Disappointing change in dealing with potential customers in the last few weeks. For years, I would walk in once per quarter and use the in body machine to check my numbers. Being located right in the middle of both sides of Armbrust Pro Gym (a place I'd give 10 stars to if I could), we send a lot of business to Fit MD.
As a courtesy and in return, Fit MD allowed gym clients to check their numbers on the machine. It takes 5 minutes, there was never anyone waiting either before or after my use of said machine. In fact, that room was always empty whenever I walked in.
Such a nice gesture on their part, I always felt. While it encourages business for them (I recommended several clients go there), it also provided a quick read on how your workouts were progressing. And the reception upon entering was, for 2.5 years, always friendly and professional.
That abruptly changed now. There are some new staff members (and some who have stayed on), and when I walked in recently it was like getting an icy cold blast of water in my face. Very curt and abrasive, was the reception. Such a stark contrast from what I'm used to.
When I asked if I could use the in body (which was free and available), the woman at the front desk cooly stated that would be $20. She added that no longer would gym patrons be allowed to use the machine unless they were Fit MD patients. I didn't argue the point, but passed on it and walked out.
Hey, businesses are under no obligation to provide use of their equipment for free. I get it. But this was a prior arrangement and outstanding relationship builder with Fit MD's next door neighbors - very complimentary arrangements (fitness, health, etc.). It's a little sad to suddenly start treating those you always smiled at with curtness. Frankly, it's more odd than sad.
So I'll not set foot in there in the future, and not refer anyone else to them. This is another business that is forgetting the value of building customer loyalty in favor of...well...I was going to say saving a few bucks but that's not even applicable here. Sometimes I'm just all like SMH. read more