Originally Posted by
hornillas1
Full VAT on RIMOWAs are the 21% tax rate in Spain.
Global Blue is a VAT-refund service provider that takes a commission from your VAT refund. After administrative fees, you're looking at only getting back 10-12%, nowhere near the full 21%.
Participation in VAT-refund programs is completely voluntary and not obligated by business owners. It is at the discretion of the business whether or not they participate.
Most travelers are not eligible to have VAT refunds processed through alternate means. There are other means, but you would know what those options are if they were available to you.
Thanks for the breakdown! If I purchase a suitcase at a participating retailer in the VAT program, is there any issue I might come across getting the 21% tax back at the airport? Why do people go with Global Blue if its as simple as standing in line at the airport and showing the receipt and paperwork?