I didn't expect to review a Red Wing shoe store. I frankly didn't expect to have a bad experience, I knew what size I was, what I wanted and basically wanted to be in an out without too much fuss. I realize the store operates 98% of it's time providing shoes for people who need specialty heavy-duty boots.
I was in the 2% of people who go in there for a pair of good boots that will last me a long time - but don't necessarily "need" them. I am still of the opinion that Red Wing makes a quality product, but unfortunately I don't foresee me setting foot in one of their stores ever again. I'll stick to the basics and if for some odd reason the gentleman working in the store reads this - to help him clarify what happened that night.
I walk in at about 7PM on October 23rd, 2012 - I don't know the name of the person working there - since I was never greeted, but it's not the end of the world. He's with two other clients and I can tell the guy is busy. I walk around trying to kill time and to give him time to get wrapped up - I'm in no hurry. I understand it's not the most ideal scenario and I don't expect them to drop everything they're doing - although, I can't think how "Hi, I'll be with you in a minute." would have cost him any time, but that's besides the point.
A bunch of unacknowledged nothing happens after that I could be going around the store setting small fires and I doubt anything would be said to me.
He completes the transaction with the first client, and I can tell he now needs to help client number two. I say nothing, I just happen to be near him towards the back of the store by the sizing machine. Suddenly, he snaps at me and says "You're GOING TO have to give me a minute DUDE - I'm the only one here." Keep in mind, I said nothing at this point. I am giving him a minute, in fact - I gave him twenty.
Great first acknowledgement. I'm not the big traditionalist when it comes to customer service, and I'm not blind - I know you're busy. But if your first words to me are in that tone, then you lost a sale. It really isn't a problem you see - you don't want my business, and I don't want to give it to you. It actually works out perfectly for the both of us.
This isn't the only source of Red Wing boots, and although I was set on the brand. Now I think I'm willing to give my other options a shot - and I mean that, I know it doesn't matter to this particular dealer, and I'm fine with that. . Of course, the boots I was looking for - Model 8146, are available at Brooks Brothers and I can tell you, the service there would be eons apart from this store. If so inclined, I may just drop by - but I really think there are too many options now that this sent me right back to the internet to look at what other alternatives there are out there.
I appreciate someone is out there making an American made product, in American small business like these franchised Red Wing stores (dealerships) - I want to support that. But unfortunately, it's not worth the hassle of being treated like a nuisance. read more