By Kim/cdnchk

I should start this by stating that I imagine I’ve been so accustomed to mediocre customer service for such a long time that I’m just bowled over by the fantastic customer service I received at this small business on 2nd Avenue in Downtown Saskatoon. And for the record, I’m not shilling for them; I just had such a great experience there that I’m still smiling and can’t stop talking about how great they are!

Serenity Apparel is an independently owned yoga wear, casual fashion and athletic apparel for men and women store located in downtown Saskatoon. Their store is located in the former Hub City Collectibles building, and they are looking at opening another location in the Centre Mall sometime in mid August or so until the end of December as a trial run.

This is a slightly long-ish story, so bear with me; it totally adds to the whole experience I had with Diane (the owner of the business) and Serenity.

I had seen their advertisements in the local paper for a while, but I’ve always been a bit lazy about going downtown. The parking, the busy, the whole having to leave the safety and familiarity of my suburban bosom was just not worth the hassle. (I know, I know, it’s just Saskatoon. But add to this my not “needing” stuff and my non-shopping moods and it’s just so easy to stay at home.) Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on how you look at it), the Annual Second Avenue Sidewalk Sale allowed me the excuse/opportunity to visit the store and check out its merchandise. I was there with a friend, who was also reluctant to acquire more stuff.

It was a busy day, as it was the first of a three day sale event that stretched three city blocks and a bit more. We’ll cut through some of the non-essentials now and get to the end of that day’s events/haul. I purchased two pairs of pants of the same style pant (in two different sizes for now and post-weight loss) and a top for running, while my friend purchased one pair of the same pants I purchased. We will note that due to these items being 70% off the regular price, they were a final sale, and not eligible for exchange, refund or any of that. We decided that since the pants legs were a touch too long for both of us, I’d hem them after washing.

Washing and hemming done and pants delivered to their respective owners later, I decided to put on one of the pairs of pants (the now size) and go for a morning run. Well, suffice it to say, I couldn’t run, since the pants were too loose and kept slipping off my hips. I went home, checked the paper tag, and saw that they were the correct size. Yet when I checked the tag inside the pants, it turned out the pants were an entire size too large for me (and thus not the size stated on the paper tag). This was completely unexpected, since it is customary that the pants size should match the size on the paper price tag.

Now imagine my consternation when I thought of how I could not wear these pants, and could not yet wear the smaller size because I have not slimmed down enough yet. I thought I was stuck with a pair of pants that I could not wear, though really the fault could not be said was solely my own. I decided to give the store a call and see if there was anything that could be done, thought I did not think anything could be done, since these were final sale items.

I spoke to Diane, and she was very understanding. We concluded that the tagging was factory error. She then stated that I could come in any time and that she would replace the wrong sized pants I had with one of the correct size. This was very unexpected, but was a pleasant development.

So off I went today, since I had other errands to run in that area. I walked in, and stated that I had called the day previous. Diane recognized the situation at once, and after looking over the receipt and the offending (! haha) pants, she led me to another rack and helped me pick out some pants to try. I tried one pair in black and purple on, and it was perfect. I couldn’t decide between the black and purple and the black and green, though they were the same style. Diane then generously declared that she wanted me to have both, since she felt so bad about the sizing (though I stress that it was no fault of hers, her employees or her store) and factory error as well as the hassle that I had to go through.

I had to dash, as I had to go run some other errands and make a trip to the airport, otherwise I’d have picked up some more items. But having received such great customer service at this store, I know I’ll be back. I heartily recommend this store to everyone here, and to all of my friends and family. Diane demonstrated that her customers are important to her, and she went above and beyond to provide satisfaction. Though the fault with the sizing was not hers, she was willing to make amends and ensure that a first time customer was satisfied with her purchases and thus would become a repeat customer.

Diane and Serenity Apparel obviously know the importance of customer service and satisfaction. I encourage you to visit and check out the merchandise and see what a wonderful shopping experience can be like!

By Steven

Despite a previous bad experience at Toonie Pizza, my family wanted to give this local business another chance. However, our recent visit to Toonie Pizza was disappointing and frustrating. We had placed a pick up order of their Toonie Classic™ in addition to a large pick up special. Unfortunately, we had not checked our order when we picked it up, which in hindsight was our mistake. When we arrived home, we realized we were missing two toppings on our pizzas, as well as, a root beer. I immediately called Toonie Pizza in hopes of identifying how this mistake was made. The woman who answered my call did not attempt to resolve the issue. Through her yelling, she had the audacity to blame the mistake on me. Instead of arguing with her, I requested to speak with a manager or the owner. I was informed he would call me, but despite several days, I have not received any call. It became clear Toonie Pizza does not care for their customers.

Not only was the customer service disappointing, so was the food. The pizzas were of terrible quality; the crust was chewy and bland, while the toppings were sparse and did not taste fresh. I guess you do get what you pay for. Never again will we be visiting this establishment.

Review removed as requested by Durham Clean Air Company

By Richmond B.C.

We went to Future Shop. We paid for a computer to give as a gift. We wanted a family member in Ottawa to pick it up from the Ottawa Future Shop.

It was quite an ordeal for the Sales Rep. He phoned there several times, long distance, and had to go to the CS Desk at his store several times, and the whole thing seemed very frustrating to him.

At the other end, our family member had to go to the Ottawa store twice, because he didn’t have the number on the receipt.

I phoned Ottawa Future Shop 6 or 7 times long distance from BC and couldn’t get anyone to pick up the phone. I then called the number on their website, and they transferred me back to the same number.

Finally someone answered the phone at Ottawa Future Shop.

I’m writing this because, yes, I realize it is an unusual transaction to do, but we did it once for a TV, we paid for it in B.C. and it was picked up by family in a different Province. It was a gift. That transaction went smoothly, and easily.

By Liu

I recently attempted to do an engine oil change and oil filter changed for my 09 Corolla at Candian Tire, as was told they don’t have the tools to do the filter change so they didn’t do anything. Then I brought the car to the dealer and got the information that whoever did the oil change last time, broke the oil filter housing which cost $80 to replace. Then I called Canadian tire and they completely denied doing anything to the car because they don’t have the tools.
My advise, stay away from Canadian Tire because they are all liars and cheaters !

By Dianne

Finally the new walmart opened on June 11/10 in Bowmanville. My husband and I were extremely excited after waiting so long. We planned our evening to check out the new store and make some purchases. We checked out with $131.00 in purchases. Our check out clerk’s name was Lorraine. I presented Lorraine with a Native Status card entitling me to a PST exempt. After paying for the purchases this clerk made a very derogatory remark by advising me after July 1/10 that card would have no use to me. That card happens to be who I am. It represents my heritage and where I come from. I was so upset by the remark that I left behind a blouse I purchased. I called the store not once has the manager called back to apologize. I still do not have my blouse. I called head office 2 times and was told that I need to wait at least 48 hours for an apology. Can you image having to wait 2 days for a manager to pick up the phone to apologize. I am so disappointed with the way Walmart has ignored my complaint and that a company discriminates against other cultures and heritages in such a multicultural province. I work hard for my money and I’m a tax payer.

By Catherine

I purchased a package of 2 services for Med-Spa through TeamBuy, I was very excited to have a professional skincare place treat my skin. This was also the first time I had got 3 other friends to buy in too- and now I’m humiliated at the poor service the med-spa provided. The woman who saw me there was rushed, and rude. She did the micro dermabrasion (counted as 1 treatment) then slapped an enzyme mask on my face (counted as second treatment) left the room for 5 minutes, came back washed it off and ushered me out the door. That was by far the worst facial I have ever experienced. There is no relaxstion involved, it was very literally like 15 minutes of her time maximum. I would have been insanely irate if I had received that kind of service and had paid full price for these treatments. I can’t help but wonder if she treated me so rushed and hurried because I had already paid through TeamBuy. What a sad operation.

By Setrak

Well this is my first review here.  It’s simply to let people know to be aware of their transactions on credit cards when they go to Nickel’s restaurant on 1384 Rue Sainte Catherine Ouest, Montréal.
I went there on April 10th with a friend.  I received my Visa statement which showed 2 transactions, one on April 10th for the correct amount, and another transaction a few days later for almost 100$.  I have opened a dispute.
So just be careful, they mnight be using credit cards for unauthorized payments.

By JSAM’s Mom

I went to a Zellers store in Hamilton tonight to pick up two Arrow golf shirts for my husband. They were advertised in their flyer at 25% off. When I went to the cash, one rang up at $19.00, and the other at 24.97. (The original price was $24.97 each.) I explained to the cashier that they should have both been on sale, and so she did a price over-ride for the one that had rung up full price. When she did that, the discounted price was now $18.73. So I asked her why the prices were now different, if the original prices were the same. She said she didn’t know. I asked her if she could price adjust the one that rang in at $19.00 so that it was $18.73 as well, and she said no! (Now I realize that the difference is a measly $0.27, but it’s the principle of the thing - and the fact that HBC makes way more money each year than I do.) She told me there was nothing she could do; they can’t over-ride a price that’s on sale. When I told her I didn’t want the shirt then, she s
norted and rolled her eyes. I’m sorely temped to just return the shirt I did take and get my husband a couple of shirts elsewhere. I didn’t think of it until afterward - I should have asked what would have happened if I had come in and asked her to price match. Would she have told me the same lame story that they can’t price over-ride to do a price match if they already have it on sale?

By Michael S.

One of the worst customer service experiences I’ve ever had. I purchased a $450 Treasure Garden market umbrella From Fresh Home & Garden which snapped in half 8 days after I brought it home. When I went back to return it, I was told by the store’s co-owner that they don’t warrantee the product and that I was basically out of luck. This was not mentioned at the time of purchase, nor is it indicated anywhere on the receipt. I had to ask for the manufacturer’s contact info to see if I could submit a claim directly. Instead, my claim was forwarded to the local Treasure Garden dealer who informed me that “Treasure Gardens warranty specifically states that acts of nature …are not covered by their manufacturer’s warranty.” As of April 23, 2010 I still have not received a copy of this warranty, nor have I received any satisfactory resolution to my claim. Upon further investigation, I was able to find the same umbrella through Amazon.com for $149. Obviously I was duped by a unscrupu
 lous retailer whose outrageous markup practices lulled me into believing I was buying a higher quality product than I actually received, as well as a manufacturer whose warranty protects no one but themselves.

Damage Resulting = I’m out $450. The retailer has since offered to sell me a replacement for $225 which would put me out $675 for an umbrella which is obviously not worth a cent.

By tigerdirect.ca

I recently ordered from tigerdirect.ca . I bought two items and received the first very quickly and was satisfied with the price/product.  The second item arrived two weeks after the first and is listed as

“Uniden DECT1560-3 Digital Cordless Answering System - 2 Extra Handsets and Cradles, DECT 6.0, Caller ID, Speakerphone, Store up to 70 Names, Silver/Black”

I purchased it believing it was an answering machine.  So when I got the phone two weeks later and saw that it wasn’t a answering machine just a cordless phone I called them.  I said that I had not opened the box but the box doesn’t mention anywhere that it was an answering machine and since that was in title…..perhaps they sent the wrong box.

He said that answering machines are just included now in cordless phones….which i know isn’t the case, as I did comparison shopping.  He told me to open it up and plug it in and I’ll find that the phones just have an answering machine.  Weird I know but I did not want to send it back at my cost in correctly.   I did open it and looked around for the missing answering machine, and it was not there.  I found the manual….and the manual mentions nothing about the answering machine. So I called up Uniden and asked if they may have sent me the wrong item.  They said that 1560 never has an answering machine.  So it wasn’t the wrong box.  It was listed wrong.  Not a huge mistake but it needed to be corrected.

I called back Tiger Direct asked them to remove the posting because it is false advertising…and let them know i would send it back

After hours on hold they want me to ship it back to them at my cost…give them a month or maybe more since I’m from Canada, to verify I returned it properly and then they’ll refund my money if everything is packaged correctly.  I needed a new phone system now.  I have to go pay out of pocket the shipping and for a new phone.  The savings wasn’t worth the trouble in this instance.  Its unlikely I will use them again.

By Eternally hopefull one

I have tried several times to use the PINs printed on Tostito Chips to enter points for Aeroplan credit.  Repeatedly the PINs have been rejected.
The problem is that neither I nor my friends can decipher the PINs as printed on the packages.
I suggest the PINs be printed so that they can be read, or the whole silly contest be abandoned.

By Galaftion

Yeah, WeedMan applied saritor on my beautiful freshly sodded lawn and promised that will protect it from weeds. BIG MISTAKE ! two days after, the lawn was dead despite watering it and following religiously their indications on how to maintain it !. I called their office in Ottawa and asked for immediate assistance, 2000$ and lots of work was wasted by their chemicals .. what I got was a promise that “maybe” I will get someone to come and have a look in a couple of days. I am very very upset and looking after a lawyer already … the more I read the reviews the more people I see in my situation., anyone out there that knows how these folks can be determined to pay for the damage or at least take them out of the market ?

By Nita2603

Hi guys,

So I just wanted to add a positive review to the mix….
So my husband and I recently went do DQ in Ottawa - on Hazeldean Rd, for those who live in the capital as well. I, having a severe nut allergy, usually dread those thing, since people tend to be rude, don’t care or plainly are not informed.
So anyways, I was wondering if one of the Blizzards had nuts in it, and the young man went and checked for me, said no and then dissapeared. After 6 minutes of waiting, he came back with our ice creams, apologizing for the wait and explained, that he wanted to be careful and clean the machine out for me, in order to be sure. WOW. That had never ever happened before. They still told me they couldn’t garantee anything (that’s a given), but I actually felt confident, and since I am typing this right now, you guys know it went well.

So needless to say, I wrote DG HQ, telling them about the fantastic care I had received and they wrote back and told me that the young man has been recognized for his efforts. Awesome, he should be. Believe me, I know where I am getting my next ice cream from.

By GAA

We recently purchased a retractable awning from this business.  While the product is good, the service is definitely not.  The owner of the business came and did a consultation for us where we described what we wanted from the awning and what it was supposed to do.  That included where it was to be mounted in order to accomplish the result we were after.  That would be above the patio light so as not to block it off.  The awning was ordered based on the consultation but when it was installed, it was painfully obvious that it was too small to do what we wanted it to do.  Granted, the measurements on the order were exactly what we got but the consultation we received grossly missed the mark.
When we determined that the only way to get this $1,700.00 mess close to fixed was to move the awning below the patio light which would require me to purchase and install a new light, we were told by the owner that he wasn’t running a charity and it would cost $150.00 or it wasn’t getting moved.
So remember, when John says “Excellence in service is my business – you have my word on it”…..don’t believe him!!  There are other businesses out there that I’m sure will live up to that statement.