Customer Service ... Go For It!
We all know that shoppers love to get bargains.
Often, though, bargains aren’t what they appear to be.
Shopping usually involves decisions based upon selection of brand & model,
customer service and price, in some order of priority. A reliable independent retailer can be very helpful because the retailer
has already made those same decisions. He’s carefully selected products based upon knowledge, experience, and warranty,
the manufacturer’s reputation for quality and service, and competitive pricing. Successful independent retailers must
do that, because business viability is due to a loyal base of satisfied customers, and the only way to satisfy customers is
to sell quality goods at competitive prices and provide exemplary customer service.
We often underestimate the value of service in
customer satisfaction. Independent retailers may, for example, immediately replace defective goods that we purchase from them,
and then work with the manufacturer on our behalf to resolve the issue. For example, let’s say our favourite fly rod
breaks in mid-season. If the rod is of good quality and covered by a reputable manufacturer’s warranty, it will likely
be replaced by the manufacturer in 5 – 7 weeks. Big box stores may support goods for 30 days or so, but after that,
accept no responsibility, advising you to read the fine print. But, if we purchased it from our independent fly shop, that
shop should be the first line of defence when problems like this arise, getting us back on the river immediately, and saving
us considerable hassle. Then, when we make future purchasing decisions, we’ll remember that experience.
We all revel in the mind-boggling
big store experience, but we should try to remember these tips:
- Stop feeding the landfill or recycling depot. Be responsible
and put quality and customer service high on our priority list. Also, give purchases the care and maintenance they require.
- Never
buy anything we won’t use, regardless of price. It’s no bargain.
- Don’t assume that big stores or mail order giants sell
products cheaper. Often they use the manufacturer’s suggested list price for pricing, just like independent retailers
do.
- Big
box stores are unlikely to have knowledgeable sales reps, but your independent retailer depends upon expert, caring staff
for existence.
- The
tax man is everywhere. Even mail order giants in the US, like Cabela’s, now collect Nova Scotia HST, and also add shipping,
duty on goods of Asian origin, and currency exchange, then customs or brokerage fees.
- Some things change, but not this: We usually
get what we pay for.
This week’s fly continues to reveal the merits of coyote fur for fly tying. This Butterfly
in the photo (view from the top) was tied by trapper and angler Reid Mason of Country Harbour, using coyote fur that he harvested
earlier this winter.
Coyote Butterfly
Hook:
TDE Wet fly hook like Mustad 3399A
Butt:
Fluorescent red yarn
Rib
Extra fine oval silver tinsel
Body:
Peacock herl
Wing:
Coyote guard hair
Hackle:
Furnace (reddish-brown with black centre)
Head:
Black thread sealed with glossy clear head cement
Please stay on the line …
