We are constantly, through various forms, told to "shop locally" and support local or small businesses. You will often pay a bit more but this is countered with a more personalised and helpful level of service and or a higher quality of service/product.
Im all for that BUT......
If a local or small business stuffs up what makes them different to the big chain stores or online retailing, ie the customer service, then don't bleat on about how tuff it is and complain the big guys taking their business. Treat customers like dirt or supply a substandard product then why should the customer pay a premium for that. There is a reason online and big box stores have become what they have.
I'm not unreasonable with customer service expectations, misunderstandings and mistakes happen all the time, but its how these are dealt with and how the customer is treated from the moment they enter the door that is absolutely crucial for a small business to flourish.
After a frankly distasteful, disrespectful and shameful experience this week by a local company in which I have been made to feel like a criminal, my business is going elsewhere, to a multinational.
Sorry for the rant but I just needed get it out of my mind and vent. By all means support your locals and reward great service, but don't put up with rubbish just to do the "right thing"
Now, where are the keys to the XR8, that will make me feel better
