A clear response acknowledges the shortage and gives the customer a realistic next step.

The idea

Say what is unavailable, give a reason if known, and offer an alternative or an update.

Examples

  • Lo siento, ahora mismo no nos queda leche de avena.I’m sorry, we have no oat milk left right now.
  • La talla que busca está agotada en esta tienda.The size you’re looking for is sold out in this store.
  • El proveedor ha retrasado la entrega de las lámparas.The supplier has delayed the delivery of the lamps.
  • Todavía no sabemos cuándo llegará el próximo pedido.We still don’t know when the next order will arrive.
  • Si le parece bien, puedo ofrecerle un modelo parecido.If you like, I can offer you a similar model.
  • También podemos avisarle cuando vuelvan a tenerlo.We can also let you know when they have it again.

Read-aloud uses a synthetic Spanish voice available on your device. Voice quality and availability vary; it does not assess your pronunciation.

Watch out

Do not promise a delivery date that has not been confirmed; say when the date is unknown.

Try it yourself

  1. Say the batteries are sold out. No nos ___ baterías. (quedan / llegan)

    Show answer or example answer

    quedan

    quedan says none remain.

  2. Offer another color. Puedo ___ otro color. (ofrecerle / negarle)

    Show answer or example answer

    ofrecerle

    ofrecerle offers another color to the customer.

  3. Say you will notify the customer when the product arrives. Le ___ cuando llegue el producto. (avisaremos / olvidaremos)

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    avisaremos

    avisaremos promises that we will notify the customer.

Use it today

Complete three replies about stock, an alternative and notification.