you're probably right in feeling that way...but it's not uncommon in retail. I was a sales manager for 3 years at, took an ASM position, was there for 2 years, and then left the company to work my way into a cosmetics department manager position...I desperately wanted to work with makeup and since I wasn't getting placed where I wanted, I went somewhere that could deliver..... which meant I had to work my way up all over again. I had to start as a part timer, then took a counter manager position, etc....granted the process went very quickly, I got to where I am now in about two years (where with the previous company it took me 3 years to make SM, then 3 to make ASM) when it comes down to it, no one is your friend and their job is to look out for the company....eventhough you had been in management, it wasn't THEIR management and they will always be looking for the person with the most experience with their merchandise, systems, etc, also....they are looking out for their bottom line, so if they can get the work done and not pay for it, will they do it? Absolutely. Every raise, promotion, and new salary eats out of their profit......
You've just got to decide if you will put up with it to get where you want?
I know it's hard when you feel looked over and under appreciated, but try not to go negative-nancy, try to do your best and smile, toughing it out and paying your dues will probably get you the job you want in the end.