies day. £105 Shop Green Linen Mix Wide Leg Trouser Spring and summer is a great time to play around with colour and these green linen trousers are sure to get a lot of wear on warmer days. With an easy to wear elastic waistband and pockets these can be dressed up for more formal occasions too. £28 Shop
Yahoo
11-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
LIVE: Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order latest: where and how to buy the next-gen console
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Who would've thought that the Nintendo Switch 2 console launch could be so controversial? From extortionate game prices to US preorders being put on hold, it's not looking too good for Nintendo right now. We've been keeping tabs on stock levels for Nintendo Switch 2 preorders for the last few days now, and it looks like stock in the UK is fluctuating, while US retailers are yet to offer more than a "coming soon" blurb to console listings. Nintendo announced that its next-gen console would go on sale on 9 April for a 5 June release date, but then... things happened. The company isn't entirely to blame, however, since it seems that Trump's US tariffs have caused quite the headache for retailers. There could be a glimmer of hope for Nintendo fans now that Trump has announced a 90-day pause on higher tariffs for most countries, so fingers crossed that this won't have a huge impact on Nintendo Switch 2 preorders for much longer. In any case, if you're someone hoping to get your hands on a Nintendo Switch 2 console as close to launch day as possible, then stick with us as I'll be bringing you live stock updates from major retailers, as well as any deals I find on some of the best Nintendo Switch games and accessories. Nintendo Switch 2 console - £395.99 at EE Nintendo Switch 2 console - £395.99 at JD Williams Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World - £429 at EE Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World - £429.99 at JD Williams Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World + Joy-Cons + Wheels - £505.99 at EE Nintendo Switch 2 Pro controller - £74.99 at Argos Switch 2 preorders in the US are delayed due to uncertainty over import tariffs. Nintendo still hopes to make the 5 June release date. We'll keep you updated, or you can check at the retailers below. Pre-orders are available by invitation only for the time being (Nintendo's way of combating scalpers). View Deal You'll need a Best Buy account to purchase a Switch 2 Preorder from Best Buy, though its website states "pre-orders begin soon." View Deal There don't seem to be any listings for Nintendo Switch 2 preorders just yet, but we keep checking. View Deal Walmart has listings for both the Nintendo Switch 2 and the Mario Kart World console bundle, but simply says "Preorder coming soon". It might be a good idea to click the little 'Notify me' button on the listing, so that Walmart can email you directly when there's stock. View Deal There's no stock at GameStop yet either, but you can sign up with your email on the site to be notified as soon as Switch 2 stock is availableView Deal It's a little trickier to preorder a Nintendo Switch 2 directly from Nintendo in the UK as the Nintendo Store is operating on an invite-only basis for selected Nintendo Switch Online members. You need to have been a Nintendo Switch Online member for at least 2 years continuously by 31/03/2025, with an active membership on the day of preorder! Some third-party UK retailers are advertising preorders are open, but many are selling out. Try checking stock regularly at the retailers I've listed below. Nintendo's official website should be your first point of call for any news and updates on the Switch 2 console preorders. Only select Nintendo Switch Online members can preorder for Deal A fashion retailer might not seem the most obvious play to preorder a Nintendo Switch 2... but that could be the reason why JD Williams is one of only two places still showing the Switch 2 as available in the UK!View Deal EE is taking preorders on the Switch 2 and a range of Switch 2 bundles. Stock is fluctuating, but there were several options available on our last sweep. Most Switch 2 console bundles seem to be out of stock right now, aside from the more expensive bundle with the console, Mario Kart World, 2 extra Joy-Cons and a set of racing wheels all for £ Deal Argos UK is still displaying the Switch 2 in search results and even advertising it as a 'special offer' despite showing the same standard retail price as everyone else. But click on the console and you'll be disappointed to see that pre-orders are currently sold out. 'We may get more stock, so do check back at a later date', it Deal A great option for speedy delivery on launch day, but it seems that Amazon Switch 2 stock levels are also struggling. On the plus side, game and accessory preorders seem to be stable for Deal Very's another popular choice for Switch purchases in the UK, but while there are still accessories, Switch 2 consoles and bundles no longer show as available. It's worth checking back regularly though to be Deal Good morning! Preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 officially went live yesterday, but it's proving extremely difficult for gamers around the world to secure a preorder of this next-gen console. This is due to low stock from UK retailers (some still waiting for stock to officially arrive), and other factors including political import tariffs in the US causing confusion. The most recent update is that Trump has paused the Import tariffs for 90 days in most countries, which could handily take us into the US Switch 2 launch day with no issues. The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct event on April 2nd left plenty of gamers excited for what's to come, so it's frustrating for those who can't preorder the console on the day Nintendo promised. It looks like the console's release date of June 5 is still set in stone for now, but this could easily change (fingers crossed things start running smoothly). Retailers like Walmart and GameStop have Nintendo Switch 2 preorders listed as both "coming soon" while mention it being out of stock, which is a little confusing. Is there stock or isn't there? The best way to find out seems to be signing up for preorder alerts. I know everybody hates getting spam emails, but if you're serious about securing a Nintendo Switch 2 preorder, then you might have to start sharing your email with retailers to get speedy stock updates. There's still no guarantee of course that when you check the website there will be a "add to cart" button, but your chances will definitely increase if you're fast enough to beat the digital queues. While nothing is 100% guaranteed, especially when it comes to local postal services, some retailers will often aim to ship orders slightly early to ensure a speedy arrival, while others are promising that the console will arrive by 9am on launch day. I guess it depends which retailer you preorder from to determine how speedy you get your Switch 2 console, but if you're dead set on getting your hands on it for June 5th, then it might be best to shop in-store rather than online. Currys in the UK is only taking pre-orders for the system in-store, as a way to stop scalpers. Smart. One thing I know you can definitely preorder in the UK right now is the Nintendo Switch 2 Piranha Plant camera. I'm a little bit in love with this, and will definitely be getting one for my gaming room whether I use it with the Switch 2 or not (I'm more of a solo gamer). I love that there's also the option to attach it directly to the Switch 2 if you need, instead of using its plant pot as a separate base. View Deal There's no rush to get a Nintendo Switch 2, at least in my opinion, unless you're overwhelmed with the excitement to be playing it. I always try and save up for something first if I really want it, and wait until its the right time when I can best afford it. With that said, we do have some big sales events happening not long after the Switch 2 launch date, such as Amazon Prime Day (usually mid-July) and November's Black Friday too. I've been tracking Nintendo deals for almost 3 years now, and I know that Nintendo products always hold their value extremely well, so it's rare that we see any major deals or price drops outside of seasonal sales periods. That doesn't mean that there 100% won't be any Switch 2 deals come Black Friday, but I doubt they'll be very big ones if I'm honest, so there's not much point in holding out for any potential deals just yet if that's what you're thinking. Could there be a mystery character in Donkey Kong Bananza? Fans seem to think so. An alternative poster art published on the Nintendo Korea website shows a female character, who looks strikingly similar to Pauline – Mario's OG love interest in Donkey Kong 1981 (and a retro fan favourite). Watch out Peach! Nintendo Switch preorders are turning out to be a frustrating experience. We had hoped that the 90-day pause on import tariffs in the US might have allowed preorders to start on time, but not so. The measure was only announced yesterday, so not enough time for Nintendo and retailers to react, and Nintendo may not want to take any chances by confirming a retail price now only for tariffs to kick in soon after the 5 June release date. And in the UK, where preorders have started on time, they've almost all sold out already. Even retailers that are still showing the Switch 2 listed are showing an error or 'out of stock' message if you try to add it to your basket. Is there anywhere in the UK where Switch 2 preorders haven't sold out? Well, it seems the only option online right now is an unlikely one: the fashion retailer JD Williams. That might seem a strange place to preorder a Switch 2, but perhaps that's why it hasn't sold out. Like many retailers, it's limiting purchases to one per person. Other than that, Curry's says it's taking preorders in physical stores. Nintendo's own online stores are operating different Switch 2 preorder systems in different countries. While there's an automatic invitation system in the UK, Ireland and other countries in Europe, Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand have a lottery system. Entry is open now, and participants will be picked at random, but there are some conditions: you need to have notched up 50 hours of playtime on Nintendo Switch by 28 February and you need to have been a Nintendo Switch Online member for at least 1 year at the time of submission. Bad news for Switch fans in Canada. Preorders there have been delayed along with those in the US. I'm not sure why since I'm assuming US tariffs wouldn't affect the price in Canada, but there's an air of general uncertainly. Nintendo says it still aims to release the console in both the US and Canada on 5 June. If you're one of the lucky few people to have managed to preorder a Nintendo Switch 2 consoles already, Nintendo Europe says that customers in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Luxembourg, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Switzerland will receive their consoles on the release day itself (5 June) if they ordered direct from Nintendo. Customers in other European countries may have to wait a day or two longer. EE was showing an error message when adding items to basket earlier, but Switch 2 preorders are available again. Stock seems to be fluctuating, so you might have to keep checking the different bundles, but in theory, it means there are now two possible options for pre-ordering the Switch 2 online in the UK if you haven't received a personal invitation from Nintendo: EE and JD Williams of all places! Here are your options: Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World - £429.99 at EE Nintendo Switch 2 + Pro controller + Samsung microSD card - £499.99 at EE Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World + 2 pairs of Joy-Con2 controllers and Joy-Con 2 wheels - £505.99 at EE Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World + Camera - £539.99 at EE Nintendo Switch 2 console - £395.99 at EE Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World - £429.99 at JD Williams Nintendo Switch 2 console - £395.99 at JD Williams Sorry folks, but those UK Switch preorders at JD Williams and EE have gone. That means NO retailer has stock left now (at least on consoles – there are new accessories around). Based on our experience during previous console launches, the situation is likely to remain fluid, so it's still worth checking all retailers because new stock assigned could drop (and disappear) at any moment. At EE in particular stock seems to be fluctuating fast, sometimes coming back on certain options. In a similar pattern we've seen with some previous console launches, Switch 2 pre-orders are selling out in many places where they're available. In Japan, Nintendo has apologised for its website crashing under demand, and in the UK many retailers are currently showing no stock. It makes you wonder how pre-orders actually work. The Switch 2 release date isn't until 5 June. No retailer has any physical stock yet, so how can they go out of stock? Should out-of-stock pre-orders even be a thing? The concept of pre-orders for tech devices has been a huge success, allowing customers to guarantee immediate shipment on release, while also allowing manufacturers gauge demand to help determine the size of initial production runs. Although some retailers say they're out of stock, the more correct terminology would be 'out of allocation'. Retailers secure certain allocations of stock from Nintendo, and these can often be replenished periodically if they're able to put in new orders – but they don't want to take more orders from customers than they know they'll be able to deliver on the release date. There's also a certain amount of hype at work. Pre-orders generate excitement. When they sell out, the scarcity generates more hype still, which can help the next batch of allocation sell out just as fast. There's also the issue of scalpers buying up large quantities of preorders to resell at inflated prices. Nintendo and many retailers have taken measures to try to avoid that, but it could still happen. Please don't pay more than the official price no matter how desperate you get for your Switch 2! Keep calm, and you'll be able to order eventually Keep checking the retailers above, and we'll report as soon as we have more updates. It's now day 3 of tracking Nintendo Switch 2 preorders, and things are looking, er, peachy? Stock in the UK is fluctuating quite rapidly, with only the scraps of more expensive console bundles that nobody really wants remaining. In the US, all you can do right now is sit patiently and twiddle your thumbs while we wait for those "coming soon" buttons to transform to "add to cart". On the plus side, there seems to be plenty of accessory and game stock holding strong, so it might be the time to stock up (pardon the pun) on accessories and games first before securing your Switch 2 console. Only you can make that choice, but I would advise thinking about how often you play your current console, your budget for upgrading, what you like/don't like about your current Nintendo Switch console, and whether any of the new Switch 2 features are tempting enough for you to make the switch (pardon the pun). Considering that all of the old and new Nintendo Switch games will be backwards compatible, there's no real NEED to upgrade to the Switch 2 to continue playing the franchises you love, so you could look at it as more of a "treat yourself" situation on whether you can afford to reward yourself with this latest next-gen console upgrade. See our handy Nintendo Switch 2 vs Switch OLED – should you upgrade? guide for more. The last remaining Switch 2 bundle you can get over at EE right now is priced at £505.99, and includes the Switch 2 console + Mario Kart World + an extra pair of Joy-Con controllers + 2 Joy-Con Racing Wheels. It seems like most people aren't opting for this bundle, and I imagine it's because not everyone will need 4 Joy-Con controllers (including the ones you get with the console) unless you have a bigger household. Nonetheless, if you're running out of options to secure a Switch 2 console preorder then this isn't a bad option. Since it looks like the only things you can preorder right now for the Switch 2 are games and accessories, which ones are worth getting? We've put together a guide to the best Nintendo Switch 2 games, and we have the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories in the works too. On the topic of Nintendo Switch 2 games, what are your thoughts on the higher prices? Our 3D and Arts editor feels that the rise of game prices is starting to feel a little absurd, and I completely agree. But the good news is that there's a clever hack I've found to prevent gamers from paying up to $80 on new Nintendo Switch 2 titles.
