AIBU to never shop at WHSmiths again?

[Rollermum]

I get they are trying to broaden their product base in the face of online competition but I feel they have gone way too far with crowding stores out to the point where getting around them is a headache, even without a pushchair or wheelchair.

I went to my local one which has narrow aisles, and for Christmas they have put little semi circle stands of gift wrap and sweets at every corner. I did have a pushchair but even without would have found trying especially I didn't happen to be the only one in there.

Their policy of a self service checkout in the ways of the normal till (seen in several branches, not just this one), piles of sugary crap teetering around the till and endless not very useful vouchers just gives me the rage.

AIBU to want to never shop there again even though I try to support the high street? And I feel sorry for their staff (peering out from piles of sweets, proffering vouchers).

I take it you are being sarcastic TiggyD

After reading this thread yesterday I needed to pop in to our local WHS to post a parcel. So I had a good snoop to see why my view was the same as others on here, that is its cramped, dark and a bit grubby.

IMHO there are a number of problems. Although it was clean, tidy and well-stocked, the aisles are cramped (you cannot really browse as people need to walk past, it's worse since the PO is at the back of shop). The shelving is bland, bit dated and way too high so it feels oppressive. So much cheap and tacky clutter, and hot spot bins at the front and this creates the impression it's a tatty shop. Their stock is good, and they have a range of choices.

They need to think about their brand and market, taking a serious look at their competitors. They merchandise like a cheap shop but have higher end prices. It all feels uncomfortable as a customer and you end up leaving quickly after you have found what you went in for. This is poor retailing, customers will pay more if they enjoy browsing; it's not about challenging them with chocolate and money off vouchers at the till. They really do need to read some basic retail layout literature to understand how customers want to shop.

It's really not rocket science.

Also, if you order online from WHSmith and arrange to collect in-store, why the Jeff does it take two weeks to arrive?

I recently needed a bottle of water (500 mls) and a small notebook (pocket size).

WHSmith - water - £1.49 and smallest notebook was £1.99.

Wilkos - water - 29p and smallest notebook - 60p.