Want the real deal at FS?

[nighthawk26]

I work at Future Shop, and I have for 8 years. As with any business there is good and bad, lets not kill ourselves.

I will offer you people this. Want to know what it's like on the other side of the fence? Want to know what might get you that deal you're looking for and what wilL CERAINLY get you nothing?

And to know the best "tricks" while working within ethical lines, I have no problem telling any of it. I'm about as straight as they come. I treat every customer the way I would want my mother to be treated if she went to a store on her own. YEs there are things you should buy "warranty" on. And various reasons why you should. And yeah there are things personally I wouldn't buy warranty on. I have no peoblem sharing anything I can.

Just do yourselves a favour and get in the minds of the people you are working WITH to get you that deal, and avoid working AGAINST them. Cause in the end of the day as people will say, we are on comission and sure we want your business and the comission that goes with it, but it's often harder to sell our managers on things than it is you. So with that....

ASK AWAY!

[kjs]

Oh, I was hoping for an actual deal... Wrong forum

[coeternity]

i think u shld post at least one good deal so the thread wont be moved to off topic :cheesygri

and oh ya my question is can you tell me when the next shipment of wii and ps3 is on fs? :razz:

[belfour]

How come staff at FS don't know how to post in the correct forum? :cheesygri

One of those "Ask me anything about .... " threads...hehe

[mannyb]

Do you price match against 2001 Audio Video? I've seen some threads that imply that FS does not because of 2001's 15% restocking charge? And why is the price match policy not always the same in all the stores? Shouldn't it be the same for all FS stores? Is it lack of training or is it subjective on the salesperson's part?

[nighthawk26]

i think u shld post at least one good deal so the thread wont be moved to off topic :cheesygri

and oh ya my question is can you tell me when the next shipment of wii and ps3 is on fs? :razz:

I wish I knew. They are drop shipped. But FS policy is to not put them on the floor the day they come in, but to post a note in the window for the following day at open. Then first come first served. NO staff can buy either system!

[twinstar]

Do you price match against 2001 Audio Video? I've seen some threads that imply that FS does not because of 2001's 15% restocking charge? And why is the price match policy not always the same in all the stores? Shouldn't it be the same for all FS stores? Is it lack of training or is it subjective on the salesperson's part?

seriously, the price matching thing is a HUGE pain. I've heard every excuse under the sun why they don't wanna pricematch:

"bestbuy is the same company"
"online sites need to have a physical retail location"
etc...

I leave FS frustrated, but with them eventually matching the price, EVERY TIME :S

[nighthawk26]

Do you price match against 2001 Audio Video? I've seen some threads that imply that FS does not because of 2001's 15% restocking charge? And why is the price match policy not always the same in all the stores? Shouldn't it be the same for all FS stores? Is it lack of training or is it subjective on the salesperson's part?

There are a few answers to your question.

First. All futureshops should work the same. The breakdown happens with the size of the company which isn't an excuse, just an explanation. Training is an issue ESPECIALLY this time of year as more than half the store are seasonal, and don't know much which is unfortunate!

As for 2001, this 15% restocking fee must be in the GTA which I am not. They don't do returns at all from all my experience (8 years). We will always price match as long as it's in stock and it's on the same model of course. My advice to you is be courtious, ask nicely to speak to a manager and have them explain why they won't do something. More often then not you will get what is rightfully fair. Worst case, you ask for the head office number or email, and direct your concerns there. It will always come back to the same person who likely said no in the first place saying take care of this customer. This is why almost always it's done in the store casue managers know it will happen in the long run so why make you angry and instead make it a pleasant experience for you. Does that answer your question?

[bubble.tea]

How come staff at FS don't know how to post in the correct forum? :cheesygri

One of those "Ask me anything about .... " threads...hehe

OUCH....well to OPs defence their reg date is like...NOw...so regardless of profession., being a forum n00b tends to result in posting things in the wrong place.

I saw welcome to RFD., and prepare to be inundated with questions.

[nighthawk26]

Was just about to say my appologies for postin gin the wrong forum. If there are mods here please feel free to move it where it be more useful. And thanks for the welcome.

I also have no problem answering questions. Anything I can do to help people make better and smarter decisions while feeling good about their purchases and perhaps enlightening them as to how we see thigns on the other side of the fence is a great benefit to all parties involved!

[someguy91]

Why is it that FS always has somebody give you a hard time when you try to PM something? Is it in your training in order to deter further price matching?

[nighthawk26]

seriously, the price matching thing is a HUGE pain. I've heard every excuse under the sun why they don't wanna pricematch:

"bestbuy is the same company"
"online sites need to have a physical retail location"
etc...

I leave FS frustrated, but with them eventually matching the price, EVERY TIME :S

You're right, and it can and does happen. It is a shame, and understand frustrating to people like myself who frankly sometimes even call customers to come for the price match. Best thing I can suggest is if you buy a lot of electronics, establish a relationship with one salesperson. They will apprecaite you and your business and will want to do what they can for you. I have had repeat customers for YEARS, and they all refer people. It's how I make my living. Not by pissing people off by saying no all the time.

As for your above objections for a brice beat. Kindly ask for a manager as soon as you hear the bestbuy thing. Thats a load of crap. The two companies are marketed, and advertised by different companies. One hand NEVER knows what the other is doing. Although we are the same, we are run as completely seperate businesses.

As for the online thing. It's a fine line. The real only objection there is we take into account if there is shipping charges. Has to be a canadian store, and MUST be an authorized dealer of the product you are buying. I think those are all reasonable. Do you object to that?

[nighthawk26]

Why is it that FS always has somebody give you a hard time when you try to PM something? Is it in your training in order to deter further price matching?

There is nothing in training with regards to saying no to a price match. As long as it's legit there should be no problems. If you have a specific example I'd be happy to go over it with you and give any advice that may help.

[someguy91]

There is nothing in training with regards to saying no to a price match. As long as it's legit there should be no problems. If you have a specific example I'd be happy to go over it with you and give any advice that may help.

It was just that day that Dell had the G7 mouse for 59.99 and FS had it for 149.99 I think. That was one of the times. Got a lot of resistance for that. So I'm just curious if there's nothing in training, why are some employees so hesitant to give out legitimate price matches?

[nighthawk26]

It was just that day that Dell had the G7 mouse for 59.99 and FS had it for 149.99 I think. That was one of the times. Got a lot of resistance for that. So I'm just curious if there's nothing in training, why are some employees so hesitant to give out legitimate price matches?

Honestly, a variety of reasons most likely. Bad day? Power trip? another customer was an ass to them, and you're the poor buggar who is next in line. Who knows. I assure you thought there is nothing in training other than the policies that are covered for a PP in the first place. Legitimate store, they have it in stock, and it's the same model. Also CAN NOT be limited to 5 per store sort of thing, and they have to be an authorized dealer of that product.

[bendez]

hello first time posting ^_^
should i buy warrenty for xbox 360?

[nighthawk26]

i have a 2 part Q, 1st fs always fight so hard not to honour lower sale prices, but after arguing for 30mins they finally start caving in, i bought a samsung 4041 lcd month back for $1999, saw that they had f&f sale, next day went to pm, but they would only budge for $100 off. told them that i would like to return it then, finally agreed on $1799. 2 weeks later bb has their f&f sale, same tv with htib for $1799, i pm it agian at fs, this time no big problems, but still took almost 45min to convince bb had it in sale. now, why do they fight so much when they are still making money off the tv, even with the package. i had asked a employee to just let me know the actual cost of the tv, they said it was $1440 plus 10%. is that really true or was he just lieing, because now fs has the same package deal as bb at $1999 with better htib. this is a Q for someone that would treat a customer like their own mother. right?your words.


Absolutly. Well I'm at home so I can't comment on cost as it's not in front of me and I certianly don't know cost on every sku. However it does sound about right. Certainly in the ballpart anyways. When deals get that "dirty" and they are packaged with a same manufacturer surround or DVD or whatever, you can rest assured that there is back end funding going on. Staff is not prevy to those numbers. NOt even store managers. They will see total funding for the store from vendors, but not where it's allocated. Does that make sense? Bottom line is keep your cool. Remember you haev a 30 day return policy. Any staff who gives a hard time with a PP, then aclmly say ok thats fine, I would just like to return it then. Common sense says that should trigger something in their minds casue you are clearly entitled to a refund and at that point you would clearly rebuy it. Why put you through that process.

What seems to be the common theme I am getting ehre is you're finding trouble PP things and wondering why that is. Bottom line you are talking with someone who is either in a ***** of a mood, or doesn't know what they are talking about. MOST customers at this point get rude as hell and put yourself in their shoes. How would you react? I will tell you this. When someone gets like that with me I am certainly not trying to work with them. Make sense? DId I answer your question?

BTW, that package is $1999 with the lower end samsung surrond (small rears) AND the upconverting DVD.

[nighthawk26]

hello first time posting ^_^
should i buy warrenty for xbox 360?

Your call. Comes with a 90 day warranty. You tell me! Persoanlly I would. I dont' work in that department, but from what the reps in there tell me about 70% of people do. I can also tell you more often than not they are replaced not fixed. Best I can answer, sorry for nothing definitive.

[Cacti]

Which FS do you work at and do you know when the next shipment for wii is?

[nighthawk26]

Which FS do you work at and do you know when the next shipment for wii is?

Now that I can't tell you! :) However, Wii's and PS3s are drop shipped. Meaning they dont' come through our warehouse, they ship direct from Nintendo and Sony. That being said we dont' know!

I can tell you the policy. No staff can buy them.

If they arrive randomly on a Thursday, they are put in the managers office. if 10 come in a sign is put up in the window saying 10 units avail. Friday morning. Then when we come in in the morning there are like 30 people waiting. They don't seem to wanna to the math! :) Honestly I have heard people having better luck with EB games, but to try FS your best bet is to call late afternoon, as if any came in and they SHOULD tell you if they came in and you'll be able to try the following morning like everyone else.

[jande9]

1- They used to advertise that their sales people did not work on commission? Is that not true any more?

2- Is the training as good as they say it is?

3- What kind of money can you earn there?

4- How has the company changed since it went from being owned by a Vancouver company to becoming part of an American chain?

[nighthawk26]

1- They used to advertise that their sales people did not work on commission? Is that not true any more?

2- Is the training as good as they say it is?

3- What kind of money can you earn there?

4- How has the company changed since it went from being owned by a Vancouver company to becoming part of an American chain?

1.) They have NEVER advertised they are not on commission. Not in the 8 years I have been there. Perhaps you are thinking of Best Buy. THey are not, and seem to be proud of it. I have my issues with non commission salespeople, and I'm willing to share, should someone want to know.

2.) The training made avail. is great. However this time of year is touch and go becasue they hire seasonal staff who a.) are hired and thrown to the wolves so to speak, and b.) if they are part time they might not care. The trainign I received YEARS ago was unmatched. It cost the company something like 10 grand back then to take a new hire to 3 months. Back then I was sent to Vancouver for LCD and plasma training, and there was ALWAYS constant training going on. Today things have changed a little as margins shrink costs have to be cut so a lot of training is done online and staff are left to their own devices. If they choose to learn, the tools are there and are fantastic, but it's not always the case. Don't label FS with good or bad service. Lable the associate you are dealing with. Which is why I always recommend to people they find someone they like, trust and are comfortable with and always go back to them for future purchases. This is how I've made my living, and if I don't know something (ie. computers) I take them to the person I trust most in the store as I want to make sure they are treated well.

3.) There are commission and non commission people there. Music, and gaming are non, as well as a few people dealing with printers, faxes, and DVD playes, as well as MP3's. They would make about $8.00 to start but can go as high as $12 or so. Same with CSR's and merch people. Commission people varies greatly. Range is likely about 36k as average to over $100k. Personally, being an open sales guy, $75k is a rather easy goal to attain. But not everyone is cut out for this job I can tell you that so I don't wanna create any false expectations. I'd say MOST could do $45k if they have the necessary skills, and they can build from there.

4.) It was owned by one person before. "Mr. K". As the company grew there was not alot of standardization in place. Store to store was run quite different. Best Buy has standardized a lot of things. Created standard operating procedures to create better uniformity. Hard core sales training has become more "lifestyle training". Focussing greatly on providing the best product for the customer based soley on needs. Basically things got a LOT more customer focussed. Reporting became much more advanced (although not our terminals as some of you may see). Overall it has become much better, and you will all likely be happy to know they cut our comissions quite a bit. Even managers are paid partially with a customer service bonus. Really a TON has changed. IF you were wondering something more specific you'd have to ask casue I could go on forever!

[smokeylovelove]

What is the markup on TV's, ex LCD, Plasma, and DLP?

[nighthawk26]

What is the markup on TV's, ex LCD, Plasma, and DLP?

FAR too broad a question. AVERAGE is 18%. If that category runs 18% the product managers a head office are pleased. Some are as high as 32% (very few) and thats when they are at full MSRP. That drops quick which is why the average is as I mentioned. Between technologies there is no major difference. The cheaper TV you buy (generic brands etc) the less margin. Expect 8-12% margin in these products. This time of year with some of the deals on, without the back end funding things run as low of an average of 12%.

As an FYI, as an employee there, we pay cost PLUS 10%. Which means these TV's that average 18%, as an employee there we save 8% on average more than the customer. The markup, is frankly in accessories. 35-60% which is why you may notice a good "bargaining tool" is when you are buying cables, stands, wall mounts, PSP, etc casue we can play with the numbers a little more. It's all about maintaing the bottom line. Expect the guy buying the TV alone to not get as good of a break as the guy buying the $300 worth of cables and warranty to go with it. Also expect him to complain about the picture when it looks like crap.! ;)

I should note here... we are in NO WAY paid more or less based on margin at all!! This keeps everyone honest and promotes the theme of "lifestyle selling" as I mentioned in an above post.

[Steeve Urkel]

How come if some of the salespeople want to make sales so badly, when you visit a store they make you wait over 30 minutes and don't ask if you need assistance...?

This has happened to me dozens of times.

Also can any of the sales people guess who the mystery shoppers are?
I'm curious to know what you think about them?

[smokeylovelove]

FAR too broad a question. AVERAGE is 18%. If that category runs 18% the product managers a head office are pleased. Some are as high as 32% (very few) and thats when they are at full MSRP. That drops quick which is why the average is as I mentioned. Between technologies there is no major difference. The cheaper TV you buy (generic brands etc) the less margin. Expect 8-12% margin in these products. This time of year with some of the deals on, without the back end funding things run as low of an average of 12%.

As an FYI, as an employee there, we pay cost PLUS 10%. Which means these TV's that average 18%, as an employee there we save 8% on average more than the customer. The markup, is frankly in accessories. 35-60% which is why you may notice a good "bargaining tool" is when you are buying cables, stands, wall mounts, PSP, etc casue we can play with the numbers a little more. It's all about maintaing the bottom line. Expect the guy buying the TV alone to not get as good of a break as the guy buying the $300 worth of cables and warranty to go with it. Also expect him to complain about the picture when it looks like crap.! ;)

I should note here... we are in NO WAY paid more or less based on margin at all!! This keeps everyone honest and promotes the theme of "lifestyle selling" as I mentioned in an above post.

Lol, drunk night, I realized how broad the question was after you responded to it

[nighthawk26]

How come if some of the salespeople want to make sales so badly, when you visit a store they make you wait over 30 minutes and don't ask if you need assistance...?

This has happened to me dozens of times.

Also can any of the sales people guess who the mystery shoppers are?
I'm curious to know what you think about them?

Well here is the ugly truth. Not that it's good but reality. If you are looking at something small it might be harder to get help as it pays less commission. This is another reason they are slowy changing some positions to non commission. for products that are small, while they leave large more complex thigns to "product experts" who have a great deal mroe training. If you're not getting help on bigger things, it's news to me. We fight over you guys! ;)

Other possible answers are if people are having a bad day you can only ask so many times "how are you today sir" only to hear "just looking". Honestly I have been doing this for so long I will flat out say "thats great, but I asked you how you were doing". Some salespeople think they are bothering you. Frankly these are the people that should work for bestbuy. Honestly, not everyone is cut out for a commission job, but sadly some have one with us.

As for the mystery shoppers. 8 Years there and I've never had one. Never had one that I've known of and never had one I've heard anyone to have. And I have been in management there in the past too, and still no discussions. Nothing at the store level anyways. What happens at Head office is news to me though.

[AnnaBanana]

Thanks so far OP!!!

1. Is it worth it to buy the warranty on video cameras? I just bought a video camera (Canon Elura 100) and feel that i was 'suckered' into the three year warranty. What's your opinion??

2. Do staff get comission on the warranties as well?

3. When can you bargain?

Thanks!
A.B.

[tjuzer]

Good post

[gill2k]

Your call. Comes with a 90 day warranty. You tell me! Persoanlly I would. I dont' work in that department, but from what the reps in there tell me about 70% of people do. I can also tell you more often than not they are replaced not fixed. Best I can answer, sorry for nothing definitive.

Are they replaced right on the spot? I bought an extended warranty with my Xbox 360 today (3 years cuz I heard the console can break easily). The guy that sold it to me says if I bring it in, they'll have to keep it for repairs.

[kocoman]

Has anyone take a picture of the staff who was unreasonable with PMs or take notes of managers name etc and sent letter to head office? sometimes they won't bother the manager there about the issue and instead send you a gift card or something. there may me templates of how to write compliant letter.

[GLALNP]

I bought the HP Pavilion desktop computer
bundle and they told me that I could come
back and buy an extended warranty.

Is it worthwhile for the desktop and if so
what's the best deal I can get for an
extended warranty?

Thanks for your help!!

[gforce0124]

I would like to know, how come you guys do not Price match with Canada computers when they get all there stock from canadian retailers. Also even though FS and BB are both the same companies, why don't you guys? cause I tried to price match Logitech Z5500 speakers but BB gave me an answer that Canada computers is not a Candian computer store and all of there stock is from the US.

[bruceferns]

I went to the Futureshop at Kennedy 5 years ago, I was looking to purchase a 27" television and home theatre surround sound system.... for my new condo (limited budget as I was moving out on my own)...

I was doing a lot of shopping around, as I wanted the best deal (I did not know of RFD then).

I overheard a Futureshop employee discussing the price of a television with another customer. The customer refused to buy it and left. Since I knew what the salesperson had quoted was a better deal than anything I had heard. I approached him and said I would like the TV for the price he quoted. He said fine. While we were walking towards the television he suddenly said he would not sell it at that price. I reminded him that he had said it is ok. He said and I quote "Oh I changed my mind, I do not want to sell it at that price." I was shocked. I should have sued the F@#$$r and Futureshop. The only thing working in their favour was that I was younger and much more naive.

Anyways.... to make a long story short, ever since I only go to Futureshop when I have to PM them..... all my other purchases are made at Bestbuy. Even when my family members and friends want to go to Futureshop... I convince them to go to Bestbuy. I have convinced at least 60+ people to buy at Bestbuy in the past 3-4 years.

Bruce

No hard feelings to OP..... this just how I feel.

[second2none]

Has anyone take a picture of the staff who was unreasonable with PMs or take notes of managers name etc and sent letter to head office? sometimes they won't bother the manager there about the issue and instead send you a gift card or something. there may me templates of how to write compliant letter.

I'm not certain which boat you just came off.

If you tried to take a picture of me because you were "not satisfied" I would punch you in the face.

[nopn]

what makes you start this thread ?

[nighthawk26]

Thanks so far OP!!!

1. Is it worth it to buy the warranty on video cameras? I just bought a video camera (Canon Elura 100) and feel that i was 'suckered' into the three year warranty. What's your opinion??

2. Do staff get comission on the warranties as well?

3. When can you bargain?

Thanks!
A.B.


I am not a pushy guy when it comes to warranties. I present the facts and the benefits as it may pertain to the product and what how the customer will be using the product. As for video cameras the HUGE benefit is you get free cleanings. This is worth $90 bucks or so. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF IT. It's no different than getting your oil changed. Prolongs the lif. You haev no idea how many people haev a 6 year old camera and can't understand why it's died especially since it's used what, 5-8 times a year. Does't sem like a lot of usage. Anytime a warranty comes with a service seems like an ok deal to me. Get it cleaned the 3 times and it's paid for.


Yes, we get paid commission on warranties.

And you should always try to bargain. can't hurt to ask, just dont be an ass about it. Our stores do shops of all our competitors every single week and we put them in a "shop book". What other store does that for you. And the kiosk terminals are in the store for you to look up competitors, and for the staff to do the same. We give the tools, feel free to use them.

[nighthawk26]

Are they replaced right on the spot? I bought an extended warranty with my Xbox 360 today (3 years cuz I heard the console can break easily). The guy that sold it to me says if I bring it in, they'll have to keep it for repairs.


That is correct. Only a few products are OCE (over the counter exchange). This is not one of them. It's replaced if it's deemed to expensive to repair, which is often the case is all I was getting at. Sorry for the confusion.

[nighthawk26]

I bought the HP Pavilion desktop computer
bundle and they told me that I could come
back and buy an extended warranty.

Is it worthwhile for the desktop and if so
what's the best deal I can get for an
extended warranty?

Thanks for your help!!


Computers unlike TV's run with VERY VERY low margins. 10% and people are EXTATIC. If it was a great deal odds are it's below cost. This is why there are so many services in the computer department. Set up, virus, spyware, etc. The moneys gotta be made back somwhere. People look at this as buying unnecessary stuff and we wanna just make money. Of course, it is a retailer lets not kid ourselves, but not everyone is computer savy. People online always say, dont' do this or that, it's so easy. Sure said the guy in the forum.

Yes on a computer you would have 14 days to go back and buy it. Make sure yuo take the serial number with you and be sure they add that to the warranty sheet as well to ensure no future problems casue without it there most ertainly would be shuold you need to use it. As for a deal on it. There isn't any. The warranties are set up in price bands. Whatever you paid for the computer has a predetermined price for the PSP.

[nighthawk26]

I would like to know, how come you guys do not Price match with Canada computers when they get all there stock from canadian retailers. Also even though FS and BB are both the same companies, why don't you guys? cause I tried to price match Logitech Z5500 speakers but BB gave me an answer that Canada computers is not a Candian computer store and all of there stock is from the US.


Good question. canada computers is not an authorized canadian retailer. Which means they do not offer a warranty. The warranty they offer is through them and not the manufacturer. We are pretty clear on that in paperwork. It's not a legitimate store set up in canada. Does that make sense? I can elaborate if need be.

[nighthawk26]

I went to the Futureshop at Kennedy 5 years ago, I was looking to purchase a 27" television and home theatre surround sound system.... for my new condo (limited budget as I was moving out on my own)...

I was doing a lot of shopping around, as I wanted the best deal (I did not know of RFD then).

I overheard a Futureshop employee discussing the price of a television with another customer. The customer refused to buy it and left. Since I knew what the salesperson had quoted was a better deal than anything I had heard. I approached him and said I would like the TV for the price he quoted. He said fine. While we were walking towards the television he suddenly said he would not sell it at that price. I reminded him that he had said it is ok. He said and I quote "Oh I changed my mind, I do not want to sell it at that price." I was shocked. I should have sued the F@#$$r and Futureshop. The only thing working in their favour was that I was younger and much more naive.

Anyways.... to make a long story short, ever since I only go to Futureshop when I have to PM them..... all my other purchases are made at Bestbuy. Even when my family members and friends want to go to Futureshop... I convince them to go to Bestbuy. I have convinced at least 60+ people to buy at Bestbuy in the past 3-4 years.

Bruce

No hard feelings to OP..... this just how I feel.

No problem Bruce, yuo are entitled to your position. Sorry to hear though.

I'm sure you can see there that it's not FS, it's the idiot employee. Every company has their fair share of bad seeds you certainly must agree!? I hate people like that casue customers label us all with the same brush which is unfortunate. I can tell you with bestbuy buying FS, stuff like that is not tolerated at all. Perhaps he was a hot shot top guy and got away with that stuff in the past. Managers don't tolerate that crap anymore and if they KNOW about it, they deal with it, I can assure you of that! You shuold have talked to a manager about that at the time. If you've ben soured that bad I suppose I don't blame you. remember I am a customer in every other industry so I likely would be the same. Difference is I know sometims my job can get frustrating for a variety of reasons so if someone is like that with me, I look at it with a little more perspective. Did they just have a bad day? Was that customer before a complete ass. Who knows. Doesn't make it right, but I appraoch thigns with a little more understanding. But in the end you see the business strategy right? FS pissed you off so you went to BB. In the end, both companies win casue your money still ended up in the same place in the end!

[nighthawk26]

I'm not certain which boat you just came off.

If you tried to take a picture of me because you were "not satisfied" I would punch you in the face.

Hahaha.. That was kinda an insane suggestion. And completely unnecessary. Honestly I could only imagine how big an ass that person would be making of themselves. Just ask for a name and head office number. You do realize when people are that foolish at the customer service desk that even the other customers in line make fun of you when you leave right?

[nighthawk26]

what makes you start this thread ?

Good Question!

Several reasons. Long story short, I get frustrated sometiems with customers. Demands, attitudes, the I am the customer I am always right I can talk to you how I like. WRONG. I will not deal with that, so this allows me to kinda deal with peoples problems on the other side of the fence without feeling personally attacked.

Another reason is so I can see peoples honest to god concerns without the factor of being in the store. No oens heated and fired up, just talking rationally. Also though so maybe yuo guys can have a little better perspective of what goes on there. That way perhaps you can get that better deal you were looking for, and you are aware of whatever rights yuo have to whatever policy weather it be return or price protection. Which seem to be the most sensitive topics.

[nabby]

...You do realize when people are that foolish at the customer service desk that even the other customers in line make fun of you when you leave right?

Of course, by that time, you've already left and wouldn't care anyway! :)

By the way, thanks for the information!

[BaboSo]

This is a good thread.

One question, why can't FS price match on 'Instant Rebates"? Isn't instant rebates are like the product is on sale?

Thanks

[Tijuana]

Can you bargain the price of a TV on Boxing Day? How would you go about that, would you ask them to throw in like a dvd player, say ill pay 2100 instead of 2200? Thanks

[AnnaBanana]

Thank you sooooooo much so far - so helpful!!!

One more question. The camera that i bought (Canon Elura 100) is on sale for $50 cheaper than i purchased it a few weeks ago. I know that i can get the difference (or at least i'm pretty sure that i can???). Do i just bring in the receipt? Do i need to go to customer service to get the difference back?

Thanks!
A.B.

[Sim]

1) Is it worth it to buy the PSP (extended warranty) on an LCD TV?

2) Is it a good idea to buy all those fancy high end over priced cables for TVs? Is the quality even noticable for someone who isn't super picky.

Thanks!

[gforce0124]

I would like to know, how come you guys do not Price match with Canada computers when they get all there stock from canadian retailers. Also even though FS and BB are both the same companies, why don't you guys? cause I tried to price match Logitech Z5500 speakers but BB gave me an answer that Canada computers is not a Candian computer store and all of there stock is from the US.


Thanks for the help, I also have another question? Is it a good idea to buy warrenty for cordless phones? I'm mostly looking directly at panasonic as I like there phone's and I haven't had a problem with them.

[ianmills]

The markup, is frankly in accessories. 35-60% which is why you may notice a good "bargaining tool" is when you are buying cables, stands, wall mounts, PSP, etc casue we can play with the numbers a little more. It's all about maintaing the bottom line.


I am sorry, but I'm going to call BS on this one. Markups on cables in accessories often far exceed 100%. Are you telling me that all the Monster cable crap is ONLY marked up 35-60%? (e.g. http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0665000FS10024909&catid=11343 ) Future shop must have no idea how to run a business. Future shop could buy a much CHEAPER item, have a markup of over 300% (with a much greater per-unit profit), and STILL GIVE THE CUSTOMER A CHEAPER PRICE. Care to explain this?

[nopn]

Good Question!

Several reasons. Long story short, I get frustrated sometiems with customers. Demands, attitudes, the I am the customer I am always right I can talk to you how I like. WRONG. I will not deal with that, so this allows me to kinda deal with peoples problems on the other side of the fence without feeling personally attacked.

Another reason is so I can see peoples honest to god concerns without the factor of being in the store. No oens heated and fired up, just talking rationally. Also though so maybe yuo guys can have a little better perspective of what goes on there. That way perhaps you can get that better deal you were looking for, and you are aware of whatever rights yuo have to whatever policy weather it be return or price protection. Which seem to be the most sensitive topics.

i understand, espically for two persons having the same attitudes. :lol: :lol:

[gqbluez]

why would u say that the person that buys the tv without buying the overpriced cables and extended warranty would regret the picture. its all the same, u could use $3 RCA white/red/yellow and connect them to component and still get a good picture....

You obviously have no idea what you're talking about and if you think plugging in $3 red/white/yellow cables are going to give you good quality in comparison to actual component or HDMI cables you really are living in la la land.

I understand that you always seem to be pissed off at Futureshop or Bestbuy or whatever retailer refuses to bend over backwards for you but please dont post stupid comments like that that may effect other people who are actually looking for good picture quality and a quality setup. They shouldn't be punished for your low standards.

[kcorscadden]

I don't work for FS or BB, but I am always fascinated at how people treat the people that work at these stores. I have seen customers literally yell at the reps because they were not satisfied with whatever they were buying/bought.

Lets reverse the roles shall we. What if that employee from FS or BB came into your line of work and started yelling at you or being a smart ass or whatever? How would that make you feel? Probably, not so good eh. So I can understand why an associate would be a little flustered when dealing with a hard ass potential customer. Key word being POTENTIAL. You haven't bought anything yet, so you are not really a customer yet.

There is a huge difference between negotiating a price and demanding a price. Negotiating is an art, it's something that you learn over time. The one thing that I would love about working at FS, is that since it is commission based, you can basically choose your customers as they will reflect your paycheque. The OP seems like a nice a guy and I am sure that he has fired a lot of potential sales as the hassle just isn't worth it. I know I wouldn't put up with the crap that these guys do. Some people just aren't worth the time to deal with and if someone else wants to deal with that person, so be it. It just isn't worth the headaches and then that one person throws your whole day off for the rest of your shift.

If people would actually go in with a little bit of knowledge before going into the store, it would probably make things a whole lot easier. Do all your research on the products, price, etc so that you know a little something before hand. Some reps don't know crap about something thats just the way it is sometimes, but since you haven't done any research prior to going in, how would you know the difference until afterwards? You then get pissed off and mad because you felt like you got screwed and then you take it out on a different rep when you make another purchase. It was your own fault for not educating yourself.

As for PM's, really once you have left the store, the sale is final. Technically, FS or BB doesn't have to match you a couple of days or weeks later as you AGREED to pay the price at the time of purchase. This is another thing that I laugh at. Customers come in saying that they bought this product and that a different company is offering the same product for $50 less than what they paid for. Guess what..... TOO BAD, you agreed to pay the price at the time of purchase. FS or BB DO NOT HAVE TO PM. They only do it for customer satisfaction and guarantee and all that stuff because they want you to come back. They have no obligation to PM after you have purchased. So if you have been in this situation, and they actually credited you that $50 back, consider yourself lucky as they don't have to do it.

Go in with a open mind and be calm. Use your gut instincts and simply analyze the information that is being given to you. Go home and reflect on the info given to you and then make a decision. DO NOT IMPULSE BUY !!! I think this is where people get mad. They walk into a store, walk up to a rep and inquire about a specific product and then they buy on the spot. They then realize a few days later that they got screwed and then go back in ranting and raving about this as it was the company's fault from the customer's eyes. Had you actually gone home and thought about the info given to you, maybe you would have seen the BS. It is like buying a car, would you go in and test drive a car, get info and buy all within a matter of hrs? Unless you are an idiot, NO you wouldn't. So what makes buying a LCD TV or whatever any different from buying a car, NOTHING !!!

Most people are good at spotting BS info, when that happens, walk away or ask for another rep. Don't get into an argument with the rep as that does nothing for you or the rep. All it does is piss you off and gives a misconceived notion about the company because of ONE rep that may not have been aware of a certain thing about the product you were inquiring about. Perhaps a different rep that is more educated can help you with your inquiry.

This is just based on my experiences from walking into various stores, and I am just fascinated but how people treat others. Imagine if the shoe was on the other foot? I would imagine things would change pretty quick.

[Muncher]

I think the guys at FS should stop being so pushy with the warranties. I ordered a laptop online, with Corel Wordperfect Office mail in rebate. When I went it, he told me that the software is only for Word processing, no spreadsheet, no graphics. I found out the next day that this was wrong.

He then tried to sell me an extended warranty - starting filling in the info without asking me first and got so aggressive telling me I needed it, I asked if he knew the laptop was going to break soon.

Anyhow I just said "forget the whole thing" and walked out because he insisted that I take the warranty and also told me off for "misinterpreting" the online ad that said Corel Office had more than word processing.

Actually I would have bought the warranty anyway if he wasn't so arrogant. Several years ago, I bought a Sony Viao which busted after 2 years, and FS just told me to go pick a new Toshiba for the same price.

[Konowl]

I am sorry, but I'm going to call BS on this one. Markups on cables in accessories often far exceed 100%. Are you telling me that all the Monster cable crap is ONLY marked up 35-60%? (e.g. http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0665000FS10024909&catid=11343 ) Future shop must have no idea how to run a business. Future shop could buy a much CHEAPER item, have a markup of over 300% (with a much greater per-unit profit), and STILL GIVE THE CUSTOMER A CHEAPER PRICE. Care to explain this?

Hahaha. I'm sure he meant the category in general is marked up 35-60%. Also, I think Future Shop does know how to run their business, as they've been around a long time. Maybe you should go run it? You can go in there with your "OH MY GOD WE'RE MAKING TOO MUCH ON THESE ITEMS LET'S SLASH THEM" attitude. Higher profits are bound to follow. Oh wait, once you realize what they lose money on, you might have a change of heart.

[psiwashing]

will FS price match the alleged xbox 360 deal that rogers video is running for $399??? what's the best way of doing it if it is a "grey" situation.

if not, what would you advise me to do:

I have about $250 in FS GC's saved up, but rogers video is going to save 100 in cash.

[Adriokor]

Hi,

I used to work for FF, few things:

FF and BB have the most mark-up (out of all the products) on accessories such as cables and the like, you should either bargain or look for a better deal somewhere else or you are giving your money for free IMO.

PSP, this is where FF and BB biggest portion of profit margins come in, you should only buy it based on your previous experiences, remember it is insurance that’s all.

Read the PSP agreement before you buy it to see what is covered.

One thing most people do now know is that when your product breaks and gets replaced, the warranty is voided meaning if you buy 3yr warranty and the product breaks 1.5 years from now you have to buy a new PSP at that point to have continuous coverage.

If you are conservative and must have a PSP, compare it to the manufacturer warranty which is usually better (go to their website).

Also is it really worth to buy warranty? If you spend 2k on an LCD and it breaks down 3 years from now the chances are that new cheaper tvs will be available at that time which give you better quality for 1/3 the price.

A few examples on PSP:
PCs are easy to fix as you can just buy one components that broke down (and they don't break down easily) so just get a technician or a friend to install it and you will save money. No PSP needed. Plus component prices depreciate at a very high rate.

Cameras and all other things, you should look at what the PSP covers (ex. damage by dropping the product) and your own history of maintenance of the products you buy.

My friend buys PSP for lets say a camera and after a few years replaces the product (as he damages it) for a better, newer version (the old version is not available by then, but he is cheating the store ofcourse so your moral values come in)

Salesman are pushy with PSPs because their managers are on their asses, I simply tell them I used to work for one of your stores, I know what it's all about and I do not want it, period, do not try to convince me anymore or get your manager so I can buy the product. This gets the point across and they don't annoy me anymore.

When you encounter a bad salesman get a manager, remember that those people do not get paid much (so usually do not care much) on top of that they have to put up with a lot of bs from customers, to most of them you are just another customer. Be nice to them and they will be nice to you (most of the time).

The way I look at it, I want my day at work to go by nice and easy and so do they.

If they don't want to PM or whatever else, ask the manager to explain to you why and what is the exact policy, if you know they are not being right, complain to the head office (get their employee number or first and last name).

[GrumpyCellUser]

Why am I not being served at a store?!

i walk into a Futureshop with an intention to purchase a TV but no one came up to help me. I was looking at TVs over 50 inches and so I figured someone would be smart enough to come and give me an opinion or help me out by telling me about the different brands etc. I looked around, couple of guys standing around and one or two literally just walked right passed me.

I smiled and just walked out knowing that someone missed an easy sell.

[nighthawk26]

This is a good thread.

One question, why can't FS price match on 'Instant Rebates"? Isn't instant rebates are like the product is on sale?

Thanks

Are you sure you aren't thinking of a mail in rebate? Those are case by case. NO set policy in place. As for instant rebates, of course they are able to have a price beat

[nighthawk26]

Can you bargain the price of a TV on Boxing Day? How would you go about that, would you ask them to throw in like a dvd player, say ill pay 2100 instead of 2200? Thanks

Ahh, a good off the ercord conversation. ALL of this will depend on your salesperson to tell you the truth. A guy who's been around a while knows lots of ins and outs. THe company HATES this becasue they want every customer to be treated the same. PRICE included. Think about it. You buy a TV for $2000. They you go to your neighbours house all proud of yuor TV to not only find out they have the same one but they paid $1800. How does that make you feel? INternally we call it a fair price policy. Thats a crappy feeling we don't want people to have. Does not give a good perception ya know. You shouldn't have to hammer your way to a good price, you should just get a fair price.

HOWEVER, life is not like this in a commission world. On boxing day a large store will do over a million dollers. NO way can management go through every single deal and the salespeople are SO busy they dont' wanna haggle with you either. MYSELF, I do whatever I can to not get myself fired, give you what you want if it's possible and move on tot he next. As I've said before. DONT LIE. Don't tell the sales guy I can get it at X store and they will do that. You will look silly? Think about it... if you can get it there for that price why are you at Future Shop. It's not in the good of your heart!

I'll get to the point, always ask for a deal, be reasonable don't try to "steal" the thing. The more accessories and warranty you buy the better luck you have. If it's a good salesperson he'll be presenting the cabels and accessories, and warranty early in the sale. Don't be shy to say ok tell you what, if I buy this and that will you do this? Use your discresion. Of course this assumes you want/need these things in the first place. Remember he's on commission, use common sense. If he's spent time with you he does not want it to be wasted so if he says he can't do something he likely can't.

[nighthawk26]

Thank you sooooooo much so far - so helpful!!!

One more question. The camera that i bought (Canon Elura 100) is on sale for $50 cheaper than i purchased it a few weeks ago. I know that i can get the difference (or at least i'm pretty sure that i can???). Do i just bring in the receipt? Do i need to go to customer service to get the difference back?

Thanks!
A.B.

Yes you would go to Customer service and ge tthe $50. If it's in our store you get the $50 back, if it's at a competitor you get $50 PLUS 10% of the difference. NOT THE DIFFERENCE OF THE TOTAL PRICE. (can yous ee I get this argument all the time?) You get $5.00 more off. 10% of the price beat!

I do haev an added bonus for you POSSIBLY. Are you the one that bought thw warranty? If it is you, you will get money back too on that. The new price of the camcorder will drop you to a lower price point for the warranty. I THINK $40 bucks! ;)

[nighthawk26]

1) Is it worth it to buy the PSP (extended warranty) on an LCD TV?

2) Is it a good idea to buy all those fancy high end over priced cables for TVs? Is the quality even noticable for someone who isn't super picky.

Thanks!

1.) I would and I did myself. same with when I sold to my uncle. This is a touchy subject with great differences in opinion. Bottom line is if you like piece of mind and not to worry about things do it for sure. If you dont' wanna think about a nasty expensive repair do it. If you are financing over 36 months DO it, it's like $13 a month and a paltry 48 cents a day. Thing to keep in mind is statistically (as tracked by the warranty company) 67% of flat panel TV's that have A (any) problem are either too expensive to fix or not fixable at all which means you get a NEW TV. Also covers lightening and power surges which are a major contributer to irrepairable TV's.

2.) Cables ABSOLUTLY make a difference. HOWEVER it is relative to the TV you have or are buying and the sources you are hooking up to it. I always tell people they need cables but don't recomment the exact cable till we have chosen a TV. For example. EDTV plasma needs a certain cable whil eif you get HD you need to transfer higher bandwidth so take a step up. And if you are geting an HD 1080P TV you have to have HDMI that can transfer extreamly high bandwidth. Some stores will have demos set up for you to see. Same TV and source with different cables. Little tip for you though, you dont' have to buy the top ultra cables. Even myself i use the ones below that, and it's 90% of what I sell. Nothing wrong with buying in the middle. not too crappy, not the best. Myself and most people are comfortable with that.

[nighthawk26]

Thanks for the help, I also have another question? Is it a good idea to buy warrenty for cordless phones? I'm mostly looking directly at panasonic as I like there phone's and I haven't had a problem with them.

Really depnds on the price of the phone. IF it's over $200 it's PSP, and under $200 it's PRP. PRP is a replacement plan which has you phone a 1800 number. You phone that number and they will send yo a box and you send your phone to them, when they get it they will ship you a new phone. Regular PSP is something I would not buy however. So I suppose my answer is if the phone is under $200 yes, if not, NO.

[nighthawk26]

why would u say that the person that buys the tv without buying the overpriced cables and extended warranty would regret the picture. its all the same, u could use $3 RCA white/red/yellow and connect them to component and still get a good picture and the warranty is too expensive for most tv's. $$319.99 for 2 years for a LCD tv, when u get 1 year from the manufacturer and also some when u register for the warranty u get another 3 months warranty. 15 months for FREE or 24 months for $$319.99...9 months @ $36 a month for a tv, come on? it may be a reason why BB has removed comission sales because of the forced sales of items not NEEDED. I hope all people will smarten up before the 30 days and return all that crap they did not NEED.

Actually, I have that exact demo at my store for people just like you. I used to have it on 2 different TV's but again people like you would tell me I have changed the settings to make the one look better and the other worse. Now I have it on the SAME TV on a split screen. No more arguments. Enjoy your washed out picture with often but not always video noise. THis is a topic I will not debate. Another thing I tell every customer when looking at TV's. STOP SPENDING MONEY WHEN YOU SEE NO DIFFERENCE! I deal with people like you every day. They scrutinize every TV with a fine tooth comb. YOu read every spec and feature there is. At at the end of the Day you buy a more expensive TV, cheap out on the cables themn come back telling me it looks like crap. WHen all the while you should have just bought the cheaper TV anyways.

As for the warranty, it's a personal decision. I have in no way in any post incisted people buy anything. I am there to educate people as to what is avail. so they can make informed decisions. People are not sheep as you would like them to all flock back to the stores to return their PSP. Funny thing is if/when they have a problem they won't call you to tell you it's your fault, it will be the stores. But not with me because I always give them a choice.

[nighthawk26]

I don't work for FS or BB, but I am always fascinated at how people treat the people that work at these stores. I have seen customers literally yell at the reps because they were not satisfied with whatever they were buying/bought.

Lets reverse the roles shall we. What if that employee from FS or BB came into your line of work and started yelling at you or being a smart ass or whatever? How would that make you feel? Probably, not so good eh. So I can understand why an associate would be a little flustered when dealing with a hard ass potential customer. Key word being POTENTIAL. You haven't bought anything yet, so you are not really a customer yet.

There is a huge difference between negotiating a price and demanding a price. Negotiating is an art, it's something that you learn over time. The one thing that I would love about working at FS, is that since it is commission based, you can basically choose your customers as they will reflect your paycheque. The OP seems like a nice a guy and I am sure that he has fired a lot of potential sales as the hassle just isn't worth it. I know I wouldn't put up with the crap that these guys do. Some people just aren't worth the time to deal with and if someone else wants to deal with that person, so be it. It just isn't worth the headaches and then that one person throws your whole day off for the rest of your shift.

If people would actually go in with a little bit of knowledge before going into the store, it would probably make things a whole lot easier. Do all your research on the products, price, etc so that you know a little something before hand. Some reps don't know crap about something thats just the way it is sometimes, but since you haven't done any research prior to going in, how would you know the difference until afterwards? You then get pissed off and mad because you felt like you got screwed and then you take it out on a different rep when you make another purchase. It was your own fault for not educating yourself.

As for PM's, really once you have left the store, the sale is final. Technically, FS or BB doesn't have to match you a couple of days or weeks later as you AGREED to pay the price at the time of purchase. This is another thing that I laugh at. Customers come in saying that they bought this product and that a different company is offering the same product for $50 less than what they paid for. Guess what..... TOO BAD, you agreed to pay the price at the time of purchase. FS or BB DO NOT HAVE TO PM. They only do it for customer satisfaction and guarantee and all that stuff because they want you to come back. They have no obligation to PM after you have purchased. So if you have been in this situation, and they actually credited you that $50 back, consider yourself lucky as they don't have to do it.

Go in with a open mind and be calm. Use your gut instincts and simply analyze the information that is being given to you. Go home and reflect on the info given to you and then make a decision. DO NOT IMPULSE BUY !!! I think this is where people get mad. They walk into a store, walk up to a rep and inquire about a specific product and then they buy on the spot. They then realize a few days later that they got screwed and then go back in ranting and raving about this as it was the company's fault from the customer's eyes. Had you actually gone home and thought about the info given to you, maybe you would have seen the BS. It is like buying a car, would you go in and test drive a car, get info and buy all within a matter of hrs? Unless you are an idiot, NO you wouldn't. So what makes buying a LCD TV or whatever any different from buying a car, NOTHING !!!

Most people are good at spotting BS info, when that happens, walk away or ask for another rep. Don't get into an argument with the rep as that does nothing for you or the rep. All it does is piss you off and gives a misconceived notion about the company because of ONE rep that may not have been aware of a certain thing about the product you were inquiring about. Perhaps a different rep that is more educated can help you with your inquiry.

This is just based on my experiences from walking into various stores, and I am just fascinated but how people treat others. Imagine if the shoe was on the other foot? I would imagine things would change pretty quick.

Frankly, I apprecaite this post. It is VERY true. And the price match policy is not only for customer service. It's a closing tool for the reps. And you're right, not everyone knows everything. And for sure people can spot BS. I try to train all my guys to look up info if you have too. Builds much more rapport and credibility with the customer. But there are the asses that come in tryign to educate us. LOVE THOSE GUYS. Just talk for the sake of talking. Or to impress the wife or GF. THose ones are really fun. I have no problem putting them in their place in front of whoever they are with. I'm not rude, I just treat them as they treat me. Again, thanks for the post. It is a very accurate description of what it's like.

[nighthawk26]

I am sorry, but I'm going to call BS on this one. Markups on cables in accessories often far exceed 100%. Are you telling me that all the Monster cable crap is ONLY marked up 35-60%? (e.g. http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0665000FS10024909&catid=11343 ) Future shop must have no idea how to run a business. Future shop could buy a much CHEAPER item, have a markup of over 300% (with a much greater per-unit profit), and STILL GIVE THE CUSTOMER A CHEAPER PRICE. Care to explain this?

Of course. Every accessory is different. Some are close to 100%, I was stating the average. EXCEPT computer accessories. Also the cheap cheap cables (the new Rocketfish) we have. I'll tell you now. HDMI to DVI, $69.00 has a cost of about $9 bucks. THis is as yuo mentioned why we carry it. people want a cheaper alternative to the monster. But expect a cheaper picture. I'll be straight with you. A $159.99 monster video 3 component cable has a cost of about $85 bucks. SO you tell me, a cable with a cost of $9 and another with a cost of $80, THESE ARE OUR COSTS. Which should be better. Forget retail. Do the math, we don't MAKE much less on the rocketfish so why not only sell that? Because it's not as good as monster. Did I explain that alright?

[nighthawk26]

I think the guys at FS should stop being so pushy with the warranties. I ordered a laptop online, with Corel Wordperfect Office mail in rebate. When I went it, he told me that the software is only for Word processing, no spreadsheet, no graphics. I found out the next day that this was wrong.

He then tried to sell me an extended warranty - starting filling in the info without asking me first and got so aggressive telling me I needed it, I asked if he knew the laptop was going to break soon.

Anyhow I just said "forget the whole thing" and walked out because he insisted that I take the warranty and also told me off for "misinterpreting" the online ad that said Corel Office had more than word processing.

Actually I would have bought the warranty anyway if he wasn't so arrogant. Several years ago, I bought a Sony Viao which busted after 2 years, and FS just told me to go pick a new Toshiba for the same price.

So you kicked yourself to spite us? You had a good experience with the warranty already. If he was filling out the "T-BAR" it's his job. He has to do that. As for being pusy so are some used car salesmen, but dont' paint us all with the same brush. I am aggressive too, but only to make sure people listen. If they say no, of course I will ask why. Maybe you didn't understand something. I will always find out what your objetion is. As long as you are making an educated decision I dont' care what it is. Just don't come cry to me saying I sold you a piece of crap IF it has a problem.

As per the smart comment about him knowing if we know it's going to break. Comments like that will have me care less if you leave. You're a grownup. Control your emotions. Stand by what your thoughts are, and god forbid you've never made a mistake. I'm sure he made a mistake about the corel, yet you assume he's lying to you. How fair is that?

[nighthawk26]

i did not say that it is the best way, but it will work.WONT IT? i did not say it would be a GREAT/perfect picture, but its not going to look anywhere near as bad as to say then spend $ on more expensive monster ones will make it better than say a no name one purchased online. HDMI is a digital signal, it does not matter what type of cable you use. Monoprice dot com $7 or $150 monster at FS.
AND who gives a FU** what the employee feels like, I am also in sales, I dont look for any respect or feelings....its business, end of the day my customers want the best quality for the least amount of $(what do think this forum is for?). I treat them the same way i get treated. I have never been rude directly to a salesperson and just as they have not been to me, after i walk away with my deal, who cares what they think. it may sound rude to u, but i dont give a SH** what you think either.

Thats ok. You should see what we think of you after you've left. Seriously, you are a dime a dozen and I can spot you a mile away. You seem a little jaded, perhaps sales is not for you. You live in you "lala land". You justify your cheapness and enjoy your 7 dolllar cable. Or educate yourself, go to a store and have someone hook 2 side by side TV's so you can see for yourself. As for HDMI, yes it's digital but the length of the cable will play a HUGE roll. Anything over 6 FT can start to have lots of problems with cheap cables. Signal won't even sink lots of times. ALSO, although the transmission is digital, the lack of sheilding allows the wires within these cheap cables to act as super highways for analoge noise to carry into your components. Get a clue man. Even many TV's recomment using quality cables. When you buy your Porshe (wait, thats overpriced. You can get a ford for way less), be sure to put regular gas in it and just accept the piss poor performance, cause he's it's not that bad.. is it?

[nighthawk26]

will FS price match the alleged xbox 360 deal that rogers video is running for $399??? what's the best way of doing it if it is a "grey" situation.

if not, what would you advise me to do:

I have about $250 in FS GC's saved up, but rogers video is going to save 100 in cash.


I'm not 100% up to speed with this deal at rogers. How do you get it or is it just plain and simple $399 is the price? Give me the details and I can better respond. If nothign can me done, don't be silly. Save the $100 cash, buy it at rogers. I'm sure at some point you can spend the $250 at FS and not feel ripped off for it! make sense? But let me know about the deal and I'll ask the entertainment co-ordinator.

[nighthawk26]

Hi,

I used to work for FF, few things:

FF and BB have the most mark-up (out of all the products) on accessories such as cables and the like, you should either bargain or look for a better deal somewhere else or you are giving your money for free IMO.

PSP, this is where FF and BB biggest portion of profit margins come in, you should only buy it based on your previous experiences, remember it is insurance that’s all.

Read the PSP agreement before you buy it to see what is covered.

One thing most people do now know is that when your product breaks and gets replaced, the warranty is voided meaning if you buy 3yr warranty and the product breaks 1.5 years from now you have to buy a new PSP at that point to have continuous coverage.

If you are conservative and must have a PSP, compare it to the manufacturer warranty which is usually better (go to their website).

Also is it really worth to buy warranty? If you spend 2k on an LCD and it breaks down 3 years from now the chances are that new cheaper tvs will be available at that time which give you better quality for 1/3 the price.

A few examples on PSP:
PCs are easy to fix as you can just buy one components that broke down (and they don't break down easily) so just get a technician or a friend to install it and you will save money. No PSP needed. Plus component prices depreciate at a very high rate.

Cameras and all other things, you should look at what the PSP covers (ex. damage by dropping the product) and your own history of maintenance of the products you buy.

My friend buys PSP for lets say a camera and after a few years replaces the product (as he damages it) for a better, newer version (the old version is not available by then, but he is cheating the store ofcourse so your moral values come in)

Salesman are pushy with PSPs because their managers are on their asses, I simply tell them I used to work for one of your stores, I know what it's all about and I do not want it, period, do not try to convince me anymore or get your manager so I can buy the product. This gets the point across and they don't annoy me anymore.

When you encounter a bad salesman get a manager, remember that those people do not get paid much (so usually do not care much) on top of that they have to put up with a lot of bs from customers, to most of them you are just another customer. Be nice to them and they will be nice to you (most of the time).

The way I look at it, I want my day at work to go by nice and easy and so do they.

If they don't want to PM or whatever else, ask the manager to explain to you why and what is the exact policy, if you know they are not being right, complain to the head office (get their employee number or first and last name).


Good post!

Bottom line is educate yourself!

You make valid points re: dropping prices if technology.

Also, correct about fullfilment of warranty with the replacement. But isn't that the point? Without it you would have had nothing. THis is why 99% of the time, people will rebuy the warranty with the replacement product. They have seen it work in front of their eyes.

I appreciat the unbias post btw. Nothign wrong with facts. In the end of the day like you said, it's a personal decision. And I leave it at that with my customers.

[nighthawk26]

Why am I not being served at a store?!

i walk into a Futureshop with an intention to purchase a TV but no one came up to help me. I was looking at TVs over 50 inches and so I figured someone would be smart enough to come and give me an opinion or help me out by telling me about the different brands etc. I looked around, couple of guys standing around and one or two literally just walked right passed me.

I smiled and just walked out knowing that someone missed an easy sell.


Idiot salespeople. All I can say. Why would someone who makes commission not want to sell you something. I'm at a loss for words but I know it does happen. Sometimes that happens in my store but usually only if I'm near the computer department and we aren't busy but they are swamped. People look at us like we dont' wanna help but really we have NO clue about that stuff so can not be help, but customers dont' know that.

[Adriokor]

Also, correct about fullfilment of warranty with the replacement. But isn't that the point? Without it you would have had nothing. THis is why 99% of the time, people will rebuy the warranty with the replacement product. They have seen it work in front of their eyes.


I just wanted the people to know as I have encountered people who think the PSP will last for the 3 years even after a fix/replacement. This causes unneccessary frustrations and people who vouch never to shop there again.

Please always read the terms and conditios of whatever you are buying.

[nighthawk26]

I just wanted the people to know as I have encountered people who think the PSP will last for the 3 years even after a fix/replacement. This causes unneccessary frustrations and people who vouch never to shop there again.

Please always read the terms and conditios of whatever you are buying.

ONE, last point to your post you have to consider.

Use digital cameras for example. You buy a 2mp camera a few years ago. We replace it with a 6mp today. Yes cost have dropped but technology has changed.

Another example I did this last week actually. Customer had a 60: Sony 1080I TV he bought about 18 months ago. had a $2900 repaid so we had to replace it. He got a 60" SXRD 1080p TV. Things work out this way just as much as the other.

[SuperGT]

Aren't you afriad they will smoke you out from here? like asking the admins for your IP and stuff.

[Steeve Urkel]

Well here is the ugly truth. Not that it's good but reality. If you are looking at something small it might be harder to get help as it pays less commission. This is another reason they are slowy changing some positions to non commission. for products that are small, while they leave large more complex thigns to "product experts" who have a great deal mroe training. If you're not getting help on bigger things, it's news to me. We fight over you guys! ;)

Other possible answers are if people are having a bad day you can only ask so many times "how are you today sir" only to hear "just looking". Honestly I have been doing this for so long I will flat out say "thats great, but I asked you how you were doing". Some salespeople think they are bothering you. Frankly these are the people that should work for bestbuy. Honestly, not everyone is cut out for a commission job, but sadly some have one with us.

As for the mystery shoppers. 8 Years there and I've never had one. Never had one that I've known of and never had one I've heard anyone to have. And I have been in management there in the past too, and still no discussions. Nothing at the store level anyways. What happens at Head office is news to me though.

Well,
my latest trip to FS involved looking at Laptops and acessories and I was there 1/2 for work but also looking to buy a laptop- a higher end one also.
Still waited over 30 min and the SA left and said someonelse would assiste me...

I guess that is also why some cell phone companies no longer sell their products at FS.
I used to have to go in for a couple companies and check up on how the salespeople try and sell the products to consumers and what their sales pitch is...and that would go back to the product manufacturer or phone copmany........not allowed to say who it was for though...:lol:

[Traian2003]

When it comes to price matching, can i price get a larger quantity.

Okay this is the story, I bought 10 product X from Staples for 9.95$, then I went to FutureShop and they had it for 69.95$. I told them to PM it, which they did so I got it for 4$ something, but besides the point. Now I told them that I would like to purchase 20 Xs. They said, they would only PM one X. I even told them to drop the 10%, and just sell them for 9.95$. They refused. :confused: Does PMing only allow you to purchase one unit, or more at the price.

[markwilliams]

For example. EDTV plasma needs a certain cable whil eif you get HD you need to transfer higher bandwidth so take a step up. And if you are geting an HD 1080P TV you have to have HDMI that can transfer extreamly high bandwidth. Some stores will have demos set up for you to see. Same TV and source with different cables. Little tip for you though, you dont' have to buy the top ultra cables. Even myself i use the ones below that, and it's 90% of what I sell. Nothing wrong with buying in the middle. not too crappy, not the best. Myself and most people are comfortable with that.

You're kidding right? Read up on the hdmi spec, even the new hdmi 1.3. You can use any hdmi cable regardless of price and obtain the same picture quality. With HDMI the signal either gets to the display device or it doesn't. Your statement is false. Its the spec that decides the bandwidth not the cable. Also consider how much more EMI/RF is at a large store like futureshop vs your home.


Anyone who is looking to buy a TV and actually wants to see real picture quality with properly calibrated TV's go visit a small store such as liptons, kromer, ehr etc. Ask if the TV has been calibrated by an ISF tech, if so those are the true/proper settings for that display.

[D-Sisive]

so before BB bought out FS, i had a PSP from january 2003 for a 42" tv, its a 6 year PSP i paid 300 for

i still have the old brochure stapled to my receipt that says 3 lemon warranty and if they replace the product, the remainder of the psp is carried onto the replacement product

that is still valid right? even if the new PSP says once replaced, the warranty is voided and you have to rebuy a new one

i only ask cause if i have one more problem with the tv, i am going to ask for a replacement since its at the 3 lemon warranty situation now and i can see it breaking down again before january 2009

if they dont have a similar replacement tv, i can get store credit and pay the difference for a newer model right?

[nighthawk26]

Aren't you afriad they will smoke you out from here? like asking the admins for your IP and stuff.

Well 2 things to that. I have thought about it to be hoenst, but then I realized I am not doing anythign wrong. I'm not speaking out against the company, I'm not saying anythign negative. I'm speaking the truth and if there is somethind I don't like abou tthe company I walk a very line line in the way I word it. On the other hand, with the privacy act, a.) admins acn't give my info unless it's a legal matter, and b.) if they did for wahteve reason and I was fired, I got 8 years under me, do you know what they would have to buy me out at? Not to mention the fact I would charge them with wrongful dismissal. Bottom line is however I'm doing nothign wrong. At this point I'm almost feeling like a liason between the company and our customers.

[nighthawk26]

Well,
my latest trip to FS involved looking at Laptops and acessories and I was there 1/2 for work but also looking to buy a laptop- a higher end one also.
Still waited over 30 min and the SA left and said someonelse would assiste me...

I guess that is also why some cell phone companies no longer sell their products at FS.
I used to have to go in for a couple companies and check up on how the salespeople try and sell the products to consumers and what their sales pitch is...and that would go back to the product manufacturer or phone copmany........not allowed to say who it was for though...:lol:

As an FYI that has NOTHING to do with why we don't carry Rogers anymore. Bottom line is it's business. Ask you this. Where do you see Telus and Rogers sold in the same location? One had to go, and Telus pays us WAY more money and we do far more business with them. It's all about competitive branding. We still have Fido and that is Rogers. There goes yuor argument. And at this point they are begging us to come back. I hear rumours it MAY happen however Telus will likely pull out and I'm certain thats not beneficial to FS.

As for not getting help with laptops, my appologies. Should not happen. Perhaps they were quite busy. Certainly you can't fault the person who was clearly busy yet took the time to recognize you and let you know someone would be with you as they likely had a customer or 2 of their own.

[nighthawk26]

When it comes to price matching, can i price get a larger quantity.

Okay this is the story, I bought 10 product X from Staples for 9.95$, then I went to FutureShop and they had it for 69.95$. I told them to PM it, which they did so I got it for 4$ something, but besides the point. Now I told them that I would like to purchase 20 Xs. They said, they would only PM one X. I even told them to drop the 10%, and just sell them for 9.95$. They refused. :confused: Does PMing only allow you to purchase one unit, or more at the price.

Hmmm, ok stumped for the frist time. Not sure on that. I will check it out and let you know. Don't see why not at the moment but perhaps there is some strange reason why.

[nighthawk26]

You're kidding right? Read up on the hdmi spec, even the new hdmi 1.3. You can use any hdmi cable regardless of price and obtain the same picture quality. With HDMI the signal either gets to the display device or it doesn't. Your statement is false. Its the spec that decides the bandwidth not the cable. Also consider how much more EMI/RF is at a large store like futureshop vs your home.


Anyone who is looking to buy a TV and actually wants to see real picture quality with properly calibrated TV's go visit a small store such as liptons, kromer, ehr etc. Ask if the TV has been calibrated by an ISF tech, if so those are the true/proper settings for that display.

You did read the post right? I didn't say that the picture would be better. I said you have to watch long length runs. I also did mention RF/EMI interfearence and that will affect picture. All this is subjective. I have customers that don't see a difference between SD and HDTV for god sakes. Shuold I tell them they are wrong too. The bottom line with all of this is I show people everything. I let them choose. No one has a gun to anyones head at FS. Another issue with cheap cables (check out the rocketfish we sell cheap) is half the time the stuff falls apart. In my store alone on demos we have ruined 3 of them. Unplugged 2 hdmi and one component from a TV and the end piece got stuck in the TV. NEVER has that happened with monster.

[nighthawk26]

so before BB bought out FS, i had a PSP from january 2003 for a 42" tv, its a 6 year PSP i paid 300 for

i still have the old brochure stapled to my receipt that says 3 lemon warranty and if they replace the product, the remainder of the psp is carried onto the replacement product

that is still valid right? even if the new PSP says once replaced, the warranty is voided and you have to rebuy a new one

i only ask cause if i have one more problem with the tv, i am going to ask for a replacement since its at the 3 lemon warranty situation now and i can see it breaking down again before january 2009

if they dont have a similar replacement tv, i can get store credit and pay the difference for a newer model right?

Good question. Yes!! Any agreements made before changes to PSP policy are of course in tact. Thats a perfect example though of how much these warranties do cost US. Now when yuo got your TV, the PSP was likely sold under projection warranty. Issue was that the technology changed faster than the PSP policy so you benefited from PSP at a price that was set up for projos. That changed to LCD projo shortly after which saw a price increase and a drop from 6 year to 5 year. Shortly after that, that program was costing us a fortune and the years dropped to 4 and the price went up again. It's been like that for well over a year now. As for the lemon policy that changed before BB bought us. There have always been revisions made to the policy. Another policy that I believe is still unwritten at this point but a policy none the less is if you take something in for a repair, and it comes back and is not working again within 30 days, your warranty (if you want it to) will automatically replace your product. Of course at that point as we are discussing your PSP is deemed fullfilled. Does that answer your question?

[nighthawk26]

Anyone who is looking to buy a TV and actually wants to see real picture quality with properly calibrated TV's go visit a small store such as liptons, kromer, ehr etc. Ask if the TV has been calibrated by an ISF tech, if so those are the true/proper settings for that display.

Dude, anyone buying TV's specifically tuned by an ISF tech aren't on here looking to save every buck possible. And do speaking of pic quality do you realize how few people notice a difference with an ISF spec TV? NEver mind only to find out they are paying a HUGE amount of cash to have it tuned. I read in forums all the time abuot people FLYING ISF techs in. Is this supposed to impress their online buddies? Get a grip man!

[markwilliams]

My statement was that if you want to see the best comparisons between displays you should view it with a properly calibrated display for comparisons. Being a customer I'd like to see the proper picture and judge from there.

[zoro69]

"As for PM's, really once you have left the store, the sale is final. Technically, FS or BB doesn't have to match you a couple of days or weeks later as you AGREED to pay the price at the time of purchase."

Of course they have to do it. As soon as they advertise it on a giant sign, their website and any any where else its part of the deal. There are a number of cases with the competiton bureau being involved in advertised price match policies not being followed on their website(don't name companies involved when they get the company to comply)

[nighthawk26]

My statement was that if you want to see the best comparisons between displays you should view it with a properly calibrated display for comparisons. Being a customer I'd like to see the proper picture and judge from there.

And what do you deem to be a "properly calibrated display"? An ISF set up? One that would be seen in less than 1% of homes? If anything would think that was misrepresentation in the store. How many people do you thin pay the money to have that done? And if they are int hat store to watch those ISF calibrated sets how can they compare anything if they don't plan on dong it themselves. Your statement applies to the FAR LESS than 1% of people that are looking for this and in no way can you say retailers like FS are misrepresenting TV's.

[nighthawk26]

"As for PM's, really once you have left the store, the sale is final. Technically, FS or BB doesn't have to match you a couple of days or weeks later as you AGREED to pay the price at the time of purchase."

Of course they have to do it. As soon as they advertise it on a giant sign, their website and any any where else its part of the deal. There are a number of cases with the competiton bureau being involved in advertised price match policies not being followed on their website(don't name companies involved when they get the company to comply)

The better business bureau is useless. They do nothing. People toss that threat around in the store all the time. They have ZERO recourse. It's a company policy and we do try to stand up against it. If we really wanted to get into the nitty gritty abuot the sign and the details we can talk about how the product has to be in stock at the store selling it cheaper and a million other things. but we don't, casue people would cry even more.

You're also mistaken about your last statement. If you look up any company on the BBB even FS the status is always there. Will show complaints and what happened. It's not a reward that if they comply the reord is expunged. I've filed complaints with the BBB and they do NOTHING.

Bottom line is regardless if we have to or don't, we do advertise it and we do follow through with it. As long as it's within the policies. People try to abuse this all the time which is likely why sometimes people are defensive about it.

[kcorscadden]

"As for PM's, really once you have left the store, the sale is final. Technically, FS or BB doesn't have to match you a couple of days or weeks later as you AGREED to pay the price at the time of purchase."

Of course they have to do it. As soon as they advertise it on a giant sign, their website and any any where else its part of the deal. There are a number of cases with the competiton bureau being involved in advertised price match policies not being followed on their website(don't name companies involved when they get the company to comply)

Please tell me where it says by Canadian Law that a company must honor a PM?

The bottom line is that no law exists, therefore FS or BB don't have to PM you before or after purchase. As I said before, they only do it because they don't want to risk losing you as a customer over a few dollars. That is the only reason why they do it.

The advertisement on that giant sign is the sign for FS or BB. It has nothing to do with the Bureau. The bureau can not tell a company that they HAVE TOO PM.

[zoro69]

Of course there is no law that anyone has to offer a pm. There IS a law that you can't advertise things and not honour them. eg, look up what happened to forzani wrt to deceptive marketing practices section of the competion act, or go through the list of cases year by year and find the refrences to pm policies.

i've said nothing about the "BBB" so have no idea where that comes from.

[kcorscadden]

Of course there is no law that anyone has to offer a pm. There IS a law that you can't advertise things and not honour them.

I understand that !!! What I am saying is that FS and BB are the ones who came up with that policy, therefore they can choose to honor it if they want too.

PM is not really advertising, it's a company policy. When you look at a FS flyer, you see a bunch of products that have prices associated with them. By law they have to sell the product at that price or the customer negotiates a better price. A PM has nothing to do with advertising.

[zoro69]

sigh...

kids

[kcorscadden]

sigh...

kids

LOL

You are aware that there is a lot of fine print in the PM policy right? All it says on that giant sign is that FS or BB will match any price, and that's probably the only thing that you see.

What you have probably missed is what is called FINE PRINT. It is a bunch of useless words that seems to take forever to read that states the rules of this specific policy. It is in small text usually at the bottom of a sign or flyer stating that the company can choose to approve or deny a PM. If it is not worth it to the company, they have a choice to deny you that PM. Now they will probably lose you as a customer as you will go back to the competition and buy it at their price, but if it isn't worth it, they then can deny you if they choose too.

[nighthawk26]

Of course there is no law that anyone has to offer a pm. There IS a law that you can't advertise things and not honour them. eg, look up what happened to forzani wrt to deceptive marketing practices section of the competion act, or go through the list of cases year by year and find the refrences to pm policies.

i've said nothing about the "BBB" so have no idea where that comes from.

true... you did say competition bureau.

[stevethewheel]

You do know that Zellers had to change it's slogan:

"Where the lowest price is the law.....everyday"

After Wal-Mart opened up and offered a few pennies less on many items....everyday.

[nighthawk26]

You do know that Zellers had to change it's slogan:

"Where the lowest price is the law.....everyday"

After Wal-Mart opened up and offered a few pennies less on many items....everyday.

Didn't really pay any attention to that. Interesting!

[tjuzer]

So BBB is crap?

[TheGame]

so... what's the cost to fs for the envision 32" lcd that's being talked about a lot in the hot deals forum... it was on sale recently for $769

[jee_mun001]

1. I am planning on buying a LG 42" Widescreen LCD HDTV (42LC2D model). Futureshop is having a sale on right now: $1799.99, originally $2299.99 (save $500), but the sale ends December 24th. My question is should I buy it before the 24th or wait until boxing day? Would I save more money if I by it during boxing day?

2. Should I buy an extended warranty for it?

[kcorscadden]

You do know that Zellers had to change it's slogan:

"Where the lowest price is the law.....everyday"

After Wal-Mart opened up and offered a few pennies less on many items....everyday.

All that is though is a marketing tactic. The fact that you associated that slogan with Zellers means that their strategy or tactic worked with you.

[stevethewheel]

All that is though is a marketing tactic. The fact that you associated that slogan with Zellers means that their strategy or tactic worked with you.

Actually....No. Not in this case.

I have a friend who is a store manager and told me about having to take down all the signs in the store...it was a very big deal. Sorry I can't talk more about it. Let's just say it was driven by truth in advertising.

Even marketing tactics have to conform to laws and standards. I put that story in because the topic was turning to competition laws and the BBB and whatnot.

[nighthawk26]

1. I am planning on buying a LG 42" Widescreen LCD HDTV (42LC2D model). Futureshop is having a sale on right now: $1799.99, originally $2299.99 (save $500), but the sale ends December 24th. My question is should I buy it before the 24th or wait until boxing day? Would I save more money if I by it during boxing day?

2. Should I buy an extended warranty for it?

It's a win win for you. Buy it now, and if it goes on sale Price protet it after the fact. I doubt it will be a door crasher as there aren't a ton in my warehouse. That being the case I'm sure we will sell out and you may not get one. However, I'm thinking after xmas this TV wil haev a 1999.99 permanent price point so keep an eye after you buy it cause the price may drop a little more.

As for the warranty, it's a touchy subject in this place and i'm not getting into it anymore. Really it's your call. All I can say is listen to what the sales rep has to say to you. You're a big boy, think it throguh and go with yout gut. Thats the best answer I can give you!

[nighthawk26]

so... what's the cost to fs for the envision 32" lcd that's being talked about a lot in the hot deals forum... it was on sale recently for $769

All these TV's are loss leaders. We make virtually nothing ot close to it. These are the TV's however that will certainly be the boxing day specials. Like last yearas digimate. Now on these brands I will take a stace. Don't buy the warranty and have fun. With the digimates and norcent, they aer OCE for us which means over the counter exchange becasue the vendor can't provide us with servicing which means after the 1 year good luck geting service. I can't count how many digimates and Viore products I'ev swapped out for brand new TV's for people. Now granted in the first year you're getting a nwe TV anyways, but some idiots I did 2 or 3 exchanges for the same POS before they say hmm, maybe I'll get something different. At that point you pay the price difference but also by that point you see why you're paying a price difference. If the manufacturer has OCE our PSP does the same which means no repairs, no sending it out, you get a new TV over a 4 year period. But again, your call!

[stevethewheel]

All these TV's are loss leaders. We make virtually nothing ot close to it. These are the TV's however that will certainly be the boxing day specials. Like last yearas digimate. Now on these brands I will take a stace. Don't buy the warranty and have fun. With the digimates and norcent, they aer OCE for us which means over the counter exchange becasue the vendor can't provide us with servicing which means after the 1 year good luck geting service. I can't count how many digimates and Viore products I'ev swapped out for brand new TV's for people. Now granted in the first year you're getting a nwe TV anyways, but some idiots I did 2 or 3 exchanges for the same POS before they say hmm, maybe I'll get something different. At that point you pay the price difference but also by that point you see why you're paying a price difference. If the manufacturer has OCE our PSP does the same which means no repairs, no sending it out, you get a new TV over a 4 year period. But again, your call!

Great advice.

[siwong44]

Can I return for in store credit for an un opened boxed item?
I received as a gift. But never got a receipt or gift receipt.

[cipher]

I was looking at buying a 46" LCD TV (Sony or LG). Is it better to wait until the end of January (rumors of price drops) or buy it during Boxing day?

[Fox2k]

I understand that !!! What I am saying is that FS and BB are the ones who came up with that policy, therefore they can choose to honor it if they want too.


am I the only one who caught the contradiction in this post? :confused:

[SpYcho]

What I am saying is that FS and BB are the ones who came up with that policy, therefore they can choose to honor it if they want too.

Does seem contradicting, doesn't it? ;)

Of course, they have the power to CHANGE their policies, but that's a different story.

[Traian2003]

When it comes to price matching, can i price get a larger quantity.

Okay this is the story, I bought 10 product X from Staples for 9.95$, then I went to FutureShop and they had it for 69.95$. I told them to PM it, which they did so I got it for 4$ something, but besides the point. Now I told them that I would like to purchase 20 Xs. They said, they would only PM one X. I even told them to drop the 10%, and just sell them for 9.95$. They refused. Does PMing only allow you to purchase one unit, or more at the price..


Hmmm, ok stumped for the frist time. Not sure on that. I will check it out and let you know. Don't see why not at the moment but perhaps there is some strange reason why.

Did you get that info?

[scratchieepants]

I have a bit of a situation. Before calling a customer service I would like your insight on this:

I tried to get FS to pricematch a BB deal on a 46" Samsung.

The sales rep at first said ok buddy no problem, but can you come by our warehouse tomorrow to pick it up?

Then I said, well I have no problem with picking one up NOW (Weston rd Toronto location) since the website said that there was stock... and that I could fit TWO of them in a Trailblazer let alone one.

Then he didn't want to PM and offer financing, which doesn't appear to be a rule or exclusion anywhere (that's why FS / Wells Fargo charges the admin fee).

Later along in the conversation he offered to BETTER the BB price of $2800, but I'd have to pay $2500 + $500 in PSP and still NO financing (well sorta, I had to pay in 3 months).

Finally he brought in the department manager (granted I was not very angry or pushy, I'm actually very easy to deal with when I have the intention of purchasing something). And they were willing to offer me $2800 (which is the incorrect price anyway since the PM policy is PM + 10% off of the difference, so it should have been reduced another $30 or so) + $500, +$60 admin fee and I'll have one year to pay.

Anyhow, I really want to refund the PSP and want to know if that's possible. And I am really pissed off over their attempt at the initial run around. And this BS "buy our PSP or no financing" thing was an additional nuisance too.

So what are my 'rights', what can be done, or am I just stuck? The greedy side of me wishes that I can get the $2500 price, refunded PSP, and 1 year to pay.

[britney69]

Question regarding your RocketFish HDMI cable. I bought an LCD TV from FS a couple of months ago, got the HD-PVR along with it and the salesguy was nice enough to throw in a $69 RocketFish HDMI cable (which I know now is considered a cheap cable). Through your experience, is it possible that my PQ can actually be significantly better than what it is right now upon an HDMI cable upgrade? Is any other HDMI cable better than the RocketFish?

[scratchieepants]

For short distances (less than 12 feet, perhaps even longer). There's no difference, at least not one worth paying for.

And that cable is less than $10 at cost, so that's why they threw it in and claimed to be helping you out.

[britney69]

Yeah, the cable that he threw in is around 4-6 feet actually, so I don't think it's a length issue that I am aware of when it comes to HDMI cables. My concern is is that when I'm watching regular cable, the best picture is when I'm sitting directly in front of the TV. Picture will actually tend to cloud on any other viewing angle. I'm just wondering if I can actually blame the cheap cable in this case or is it maybe my TV?

[scratchieepants]

I think the viewing angle thing should be related to LCD TV technology more than the cable.

Strange that you only notice it when watching SDTV. DVD's, HD, DVD, etc look fine at the same angles?

That's strange indeed!

HDMI cables, since they're transmitting a digital signal, cable quality obviously matters, but it's such an insignificant difference between the "best" and "worst" hdmi cable. Except when long distances are involved.

Back to your problem though, I am sure FS will let you exchange it for another cable, and if the problem persists, it's probably the TV itself. But once again, strange that your viewing angle problem is only present with regular cable broadcasts :|

If tech support and futureshop can't help you out, try this online forum:

http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/index.php

[rfdrfd]

Whew, what a long thread, can't believe I read it all. Good knowledge, thanks to the OP.

To me, Futureshop screwed itself up to be treated in this way. When I go into FS, a few yrs back, I feel like I must act like I'm going into a car dealership. All the sales are going to attack me like sharks, make up stuff to make the product sound better than it is, use fake phrases like "This is the best out there", "everything is covered", etc.

So, customers have grown to realize, we are going into battle everytime we step into a FS.

A few years before, when I was more naive, I bought a returned Sony projector. I agreed to the warranty, because that sales told me almost everything under the sky was covered, I had my hesitations, esp. about the bulb life, but I bought it still because it was cheaper (returned) and bulb was covered for 4 yrs.

Well, needless to say, the warranty little piece of useless paper says nothing about bulb being covered. Fine print says anything consumable cannot be covered (I'm thinking bulb). Then I wished I asked them to put things in writing before i walked out the door. I'm much smarter now.

So, FS staff, if you feel you are being treated badly by customers, that is because FS itself went into these money grabbing, saving schemes before that made a bad name for themselves.

Just like how GM, Ford, etc. can't CONVINCE ppl that their cars HAVE quality. They screwed themselves up way back when they didn't follow the Total Quality Concept.

Ya, I feel bad for some of the nice FS guys. Maybe the OP can list out some names of his colleages that are genuine.

I bet all the RFDers will go to those guys and be very professional and polite about it. Give the good FS staff lots of business.

[britney69]

I think the viewing angle thing should be related to LCD TV technology more than the cable.

Strange that you only notice it when watching SDTV. DVD's, HD, DVD, etc look fine at the same angles?

Not to change the initial subject of this thread, but I should clarify that my viewing angle issue is only when watching cable (hooked via HDMI) SD/HDTV whatever. I do not have this viewing angle problem watching DVDs (via component) or my XBOX 360 (via component). Thus making my speculation of the problem lying in the HDMI cable. However, cable signal, or lack of would also be another safe assumption.

[nighthawk26]

To someone who said they needed a reply ASAP I will get to it later tonight. (You will have it for tomorrow). You gotta understand how busy I am this time of year. My fiance is KILLING me right now. Gotta get stuff done on the day off!

[kcorscadden]

Actually....No. Not in this case.

I have a friend who is a store manager and told me about having to take down all the signs in the store...it was a very big deal. Sorry I can't talk more about it. Let's just say it was driven by truth in advertising.

Even marketing tactics have to conform to laws and standards. I put that story in because the topic was turning to competition laws and the BBB and whatnot.

Well if that is true, than Zellers should technically have lower prices than Wal-Mart based on every product they sell. Yes a few products that Zellers sells is cheaper than Wal-Mart, but not all.

"Where the lowest price is the law" This indicates that they will have the lowest price of anyone else, which we already know is wrong.

[kcorscadden]

am I the only one who caught the contradiction in this post? :confused:


Does seem contradicting, doesn't it? ;)

Of course, they have the power to CHANGE their policies, but that's a different story.

How is this contradicting at all? That is what fine print is for. It gives the ability for a company to opt out of a certain policy if they choose too.

[atb1o1]

Question on haggling/negotiating. If I were to go and purchase a 40" HDTV that is for example $3000. What is the absolute best price I can negotiate down to? 5%, 10%? This is with just buying the TV and no to warranty and accessories.. (well maybe 1 component cable)..

If the TV is already on sale, is it still possible to ask for a better discount or the prices is absolute firm?

[stevethewheel]

Well if that is true, than Zellers should technically have lower prices than Wal-Mart based on every product they sell. Yes a few products that Zellers sells is cheaper than Wal-Mart, but not all.

"Where the lowest price is the law" This indicates that they will have the lowest price of anyone else, which we already know is wrong.


Umm. Yes. Before Wal-Mart came along it wasn't a problem. Maybe you are young enough that you don't remember a Canada without Wal-Mart?

[kcorscadden]

Umm. Yes. Before Wal-Mart came along it wasn't a problem. Maybe you are young enough that you don't remember a Canada without Wal-Mart?

I remember life before Wal-Mart, there was K-Mart that was bought out by Wal-Mart.

That Zellers slogan was true before Wal-Mart came around. Today that slogan is wrong and outdated as they clearly don't have the lowest prices any more.

[tlamm]

Question on haggling/negotiating. If I were to go and purchase a 40" HDTV that is for example $3000. What is the absolute best price I can negotiate down to? 5%, 10%? This is with just buying the TV and no to warranty and accessories.. (well maybe 1 component cable)..

If the TV is already on sale, is it still possible to ask for a better discount or the prices is absolute firm?

Always room to negotiate. They still make a profit on sales items.

You can always take the sale price elsewhere and get a different store to give you a better price as well.

I purchased a sale priced TV at FS ($2900 sale price) last year for $2300. And I did not buy anything extra.

[tlamm]

I remember life before Wal-Mart, there was K-Mart that was bought out by Wal-Mart.

That Zellers slogan was true before Wal-Mart came around. Today that slogan is wrong and outdated as they clearly don't have the lowest prices any more.

Kinda funny, but I actually prefer Zellers. They will match Walmarts price, and you dont have to wait in the lineups.

I also find Zellers normal day to day prices to be in line with walmart. Its really not worth the hassle to save 2 cents on an item.

[importpsycho]

will FS take back my unopened PS3 with receipt? :cry:
it's past 30 day

[nighthawk26]

Can I return for in store credit for an un opened boxed item?
I received as a gift. But never got a receipt or gift receipt.

This is case by case... typically they will issue you a store credit (WILL NEVER EXPIRE), but they will offer it at the lowest selling price it has sold for in the last little while. 30 days I believe. No different than Candian Tire, and several other places casue they dont' know what it sold for!

[nighthawk26]

I have a bit of a situation. Before calling a customer service I would like your insight on this:

I tried to get FS to pricematch a BB deal on a 46" Samsung.

The sales rep at first said ok buddy no problem, but can you come by our warehouse tomorrow to pick it up?

Then I said, well I have no problem with picking one up NOW (Weston rd Toronto location) since the website said that there was stock... and that I could fit TWO of them in a Trailblazer let alone one.

Then he didn't want to PM and offer financing, which doesn't appear to be a rule or exclusion anywhere (that's why FS / Wells Fargo charges the admin fee).

Later along in the conversation he offered to BETTER the BB price of $2800, but I'd have to pay $2500 + $500 in PSP and still NO financing (well sorta, I had to pay in 3 months).

Finally he brought in the department manager (granted I was not very angry or pushy, I'm actually very easy to deal with when I have the intention of purchasing something). And they were willing to offer me $2800 (which is the incorrect price anyway since the PM policy is PM + 10% off of the difference, so it should have been reduced another $30 or so) + $500, +$60 admin fee and I'll have one year to pay.

Anyhow, I really want to refund the PSP and want to know if that's possible. And I am really pissed off over their attempt at the initial run around. And this BS "buy our PSP or no financing" thing was an additional nuisance too.

So what are my 'rights', what can be done, or am I just stuck? The greedy side of me wishes that I can get the $2500 price, refunded PSP, and 1 year to pay.


asked and answered... check your PM's!

[nighthawk26]

I was looking at buying a 46" LCD TV (Sony or LG). Is it better to wait until the end of January (rumors of price drops) or buy it during Boxing day?

answered essentially in more than a few posts. Botom line.. buy it now, you have a 30 day. Will take you till 3rd week of January. If i hear anything firm about price drops I will let you know becaue when that happens costs drop too so our margins stay the same. No reason for me NOT to tell you.

[nighthawk26]

Question regarding your RocketFish HDMI cable. I bought an LCD TV from FS a couple of months ago, got the HD-PVR along with it and the salesguy was nice enough to throw in a $69 RocketFish HDMI cable (which I know now is considered a cheap cable). Through your experience, is it possible that my PQ can actually be significantly better than what it is right now upon an HDMI cable upgrade? Is any other HDMI cable better than the RocketFish?

It is better, but marginally. I wouldn't go out and buy a whole new one. Just be carful plugging and unplugging that thing. They have been known to break at the ends. However, you could always try out a monster cable and see if you see the difference and if not bring it back!!

[nighthawk26]

For short distances (less than 12 feet, perhaps even longer). There's no difference, at least not one worth paying for.

And that cable is less than $10 at cost, so that's why they threw it in and claimed to be helping you out.

see comments like this I HATE. Why does our cost have anything to do with helping out or not? How did it not help him? He doesn't work there. HIS cost is $70 bucks. And thats what he saved!

[nighthawk26]

Whew, what a long thread, can't believe I read it all. Good knowledge, thanks to the OP.

To me, Futureshop screwed itself up to be treated in this way. When I go into FS, a few yrs back, I feel like I must act like I'm going into a car dealership. All the sales are going to attack me like sharks, make up stuff to make the product sound better than it is, use fake phrases like "This is the best out there", "everything is covered", etc.

So, customers have grown to realize, we are going into battle everytime we step into a FS.

A few years before, when I was more naive, I bought a returned Sony projector. I agreed to the warranty, because that sales told me almost everything under the sky was covered, I had my hesitations, esp. about the bulb life, but I bought it still because it was cheaper (returned) and bulb was covered for 4 yrs.

Well, needless to say, the warranty little piece of useless paper says nothing about bulb being covered. Fine print says anything consumable cannot be covered (I'm thinking bulb). Then I wished I asked them to put things in writing before i walked out the door. I'm much smarter now.

So, FS staff, if you feel you are being treated badly by customers, that is because FS itself went into these money grabbing, saving schemes before that made a bad name for themselves.

Just like how GM, Ford, etc. can't CONVINCE ppl that their cars HAVE quality. They screwed themselves up way back when they didn't follow the Total Quality Concept.

Ya, I feel bad for some of the nice FS guys. Maybe the OP can list out some names of his colleages that are genuine.

I bet all the RFDers will go to those guys and be very professional and polite about it. Give the good FS staff lots of business.

I would certainly provide names for anyone if they are going to stores I know people in. Feel free to mention where you are and what store you want to go to and I'll let you know. I've worked in 4 stores over the 8 years and been in sales and management. This has allowed me to get to know a lot of people. I'm also in the top 1% of the company so they have an annual trip for all those in the top 10% of their departments so I've met lots of some of the best people across the country.

[nighthawk26]

Yeah, the cable that he threw in is around 4-6 feet actually, so I don't think it's a length issue that I am aware of when it comes to HDMI cables. My concern is is that when I'm watching regular cable, the best picture is when I'm sitting directly in front of the TV. Picture will actually tend to cloud on any other viewing angle. I'm just wondering if I can actually blame the cheap cable in this case or is it maybe my TV?

TV, not the cable. The TV is the culprit. Some are better than others. And some are worse on NON HD particularly. The Sharps are pretty bad. Also the LG will haev a bluish green tinge on angles. Lots of variables and the cable is minor if not insignificant. The cable however will play a role in the colour, and sharpness and potentiall noise. Especially on any analoge cable and that includes Component. HDMI is the ONLY cable I will accept the argument of possibly going cheaper.

[nighthawk26]

LOL i did this with my norcent 42" plasma last month. OCE rocks. paid $550 more for the 40" samsung LCD. people just like me end up falling for the low price. Quality seems to fall second(lucky for me it was not too late, 2 more months and i would have been royally screwed). but hopefully now it will be okay with this new tv/brand.

If you had PSP that OCE carries for the 4 years so you know!

[nighthawk26]

Not to change the initial subject of this thread, but I should clarify that my viewing angle issue is only when watching cable (hooked via HDMI) SD/HDTV whatever. I do not have this viewing angle problem watching DVDs (via component) or my XBOX 360 (via component). Thus making my speculation of the problem lying in the HDMI cable. However, cable signal, or lack of would also be another safe assumption.

Interesting. Which box is running your HDMI? Is it from the rogers fre for a while? If it is, Scientific Atlanta could not keep up with demand for these boxes so rogers outsourced another company (Primestar, or SOMETHING to that effect). That box is COMPLETE GARBAGE. DIdn't see it ill I went to a customers house who was comaplining abuot the picture and on the phone it made NO sense casue he had great stuff and good cables. I got him switched to a SA box and it was perfect.

[nighthawk26]

Question on haggling/negotiating. If I were to go and purchase a 40" HDTV that is for example $3000. What is the absolute best price I can negotiate down to? 5%, 10%? This is with just buying the TV and no to warranty and accessories.. (well maybe 1 component cable)..

If the TV is already on sale, is it still possible to ask for a better discount or the prices is absolute firm?

With me... as long as it's a regular price I have no problem giving you 7% off. BUT I'm a salesperson. You're not gonna get a price outa me till I've gone over cables, PSP, surround sound and everything else that may pertain to you. Fidn whats right for you product wise, THEN talk price. As for working a price on an already sale item it's case by case. Look at it from a business perspective. If we are already $200 cheaper than ANYWHERE else. Why would we take MORE OFF? If it said "X" (your name) Shop on the store front would you give more off? THat being said, the more you are buying the more margin is going into the sale so the more room that may be there for additional discount. Remember, at the end of the day we all haev a boss to answer too including the dept. manager to the sotre manager, and the store manager to the district manager.

[nighthawk26]

will FS take back my unopened PS3 with receipt? :cry:
it's past 30 day

Interesting. Normally no, BUT that one product it's possible. It will sell in 30 seconds. However eevn if they didn't how can you not find a buyer for that, epecially at retail price. You should have ZERO problems.

[jonkaho]

when you do a PM, why do some employees tell you "why don't buy it from there then". what is the point of having a PM policy if you are not going to match the store!!

[Fimo]

when you do a PM, why do some employees tell you "why don't buy it from there then". what is the point of having a PM policy if you are not going to match the store!!

Too add to that question if I may, why do they always seem to "fight" to PM? Not all reps but most, will actually go out of the way to find someway of not allowing the PM. Some excuses I have heard are fine i.e. below my cost, however some are utterly stupid i.e. not the same package when it really is, as with the current Xbox 360 Holiday Bundle.

I usually don't argue if a Rep doesn't accept the PM request I just take my business elsewhere, but it is frustrating because afterall it is FS policy to PM, a policy I thought was supposed to attract more customers and thus more sales.

I'd like to know what the PM success rates are, just out of curiosity.

I don't mean to sound as it I am attacking you if it sounds that way, but thanks for taking the time to inform us on the way FS operates.

[abu_sme]

Is it worth it to get a warranty on an Xbox 360? (I'm thinking yes)

[Kinki]

To protect GM (gross margin). BB/FS are ranked daily, monthly and yearly. They are also ranked by dept, store, district, region, national.

As part of FS/BB daily opening & closing meeting, the stats are read out. Imagine the pressure on the supervisor and the ppl under him/her.


when you do a PM, why do some employees tell you "why don't buy it from there then". what is the point of having a PM policy if you are not going to match the store!!

[Talamasca]

there was K-Mart that was bought out by Wal-Mart.

It was Woolco, not K-Mart.

To the OP, do you know which FS stores in Canada are among the top-ranked? Do you know how the Mississauga Heartland store ranks? That's the one nearest my home and it's always packed in there (and the entire staff look like they all have the same last name too).

[nighthawk26]

when you do a PM, why do some employees tell you "why don't buy it from there then". what is the point of having a PM policy if you are not going to match the store!!

if they said that it's casue he doesn't believe your price. If you had a flyer or proff that comment is stupid. But we have a phrase there "buyers are liars". You think we lie and all sorts of things, believe me, the feeling is mutual. People come in with off the wall and clearly BS prices all the time. When you say no, they are like, ok well how about this price. All the time I wonder in my head as I'm chuckling inside, if you can get it at that price somewhere else why are you even talking to me!? NOW if you have a legitimate price beat, thats just a stupid thing for them to say. Just know ALL day EVERY day people lie about pricing!

[nighthawk26]

Is it worth it to get a warranty on an Xbox 360? (I'm thinking yes)

I have answered thihan a few times in this thread. Read reviews on the console. 90 day warranty from Sony. You tell me.

[nighthawk26]

Too add to that question if I may, why do they always seem to "fight" to PM? Not all reps but most, will actually go out of the way to find someway of not allowing the PM. Some excuses I have heard are fine i.e. below my cost, however some are utterly stupid i.e. not the same package when it really is, as with the current Xbox 360 Holiday Bundle.

I usually don't argue if a Rep doesn't accept the PM request I just take my business elsewhere, but it is frustrating because afterall it is FS policy to PM, a policy I thought was supposed to attract more customers and thus more sales.

I'd like to know what the PM success rates are, just out of curiosity.

I don't mean to sound as it I am attacking you if it sounds that way, but thanks for taking the time to inform us on the way FS operates.

So many possible reasons. Power trip maybe? Perhaps a customer recently tried to BS him so he's defensive, perhaps it is in fact a different package in some way, not a legitimate reseller of the product, not a canadian product, all sorts of things. Or perhaps he's just an ass. Bottom line is a PM should not be difficult and the "success rate" as mentioned is very good. Be reasonable, understand what is being said to you. People seem to freak out as soon as they hear no, not to even listen to things like, well they are a 3rd party vendor and it's only got a warranty through them, or in the states. We don't PM that. FOR EXAMPLE. Costco. Most thigns in there we should not haev to PM under our policy but we do. They are an authorized seller of VERY little. The warranty is through them.

[nighthawk26]

It was Woolco, not K-Mart.

To the OP, do you know which FS stores in Canada are among the top-ranked? Do you know how the Mississauga Heartland store ranks? That's the one nearest my home and it's always packed in there (and the entire staff look like they all have the same last name too).

Hahah.. yeah I hear ya.

Yes I know all the rankings for all the stores in the company of course. Heartland is likely the biggest store and highest ranked. Broadway in the US is up there always as well. Actually all are lies, the WEB STORE, Futureshop.ca is the highest ranked store!

[nighthawk26]

FUTURESHOP.CA runs 4.1% PSP

Just came to me after the above post. All of you who say salespeople are pushy and we lie about PSP etc. Take this into consideration. The Web Store, which is comprised of a BUTTON that asks if you want PSP on average runs over 4%. Typically a store running at about 8% is doing very well. So thats a 4% without people "pressuring" and "lying", just people making their own decisions. Just some food for thought!

[jonkaho]

if they said that it's casue he doesn't believe your price. If you had a flyer or proff that comment is stupid. But we have a phrase there "buyers are liars". You think we lie and all sorts of things, believe me, the feeling is mutual. People come in with off the wall and clearly BS prices all the time. When you say no, they are like, ok well how about this price. All the time I wonder in my head as I'm chuckling inside, if you can get it at that price somewhere else why are you even talking to me!? NOW if you have a legitimate price beat, thats just a stupid thing for them to say. Just know ALL day EVERY day people lie about pricing!


the FS employee even phoned to confirmed the price and stock. then the sales manager makes up some crap and tells me they can't do the price match because it is probally a one day sale. i phoned and complained to the head office to tell them what happened. a day later, the General Manager phones me back and tells me that the guy should have said to me "why don't buy it from there then". The GM told me to come back to the store to see him, and he will do the PM for me!

[nighthawk26]

the FS employee even phoned to confirmed the price and stock. then the sales manager makes up some crap and tells me they can't do the price match because it is probally a one day sale. i phoned and complained to the head office to tell them what happened. a day later, the General Manager phones me back and tells me that the guy should have said to me "why don't buy it from there then".

If that happened like that, it's horse ****. Call head office back and let them know that the MANAGER said that to you. I can assur eyouwhen youcall head office ALL they do is forward your compalint back to the manager saying to deal with it. If he does what he did and you all back and tell them again I'm sure the letter back to the manager the second time is a little mroe aggresive. It's jackasses like that that give FS a bad name. I'd be suprised if it was even the manager. Like I said. Get in touch with head office again. As long as there is stock, it does not matter if its a 1 day sale or an hour sale!! I hate that as much as you do, believe me!

[jonkaho]

sorry some mistakes with my post!


the FS employee even phoned to confirmed the price and stock. then the sales manager makes up some crap and tells me they can't do the price match because it is probally a one day sale. i phoned and complained to the head office to tell them what happened. a day later, the General Manager phones me back and tells me that the guy shouldn't have said that to me "why don't buy it from there then". The GM told me to come back to the store to see him, and he will do the PM for me!

[nighthawk26]

sorry some mistakes with my post!


the FS employee even phoned to confirmed the price and stock. then the sales manager makes up some crap and tells me they can't do the price match because it is probally a one day sale. i phoned and complained to the head office to tell them what happened. a day later, the General Manager phones me back and tells me that the guy shouldn't have said that to me "why don't buy it from there then". The GM told me to come back to the store to see him, and he will do the PM for me!

HAHA... ok that mistake changes the whole story! :) Glad to hear thats what happened. Thats how a scenario like that shuo be played out. And FYI, that associate likely got written up for that!

[TLO]

OK, I hope you can clear my confusion here..:confused:
Last week, Dell was having a sales on the Creative Lab Zen Vision W for $299. Unfortunately, I did not know this until two days after the sales. Anyway, I went to FS during the weekend and look for one. I was quoted the tag price of $359, so I brought up about this sales Dell was doing a few days ago. I told the sale person that I understand the sales has already ended but can he do a discount on it. I even told him that he does not have to price match the sales but I am willing to take it for $329. The answer was no...:confused:
Hmm..now I was confused, I thought they were always willing to work on the pricing in order to make a sale. One thing for sure, I would never believe $329 is under the cost; selling at $329, FS is just making $30 less IMO.

[importpsycho]

Interesting. Normally no, BUT that one product it's possible. It will sell in 30 seconds. However eevn if they didn't how can you not find a buyer for that, epecially at retail price. You should have ZERO problems.

I just looked at my receipt and it says return/exchange period is till January 8th :D looks like they have special extended return policy for holiday

it's hard to sell even at retail price :lol:

[nighthawk26]

OK, I hope you can clear my confusion here..:confused:
Last week, Dell was having a sales on the Creative Lab Zen Vision W for $299. Unfortunately, I did not know this until two days after the sales. Anyway, I went to FS during the weekend and look for one. I was quoted the tag price of $359, so I brought up about this sales Dell was doing a few days ago. I told the sale person that I understand the sales has already ended but can he do a discount on it. I even told him that he does not have to price match the sales but I am willing to take it for $329. The answer was no...:confused:
Hmm..now I was confused, I thought they were always willing to work on the pricing in order to make a sale. One thing for sure, I would never believe $329 is under the cost; selling at $329, FS is just making $30 less IMO.


Of course it's not under cost. However, we guarantee the lowest price in Canada. I've mentioned it before, if we are already the cheapest, why woudl we take mroe off of it? As fo rthe product iteslf I can't comemnt I don't work in that department but the principle remains the same. I THINK that product is a 14 day re: and PM, however maybe it's 13. Check around over the holiday for a better price, I'm sure you'll fined it at either FS or BB, or somewhere else. Print it off, take it in and get the money and difference back.

[nighthawk26]

I just looked at my receipt and it says return/exchange period is till January 8th :D looks like they have special extended return policy for holiday

it's hard to sell even at retail price :lol:

Yes, as of Noveember 7th, all returns were good till January 8th. As of Dec. 8th, obviously the 30 days kicks back. Believe me we do everythign we can to give fair pricing.

[gleberental]

i saw LG 20" LCD ED TV (20LC1RB) on the FS site listed for $399 (vs. $599 @ BB).
...woo hoo! i thought, this'll be the thing for my GF who keeps talking about how she wants one to de-clutter... but woe is me, it shows OOS online & in my local stores in the Ottawa area... 2 good 2 b true

so, i thought maybe i'd check out a B&M location, just in case. still OOS, but there was a floor model. i asked if i could buy the floor model, but they said no, because 500 more are on the way to FS as a whole.

OK, so i got a raincheck for it. but i'm dubious about whether they'll get here before xmas... i'm guessing NOT... rather, they'll be in for Boxing Day.

any thoughts about my odds on this one?
also, any opinions about this product?

cheers,
michael

[direct-x]

I assume FS will not price protect boxing day prices on items purchased before hand?

[nighthawk26]

i saw LG 20" LCD ED TV (20LC1RB) on the FS site listed for $399 (vs. $599 @ BB).
...woo hoo! i thought, this'll be the thing for my GF who keeps talking about how she wants one to de-clutter... but woe is me, it shows OOS online & in my local stores in the Ottawa area... 2 good 2 b true

so, i thought maybe i'd check out a B&M location, just in case. still OOS, but there was a floor model. i asked if i could buy the floor model, but they said no, because 500 more are on the way to FS as a whole.

OK, so i got a raincheck for it. but i'm dubious about whether they'll get here before xmas... i'm guessing NOT... rather, they'll be in for Boxing Day.

any thoughts about my odds on this one?
also, any opinions about this product?


cheers,
michael

Well stock situations are sticky this time of year for obvious reasons and that was a great price. A RC is only good for 30 days. Does NOT guarantee you stock at all as an FYI. Who knows if it will be in befor Christmas, but also know it won't hold stock for you either. NO one is going to call you when it's in so you gotta keep on it. Is it avail. online?

[nighthawk26]

I assume FS will not price protect boxing day prices on items purchased before hand?

The desk will not even be open for returns for the first few days of boxing week so no. And you can't PP door crashers or limited stock. Only way you could get around that as another psoter mentioned was if you happen to get your hands on the limited stock (item you already bought) then returned it later that or next week with the origional receipt from the first one you bought at the higher price.

[D.NGUYEN]

i saw LG 20" LCD ED TV (20LC1RB) on the FS site listed for $399 (vs. $599 @ BB).
...woo hoo! i thought, this'll be the thing for my GF who keeps talking about how she wants one to de-clutter... but woe is me, it shows OOS online & in my local stores in the Ottawa area... 2 good 2 b true

so, i thought maybe i'd check out a B&M location, just in case. still OOS, but there was a floor model. i asked if i could buy the floor model, but they said no, because 500 more are on the way to FS as a whole.

OK, so i got a raincheck for it. but i'm dubious about whether they'll get here before xmas... i'm guessing NOT... rather, they'll be in for Boxing Day.

any thoughts about my odds on this one?
also, any opinions about this product?

cheers,
michael


During Christmas time, we get trucks quite often, it really is a hit and miss. Just call before you come in or perhaps, if you see a similar item, ask for the department manager to see if he/she can help you out on discounting the other item. However, head office doesn't really let us know when the product is coming from the wearhouse to the store.

By the way, I also work for FS and I guess I'll start posting answers too. most of what was answered pretty much happens in my store too.

[lh0628]

1. Just curious how are pays calculated for someone commision-bases? Is it quite a complicated system? Is there base salaries at all?

2. Is it true that now you can only apply for a position through the website?
I tried to apply online and I was turned down. I have a B.sc in computer science 4 years, has worked various jobs related to customer service and computer hardware/software during school, and has worked for a regional college as helpdesk person after graduation and now a programmer analyst for 3 years.

I applied because I wanted a partime job, few nights/weekends a week for some extra pay. I'm not complaining here, just curious as to what FS is looking for in a potential sales employee.

[bestjsg]

my question is how can you work there for 8 years....I worked at FS 8 years ago in computers....I left because some head hunters came into the store and recruited me.....:) ... I can't stand the fact that I worked so hard and made so little money....I got offered a base salary that equal to my entire base + commisssion at FS ...so I left although I was even on the MIT program but then I figured even if I became a manager there I would be making peanuts anyways...

[Kweli]

Hey Night, great post...

I had a question about LCD's

Im looking to get a 32-37" Widescreen with 1080P..
Since your around them alot, have you seen a sharp decline in price yet, if not, when do you expect them to start coming down??

What can you say about some of the brands out there?
Soyo
WestingWhite House
Toshiba
Sony
Prima
Acer
Viewsonic/Samsung
(Cant think of others, but feel free to add your own)

[Tepi]

my question is how can you work there for 8 years....I worked at FS 8 years ago in computers....I left because some head hunters came into the store and recruited me.....:) ... I can't stand the fact that I worked so hard and made so little money....I got offered a base salary that equal to my entire base + commisssion at FS ...so I left although I was even on the MIT program but then I figured even if I became a manager there I would be making peanuts anyways...

Well he did say he was making 75k/year easy, assuming he ment he was making more, Im not saying thats tons but I wouldn't say that is peanuts. And if you were offered more then 75k base salary I say congrats because thats a pretty decent sum assuming its normal hours.

[Think]

Is Futureshop owned by Bestbuy and which will start closing down;)

[mudman24]

FS is owned by BB and neither will close down

[Kweli]

FS and BS feed off eachother.... One makes the other stronger...

The "head's" will never choose to close OR merge them....

Competition is great for sales

[powz]

As long as there is stock, it does not matter if its a 1 day sale or an hour sale!!

Is this really true? I've had both a sales associate and customer service refuse to PM a one-day deal from Dell (one of the "12 Days of Deals") on the grounds that it is a "limited time offer", even though Dell had plenty of stock and the shipping was free. I thought this was BS until I read the policy:

"Our lowest price guarantee does not apply to advertising errors or misprints, special educational prices, restricted offers, mail order offers, rebates, coupons, premiums, free or bonus offers, OEM products, limited or minimum quantity or limited time offers, close-outs, liquidations, clearances, financing or other special offers."

Although they can argue (and they did) that the Dell price falls under the "limited time offer" exclusion, it doesn't jibe with what you said and even more ridiculously, their interpretation of the policy would have excluded all sales (because all sales are by definition limited time offers). They were obviously interpreting the policy in the worst possible way. If this comes up again, what's the best way to deal with it?

[pipolchap]

Hi,

I've got a question about the often neglected department at FS, namely appliances. They often sell appliances at big discounts when they are on sale, is it true they often only carry discontinued models?

Are appliances big money makers, how much can they be talked down?

TIA

[silicone]

"limited time offers"

Although they can argue (and they did) that the Dell price falls under the "limited time offer" exclusion, it doesn't jibe with what you said and even more ridiculously, their interpretation of the policy would have excluded all sales (because all sales are by definition limited time offers). They were obviously interpreting the policy in the worst possible way. If this comes up again, what's the best way to deal with it?


They screwed me on this the other day in TWO different stores -- they seem to have this answer down-pat for Dell.ca -- bastards

[stevethewheel]

limited time offers,


Interesting. Aren't all sales "limited time offers"? For places like FS it is usually limited to one week. But sometimes it is 2 days. Dell is 1 day.

[4flava]

Hiya, I recently returned something that i bought online at FS and as per the online return policy... online shipping cost would be refunded if product is deemed defective which was proven when they checked it over. BUT, I was told that the store has no way of refunding shipping charge if I returned something that I bought online. They then gave me a phone # to call.

So, are they just BS-ing me or is this true???

Thanks in advance.

[Xenon420]

Great Info and thanks for taking the time to answer questions from us:)


Okay I want to buy a Panasonic 50" Widescreen Plasma HDTV(TH50PX60)

http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?sku_id=0770HDS0010072626&catid=23526&logon=&langid=EN

The price you guys have listed is $2,999.99 if I get a reciept(which i have) for $2159.99 will you guys price match it????

ITS A BIG DIFFERENCE I UNDERSTAND THAT but I refuse to pay more then $2,499.99 for it.

[Xenon420]

Hiya, I recently returned something that i bought online at FS and as per the online return policy... online shipping cost would be refunded if product is deemed defective which was proven when they checked it over. BUT, I was told that the store has no way of refunding shipping charge if I returned something that I bought online. They then gave me a phone # to call.

So, are they just BS-ing me or is this true???

Thanks in advance.



thats not BS how would they be able to refund shipping?

[MMMM]

Great post Op thanks for taking the time.

[4flava]

thats not BS how would they be able to refund shipping?

Why not??.. shipping cost is shown on my receipt. Website clearly says that they would be happy to refund original Shipping cost if product is proven defective which was my case.

[Xenon420]

Why not??.. shipping cost is shown on my receipt. Website clearly says that they would be happy to refund original Shipping cost if product is proven defective which was my case.

oh i didn't read that properly i thought you didn't want the item no longer

nevermind

[magicray]

Great Info and thanks for taking the time to answer questions from us:)


Okay I want to buy a Panasonic 50" Widescreen Plasma HDTV(TH50PX60)

http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?sku_id=0770HDS0010072626&catid=23526&logon=&langid=EN

The price you guys have listed is $2,999.99 if I get a reciept(which i have) for $2159.99 will you guys price match it????

ITS A BIG DIFFERENCE I UNDERSTAND THAT but I refuse to pay more then $2,499.99 for it.

Yeah lets bring this to the TOP as we want the answers to these types of important questions.

[G M]

Why not??.. shipping cost is shown on my receipt. Website clearly says that they would be happy to refund original Shipping cost if product is proven defective which was my case.


A few weeks agoI returned something that I had ordered online, I told them it was shipped to me by mistake and they refunded my shipping charges right away, no arguing, she had to go to a different computer and get some sort of code though.

[nikversace1]

Hey buddy, just a question for you....I have a Sony Vaio Laptop that had some power fluctuation to it and for that reason has stopped turning on, I'm guessing it burnt. I have full 3 years extended warranty which is not over yet and Future Guard as well... I'm so scared as to what will happen now...will they be able to fix it or will they tell me its my fault ?! I haven't taken it to future shop yet so it'd be great to know wat mite happen if I take it in..hope to hear from you soon..thanks

[lame23]

my question is returning opened dvd-blank disck the 50pack one? exchangeable?pls somebody answer or tell me the right keyword to search

[nighthawk26]

1. Just curious how are pays calculated for someone commision-bases? Is it quite a complicated system? Is there base salaries at all?

2. Is it true that now you can only apply for a position through the website?
I tried to apply online and I was turned down. I have a B.sc in computer science 4 years, has worked various jobs related to customer service and computer hardware/software during school, and has worked for a regional college as helpdesk person after graduation and now a programmer analyst for 3 years.

I applied because I wanted a partime job, few nights/weekends a week for some extra pay. I'm not complaining here, just curious as to what FS is looking for in a potential sales employee.

1.) it is a little complicated. Every department is different. Typically it is a % based on the dolalrs sold but there are spiff (extra money) assigned to various products.

2.) it's more or less an integrity test. Very strange. Has nothign to do with your experience. MOSTLY it's all about consistency in your answers. If you failed it means on certain combinations they stategically set you were NOT consistent.

[nighthawk26]

my question is how can you work there for 8 years....I worked at FS 8 years ago in computers....I left because some head hunters came into the store and recruited me.....:) ... I can't stand the fact that I worked so hard and made so little money....I got offered a base salary that equal to my entire base + commisssion at FS ...so I left although I was even on the MIT program but then I figured even if I became a manager there I would be making peanuts anyways...

I have had head hunters too. Some I have listened too. some I have told to hit the road. I've left twice in those 8 years to presue somethign I was offered and I've learned or at least seen from those experiences people will say anythign to get what they want casue it never turned out like they said. Sure 75k isn't a TON of cash, but it's not like it's hard work man. I essentially hang out with friends all day and get good cash to do it.

[nighthawk26]

Hey Night, great post...

I had a question about LCD's

Im looking to get a 32-37" Widescreen with 1080P..
Since your around them alot, have you seen a sharp decline in price yet, if not, when do you expect them to start coming down??

What can you say about some of the brands out there?
Soyo
WestingWhite House
Toshiba
Sony
Prima
Acer
Viewsonic/Samsung
(Cant think of others, but feel free to add your own)

PERSONALLY I will never buy a generic brand. I am a PERSONAL fan of Sony, and Samsung. I have the 3292 samsung in my bedroom and love it. As for 1080P I have yet to see (at least in my store) a 1080P TV smaller than a 42.

[nighthawk26]

Is Futureshop owned by Bestbuy and which will start closing down;)


Are you kidding me? This might very well be the BEST strategy in the canadian electroncis market. You realize ever FS that had a BB go up aross the street, EVERY one of their numbers went up? All while the new BB's hit every on eof their targets. Hmm, where did all that business come from? Lemme think. 2001, the brick, the bay, sears, and all the other independants. Neither will go anywhere. In fact. FS may be entering the US again now.

[nighthawk26]

Is this really true? I've had both a sales associate and customer service refuse to PM a one-day deal from Dell (one of the "12 Days of Deals") on the grounds that it is a "limited time offer", even though Dell had plenty of stock and the shipping was free. I thought this was BS until I read the policy:

"Our lowest price guarantee does not apply to advertising errors or misprints, special educational prices, restricted offers, mail order offers, rebates, coupons, premiums, free or bonus offers, OEM products, limited or minimum quantity or limited time offers, close-outs, liquidations, clearances, financing or other special offers."

Although they can argue (and they did) that the Dell price falls under the "limited time offer" exclusion, it doesn't jibe with what you said and even more ridiculously, their interpretation of the policy would have excluded all sales (because all sales are by definition limited time offers). They were obviously interpreting the policy in the worst possible way. If this comes up again, what's the best way to deal with it?

You have to remember the "policy" is just that. It is essentially written in a way that has a million ways out. Bottom line is every store and every manager will deal with this differently. Best case in the future is for you to PRINT the screen from Dell AT THE CHECKOUT. Make sure it shows time and date and that stock was there, and the shipping was FREE. ALSO has to be next day shipping. IF there is a charge for that they will add that to the PB. Reason is at the store you get it there. There is certainly value there. Believe me I know. I've lost 50" TV sales after spending an hour with someone casue at the end of the deal it's not in the store and has to be delievered in 2 days. People walk on that all the time so they obviously want INSTAT product. Make sense? You may not like the answer but it's the best advice I can give.

[nighthawk26]

Hiya, I recently returned something that i bought online at FS and as per the online return policy... online shipping cost would be refunded if product is deemed defective which was proven when they checked it over. BUT, I was told that the store has no way of refunding shipping charge if I returned something that I bought online. They then gave me a phone # to call.

So, are they just BS-ing me or is this true???

Thanks in advance.

Man, I kid you not, I MYSELF just went through this. Bought my mom that Tassimo coffee machine. Avail. only online. Wanted to get my staff discount so I bought it online, then brought it to the store to return it then rebuy it with my discount. There is NO refunding the delivery. No BS there at all.

[nighthawk26]

Hi,

I've got a question about the often neglected department at FS, namely appliances. They often sell appliances at big discounts when they are on sale, is it true they often only carry discontinued models?

Are appliances big money makers, how much can they be talked down?

TIA

Big discount products are typicalyl the CHEAP stuff like Roper, etc. They are loss leaders and we make nothing. Cash in that dept. is made in the high end stuff. LG, and things like that. In general appliances run about 18% GM.

[nighthawk26]

Great Info and thanks for taking the time to answer questions from us:)


Okay I want to buy a Panasonic 50" Widescreen Plasma HDTV(TH50PX60)

http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?sku_id=0770HDS0010072626&catid=23526&logon=&langid=EN

The price you guys have listed is $2,999.99 if I get a reciept(which i have) for $2159.99 will you guys price match it????

ITS A BIG DIFFERENCE I UNDERSTAND THAT but I refuse to pay more then $2,499.99 for it.


WOW, $2159. Well as long as they can verify the price, it's a legit store, and it's in stock I see no reason why. But what a dirty price. Who knows. I know I had a PB from the bay on a 60" SXRD WITH a stand for like $2000. It was just stupid. But the proff was there, and I was able to verify it. It all coems down to that.

[nighthawk26]

Why not??.. shipping cost is shown on my receipt. Website clearly says that they would be happy to refund original Shipping cost if product is proven defective which was my case.

because Canada post is the shipper, NOT FS. There is no Sku for shipping, just the charge. Believe me, as mentioned by my own experience, it's not possible. However if you bitched and moaned anough up the chain I'm sure they woul;d make something happen. Perhaps in the way of a GC or something.

[trixR4kids]

what was ur position in fs for the last 8 years?

[Kevin711]

What are the requirements of being a sales rep at FS? Reason I ask is that I've never been impressed about the sale rep knowledge about anything. I used to do comission based computer sales (not at FS) and I knew my products inside out, I didn't depend on a refund policy to fix my mistakes... I actually applied a few times at FS and never got a call despite my obvious qualifications.

I'm sure some FS staff are knowledgable, but many seem to know nothing about what they're selling. Seems like they got the job because they know somebody and they're the right ethnical group of that region (my observation, no racist intent here). For example, I walk in the computer department, ask what the contrast ratio is on a LCD and the guy reads the side of the box and tells me it doesn't have one because it's not listed.

This isn't just around the holidays, its anytime, anywhere in the GTA.

[azure]

Hi, great thread!! I have a question too. I'm going to buy a laptop and is it worth it to get an extended warranty on that? I've heard a lot of horror stories from fs. Do you guys usually honour them? And how often are they replaced? thanks!


ps. when i go into fs no one comes to me. i am a student, but that doesn't mean i won't buy anything. lol. they were looking at me like daggers when i actually bought smthn really expensive off of this one guy....but all of them could have come and helped me. lmao, i was smiling.

[nighthawk26]

what was ur position in fs for the last 8 years?

I'm in sales. I was a manager for a while but went back to sales... far better money.

[nighthawk26]

What are the requirements of being a sales rep at FS? Reason I ask is that I've never been impressed about the sale rep knowledge about anything. I used to do comission based computer sales (not at FS) and I knew my products inside out, I didn't depend on a refund policy to fix my mistakes... I actually applied a few times at FS and never got a call despite my obvious qualifications.

I'm sure some FS staff are knowledgable, but many seem to know nothing about what they're selling. Seems like they got the job because they know somebody and they're the right ethnical group of that region (my observation, no racist intent here). For example, I walk in the computer department, ask what the contrast ratio is on a LCD and the guy reads the side of the box and tells me it doesn't have one because it's not listed.

This isn't just around the holidays, its anytime, anywhere in the GTA.


No idea... not like that in my store. Perhaps too much turnover? New guys? Also the training is NOT what it was years ago. Sorry, you can thank BB for that. Don't know what to say really. Every company has good enployees and bad.

[nighthawk26]

Hi, great thread!! I have a question too. I'm going to buy a laptop and is it worth it to get an extended warranty on that? I've heard a lot of horror stories from fs. Do you guys usually honour them? And how often are they replaced? thanks!


ps. when i go into fs no one comes to me. i am a student, but that doesn't mean i won't buy anything. lol. they were looking at me like daggers when i actually bought smthn really expensive off of this one guy....but all of them could have come and helped me. lmao, i was smiling.

I get this question all the time man. laptops I think it's worth it. They are CRAZY expensive to fix if they need to be. But ultimatly it's your choice. Software and batteries are NOT covererd by the warranty. This is where people ***** most. They can't understand why a sofrware problem is not covered. They jsut come in saying their computer is slow, or they get this and that error. Make sense?

As for helping you. It goes both ways. You say that, another guy says I can't walk in without getting harrassed "damn commission blood suckers". You can't please everyone. Personally I help everyone casue you NEVER know. From experience if a guy comes in in a suit and a guy comes in all grubby as hell, I'll take the grubby guy every day of the week. he's the guy who likely spends money on stuff like we sell so much he simply pays more attnetion to that stuff then his clothes, or his personal appearance. People are like that. While the nice pretty guy in the suit is just looking around more curious than anything else blabbing on about what his friend has, or he's waiting for the next great technology, or he's there to tell me how things are. Egos and bad attitudes. Again, not an absolute example, but it happens every day. Bottom line, if you need help, just ask.

[Lancer2004]

Maybe you can fill me in.... what's the deal with Sony? Did they raise the price to 699.99 for 60gb PS3 or was it actually FS/BB that did that?

Is this going to be a chain reation in all stores?

[trixR4kids]

yah, ps3 was raised in price, and bb inventory stated that no ps3 will come in stock till march

60 gb is 700, 20 is 600, i believe this is their new price

[nighthawk26]

Maybe you can fill me in.... what's the deal with Sony? Did they raise the price to 699.99 for 60gb PS3 or was it actually FS/BB that did that?

Is this going to be a chain reation in all stores?

We sell every game console for cost. So if there is a price increase it's on Sonys end not a retailer.

[quikky]

Don't buy the extended warranties at FS/BB but just PM the laptop price to Staples and get their 150$ ESP instead. 50% cheaper and it covers the battery; which FS doesn't.

[Lone_Prodigy]

yah, ps3 was raised in price, and bb inventory stated that no ps3 will come in stock till march

60 gb is 700, 20 is 600, i believe this is their new price

I heard they discontinued the 20 GB?

Wow a price increase... Sony must be doing worse then I thought.

[anastasia1009]

We sell every game console for cost. So if there is a price increase it's on Sonys end not a retailer.

the price increased was due to recent changes in the US dollar
:o

[weedb0y]

why would u say that the person that buys the tv without buying the overpriced cables and extended warranty would regret the picture. its all the same, u could use $3 RCA white/red/yellow and connect them to component and still get a good picture and the warranty is too expensive for most tv's. $$319.99 for 2 years for a LCD tv, when u get 1 year from the manufacturer and also some when u register for the warranty u get another 3 months warranty. 15 months for FREE or 24 months for $$319.99...9 months @ $36 a month for a tv, come on? it may be a reason why BB has removed comission sales because of the forced sales of items not NEEDED. I hope all people will smarten up before the 30 days and return all that crap they did not NEED.


Thats what you think? When I worked at BB, I know management pushed PSPs like crazy. Sometimes, job security depended on selling PSPs! Best thing for management in that case is that they dont pay extra $$ for it! Win Win!

[Headhunter]

The PlayStation 3 has gone up in price? Wow, what's going on... :confused:

[CanadianMike]

What are the requirements of being a sales rep at FS? Reason I ask is that I've never been impressed about the sale rep knowledge about anything. I used to do comission based computer sales (not at FS) and I knew my products inside out, I didn't depend on a refund policy to fix my mistakes... I actually applied a few times at FS and never got a call despite my obvious qualifications.

I'm sure some FS staff are knowledgable, but many seem to know nothing about what they're selling. Seems like they got the job because they know somebody and they're the right ethnical group of that region (my observation, no racist intent here). For example, I walk in the computer department, ask what the contrast ratio is on a LCD and the guy reads the side of the box and tells me it doesn't have one because it's not listed.

This isn't just around the holidays, its anytime, anywhere in the GTA.
ive always found on the whole, FS sales people have tended to be morons.

i was disappointed because you'd figure at a place that is/was so commission heavy, the sales people could actually have a clue.

i dont need to hear how i should buy an extended warranty on my product which is going to cost more than what im paying for the product alone, and i dont care that this pack of "free" cds id get if i purchased the warranty for a burner would go with the burner "like husband to wife". (true story haha)

thats not to say bestbuy is innocent. i had a horrible time pricematching legitimately one time. i got lied to multiple times, one of the only times i was ever motivated enough to actually file a legitimate complaint.

[nighthawk26]

the price increased was due to recent changes in the US dollar
:o

yeah that makes sense actually.

[nighthawk26]

AMENDMENT TO MY OFFERING OF ADVICE/HELP

If anyone has read through this whole thread or searched through it for whatever help they need, you will notice the same question asked over and over with the same response for the most part from me. Only to be followed by several more posts about how fs employees are idiots, or "morons" as the above post mentioned if I'm not mistaken. That or continual ripping of PSP, or Price matching. I will no longer address or comment on a single question re: warranty. Bottom line, you are all big boys and girls. Don't be ignorant, listen to what someone has to say then make a decision. Frankly I find it amusing all the fs/warranty bashers call people sheep for listening to what sales reps say about PSP, call them sheep or whatever. Is it not ironic you are trying to pursuade people (or heard them) just in the direction of NOT buying something. Grow up, get a life, seriously. For a second I almost forgot why I didn't come back to the board for almost a month. Thanks for the reminder! Good day!

[weedb0y]

We sell every game console for cost. So if there is a price increase it's on Sonys end not a retailer.

you got owned!

http://www.gamespot.com/news/show_blog_entry.php?topic_id=25337080&sid=6164872&tag=latestnews;title;0

[nighthawk26]

you got owned!

http://www.gamespot.com/news/show_blog_entry.php?topic_id=25337080&sid=6164872&tag=latestnews;title;0

wow, I sure did. You got me. Whatever will I do? How ever will I sleep tonight?

[krusty1128]

you got owned!

http://www.gamespot.com/news/show_blog_entry.php?topic_id=25337080&sid=6164872&tag=latestnews;title;0

supply and demand my friend. clearly demand still outweight supply, why not profit on it if consumers are willing to pay more to get their hands on one. i'm sure we'll find out in a few weeks if this works out for bb/fs.

[nighthawk26]

coincidently, I worked this afternoon, and my entertainment coordinator said that from what he's been told, we aren't expecting any till spring at the soonest. I'm sure someone on here iwll link some obscure rumour web site stating different. though. What the hell do I know.

[jonkaho]

a few days ago i went to FS to buy a LCD tv. i asked the guy if he can hook the TV up to a PC to see how looks on it. The FS guy tells me "i'm not going to hook it up because you are not going to buy it!". how does this guy know i am not going to buy it! :mad:

[nighthawk26]

a few days ago i went to FS to buy a LCD tv. i asked the guy if he can hook the TV up to a PC to see how looks on it. The FS guy tells me "i'm not going to hook it up because you are not going to buy it!". how does this guy know i am not going to buy it! :mad:

You guys love costco so much. I'd love to see them do it.

Either way, not as easy of a demo as you'd think. Too many variables as to hooking that up. I don't know of any of the computers in the comp department that have DVI (I could be totally wrong on this), so how woul dyou like it connected? S-video? I don't need to show you a demo of that to tell you it looks like ass. To his point though.. I have hooked up over a dozen screens to computers for customers all taking more than just a few minutes of time and NEVER once have they bought.

[hawkbox]

I have to call BS on the dollar change. The US dollar is still within .005$ of where it was 3 weeks ago. Though I do enjoy reading your information. Well stated, and you do have to realize that people are going to ***** purely for the enjoyment of bitching at a FS employee because they had a bad experience with a different one. Easiest thing there is just ignore to posts that add nothing new.

Much like mine ;)

But I do have a question on appliances. How negotiable are deals when you want to buy all the major ones for a new place? IE: washer, drier, dishwasher, stove, and fridge.

[sparrow_69]

Nighthawk26: first and foremost I'd like to say tks for providing us insight into the workings of FS. Aside from a few ppl, I'm sure most really appreciate. I do however, have a question.

A few years back, I remember reading about some comments made by one of the VPs of bestbuy in the u.s. The comment was made about "devil customers" which the VP mentioned were customers that made frequent returns, haggled for prices, only purchased products on sale, etc. I'd like to know if FS employees use the same term, and look down upon these customers? Furthermore, do customers who make frequent returns get "blacklisted" or something similar? Where employees would be less willing to negotiate with certain customers because of their "record", or would FS at one point deny returns from a customer? I use to work for Bell as a CSR, and I remember certain employees adding a star or something similar to a person's name ( I wasn't there very long, so I forget what it was exactly) to indicate a difficult customer. Does FS do anything similar?

[brunes]

You guys love costco so much. I'd love to see them do it.

Either way, not as easy of a demo as you'd think. Too many variables as to hooking that up. I don't know of any of the computers in the comp department that have DVI (I could be totally wrong on this), so how woul dyou like it connected? S-video? I don't need to show you a demo of that to tell you it looks like ass. To his point though.. I have hooked up over a dozen screens to computers for customers all taking more than just a few minutes of time and NEVER once have they bought.

This seems foolish to me.

If I was the manager of a FS location, I would have a demo laptop in the AV department for just this purpose, with some sample HD content from the Microsoft site downloaded and ready to go. It is ABSOLUTELY TRIVIAL to do this demo with a laptop. Even if you assume the set doe snot have a VGA port (hardly any do not nowadays), any laptop with an ATI card (read: lots of em) can use the ATI VGA->DVI adaptor, which is only $20 or so retail.

It's not like FS is running short on laptops - they probably have tons of "work laptops" kicking around for much less important purposes than selling $3000+ TV sets.

I mean, if I was a salesman, I would really be pushing for this, especially when you consider how very poor the quality of the AV setup often is in the store. It'd be a lot easier to convince a buyer to pay for the higher-priced set if they could see the difference more clearly with a true 1080p video played from a PC.

[nighthawk26]

I have to call BS on the dollar change. The US dollar is still within .005$ of where it was 3 weeks ago. Though I do enjoy reading your information. Well stated, and you do have to realize that people are going to ***** purely for the enjoyment of bitching at a FS employee because they had a bad experience with a different one. Easiest thing there is just ignore to posts that add nothing new.

Much like mine ;)

But I do have a question on appliances. How negotiable are deals when you want to buy all the major ones for a new place? IE: washer, drier, dishwasher, stove, and fridge.

As advised, ignoring the first part and moving right along. However before I do that, I'm not expert but I'm sure decisions liek that were not made so quickly. Wasn't long ago, bout 2-2 1.2 months I was buying stuff from the US at an exchange of 11-13% Now it's upwards of 20. That is a HUGE jump. Agian, not saying this is the valid reason for the price jump.


I'm not in that department but from what I'ev seen, always look for when there aer packages advertised together. TYPICALLY they are getting vendor funding so the sale will be considerably better.

[nighthawk26]

Nighthawk26: first and foremost I'd like to say tks for providing us insight into the workings of FS. Aside from a few ppl, I'm sure most really appreciate. I do however, have a question.

A few years back, I remember reading about some comments made by one of the VPs of bestbuy in the u.s. The comment was made about "devil customers" which the VP mentioned were customers that made frequent returns, haggled for prices, only purchased products on sale, etc. I'd like to know if FS employees use the same term, and look down upon these customers? Furthermore, do customers who make frequent returns get "blacklisted" or something similar? Where employees would be less willing to negotiate with certain customers because of their "record", or would FS at one point deny returns from a customer? I use to work for Bell as a CSR, and I remember certain employees adding a star or something similar to a person's name ( I wasn't there very long, so I forget what it was exactly) to indicate a difficult customer. Does FS do anything similar?

I have never heard that before, but I can tell you, truth be told, I've probably called customers worse. There certianly is no corporate policy or anything like that.

As for blacklisting. Well there are people that constantly buy and return, buy and return. Then you have The "educators". The guy who just loves to come in, ask you questions, then contradict everything you have to say. I wouldn't say there are blacklisted people necessarily, but there are people for sure who will not get helped to save their lives. That being said. Nothing is tracked as you are mentioning. More or less if another associate does not recognize one of these people another rep will likely pull him aside so he knows he's wasting his time. Make sense?

[nighthawk26]

This seems foolish to me.

If I was the manager of a FS location, I would have a demo laptop in the AV department for just this purpose, with some sample HD content from the Microsoft site downloaded and ready to go. It is ABSOLUTELY TRIVIAL to do this demo with a laptop. Even if you assume the set doe snot have a VGA port (hardly any do not nowadays), any laptop with an ATI card (read: lots of em) can use the ATI VGA->DVI adaptor, which is only $20 or so retail.

It's not like FS is running short on laptops - they probably have tons of "work laptops" kicking around for much less important purposes than selling $3000+ TV sets.

I mean, if I was a salesman, I would really be pushing for this, especially when you consider how very poor the quality of the AV setup often is in the store. It'd be a lot easier to convince a buyer to pay for the higher-priced set if they could see the difference more clearly with a true 1080p video played from a PC.

Very valid points. I can't really comment on this as I have the benefit of being in a store that has an HD feed throughout. Never have I had a problem selling a 3k plus TV due to lack of quality. However, there are MANY stores in my company that don't have this luxury and I agree 100%. I have been in some stores where a similar setup has been done. However, let me tell you one thing that will happen. You'll get THAT customer (believe me there are several) that will argue it's irrelevant what it looks like casue it's not cable. You dotta understand. We set up different demos to show varioushings, and people think we are trying to trick them. Literally, I kid you not. I wish people would understand what people can be like sometimes. ANyways, as mentioned, very good comments. There is the odd place in my store, on various endcaps that could very well be implamented with much success.

[doctorgonzo]

Hi Nighthawk,

I've got a question about returns.

I bought an lcd on boxing day and had it shipped to me. I didn't receive it until January 4th. Am I correct in assuming that the 30 day return window started on the 4th - the day I actually received the product?

thanks in advance!

[nighthawk26]

No question a grey area, but no question arguable. I get that in the TV department all the time. They buy a TV on one day but it's not delivered for a few more, etc. You SHOULD have no problems. At my store, we always have a few days grace period. It's only reasonable. People do have lives. It's when the guy comes in 2 months later saying this was the soonest he could get in that we tell them to take a hike! :)

[doctorgonzo]

Hi Nighthawk,

Thanks for the reply.

I just found this on the FS website:

How do I exchange or return a defective product I bought online?

We would be pleased to exchange or refund your online purchase, including Web Only products, in any Future Shop retail store within 30 days of receiving your order for most product categories. We will gladly exchange Computers, Monitors, Printers, Laptop Computers, Camcorders, Digital Cameras, Portable DVD Players and Air Conditioners within 14 days of receiving your order.

So it looks like I should be ok to return up until Feb. 4.

[nighthawk26]

Yup... seems to be the case. All that stuff online was recently revised. Thanks for the heads up. This is an LCD television I presume though correct? Not an LCD monitor?

What is it? A digimate?

[doctorgonzo]

Yup... seems to be the case. All that stuff online was recently revised. Thanks for the heads up. This is an LCD television I presume though correct? Not an LCD monitor?

What is it? A digimate?

It's an LG 42LC2D. I'm going to return it and get a plasma.

[nighthawk26]

Not a huge fan of that LCDactually. The higher plasma from LG (piano finish) is on for $1999.99 this week. Good luck!

[doctorgonzo]

Not a huge fan of that LCDactually. The higher plasma from LG (piano finish) is on for $1999.99 this week. Good luck!

Thanks, that's the one I was thinking about, 42PC1D - I'll see if I can haggle and get the price down - in another thread someone got that plasma for less than $1400 plus tax.

[nighthawk26]

Thanks, that's the one I was thinking about, 42PC1D - I'll see if I can haggle and get the price down - in another thread someone got that plasma for less than $1400 plus tax.

If it's the one with the piano finish, they are lying, or exagerating something. Open box, missing something, whatever. That would be pretty much cost so I'm strongly doubting it. That or they failed to mention the warranty, $800 in cables and the $2000 suround the bought with it. Alone, I would be SHOCKED to see that TV at that price. The LG entry level plasma is $1699.99 now. Lemme know how you make out.

[doctorgonzo]

If it's the one with the piano finish, they are lying, or exagerating something. Open box, missing something, whatever. That would be pretty much cost so I'm strongly doubting it. That or they failed to mention the warranty, $800 in cables and the $2000 suround the bought with it. Alone, I would be SHOCKED to see that TV at that price. The LG entry level plasma is $1699.99 now. Lemme know how you make out.

Well, here's the post:

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showpost.php?p=4527259&postcount=74

But apparently there was a sale at the time for the price of 1499.99 so the guy managed to get it for 1319.99+tax. (some wrangling with PM, etc)

[crimsona]

Do you earn commission off staff purchases?

[jacker]

<snip>

I use to work for Bell as a CSR, and I remember certain employees adding a star or something similar to a person's name ( I wasn't there very long, so I forget what it was exactly) to indicate a difficult customer. Does FS do anything similar?

Hahaha I wish we could do that at FS... I already know of a few customers I'd love to classify as difficult.

[nighthawk26]

Do you earn commission off staff purchases?

nope, not a dime

[nighthawk26]

Well, here's the post:

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showpost.php?p=4527259&postcount=74

But apparently there was a sale at the time for the price of 1499.99 so the guy managed to get it for 1319.99+tax. (some wrangling with PM, etc)

Then he worked someone over pretty good and caught someone with their pants down. People at customer service try all the time with CSR's and the odd time one will slip through. I'm guessing they thought it was the lower model and PM that. Who knows. All the power to him, I'm just saying don't hold you're breath and the $1999.99 sale ends on Thursday. For $2299 you can get it with the surround. Of course, check around to make sure you can't find it lower.

[Rosico]

Interesting thread!

I'm wondering what the compensation is for store managers?

Also, as a full timer, what type of other benefits do you receive (vacation, health/dental, other neat things besides staff discount).

[nighthawk26]

Interesting thread!

I'm wondering what the compensation is for store managers?

Also, as a full timer, what type of other benefits do you receive (vacation, health/dental, other neat things besides staff discount).

Store managers earn a base salary then can earn upwards of 60% of that in bonuses. The bonus structure will change from quarter to quarter depending how the company shifts focus. Examples are however, customer loyalty surveys, sales, gross margin, etc, etc.

Benefits are fantastic. Full benefits with Sunlife. They are on a flex credit system to you can allocate as you see fit, or take cash back for what you don't need/want. This includes both dental and health for you and your family. Vacation is standard, it's a percentage of your earnings whatever they may be as it's commission obviously. We even get paid for sick days. That pay is the average of the last 3 months worked. there really is no limit as long as it's not completely out of line and rediculous.

We also have the chance to be in the "circle of excellence". This is a program that rewards the top 10% of associates in the company. IT is ranked by sales, gross margin, accessory sales, psp, open box and clearance sales, and your return percentage. It's set up to reward OVERALL best salespeople So if you just push boxes out the door and don't try to help the best you can to find what the custoemr needs they return it and it will negatively affect you on this ranking system. If you are in the top 10% for the year there is a trip. last year was to Lake Louise, this year is to South Beach Miami. So there are about 200 or so associates from across the country for 4 days, and there is approx $300,000 in prizes given out. There are some other perks involved there too, as you can obviously bring a guest. Holiday pay is also EXTREAMLY fair. It's not unheard of to make $5000 on boxing day alone after you figure commission and pay for being there. That week of boxing week can be worth over $8000 to more than a few people. It's a good job.. believe me.

[sparrow_69]

Hey nighthawk26

Not sure if you are still keeping up with this thread, but if you are, I have a another question for you. I have had a FS card for a few years now. I recently learned from a buddy of mine that FS changed banks and he received a new card (about 2 weeks ago). I personally have not used my card in about 4months, and never heard anything about this bank change. I'm thankful he told me about the change, since i was looking to make a purchase with the card in the near future. I called the FS CC phone number and spoke to a csr, which confirmed the bank change. She also informed me that my current card was no longer valid, even though the account was still open. The csr told me there was no reason to keep the account open (since cc was cancelled), but that it would stay open if I didn't request closing it.

I'm very surprised that FS did this as it causes us cc holders to have to cancel the old account, and apply for their new cc if we so desire (affecting our credit for the cancellation and applying for the new card). Now I don't know if you would know any of the specifics towards this, but it seems like a lousy move by fs. Have you heard anyone else complain about this, or someone try to purchase something on their card, just to find out the card was cancelled and have to apply for a new one?

I'm assuming that my situation only applies to people who don't have any balances or financing on their card, since my friend just received a new card in the mail (he was financing a purchase)

[crimsona]

Hey nighthawk26

Not sure if you are still keeping up with this thread, but if you are, I have a another question for you. I have had a FS card for a few years now. I recently learned from a buddy of mine that FS changed banks and he received a new card (about 2 weeks ago). I personally have not used my card in about 4months, and never heard anything about this bank change. I'm thankful he told me about the change, since i was looking to make a purchase with the card in the near future. I called the FS CC phone number and spoke to a csr, which confirmed the bank change. She also informed me that my current card was no longer valid, even though the account was still open. The csr told me there was no reason to keep the account open (since cc was cancelled), but that it would stay open if I didn't request closing it.

I'm very surprised that FS did this as it causes us cc holders to have to cancel the old account, and apply for their new cc if we so desire (affecting our credit for the cancellation and applying for the new card). Now I don't know if you would know any of the specifics towards this, but it seems like a lousy move by fs. Have you heard anyone else complain about this, or someone try to purchase something on their card, just to find out the card was cancelled and have to apply for a new one?

I'm assuming that my situation only applies to people who don't have any balances or financing on their card, since my friend just received a new card in the mail (he was financing a purchase)

Saw one guy try to purchase with the old card, rejected. There's absolutely nothing you can do about it. FS/BBY terminated their contract with Wells Fargo and went with HSBC instead. Everybody had to reapply for a new card, including FS employees. Anybody that says they didn't is mistaken, as HSBC specifically refused to transfer over all WF accounts as part of the migration process.

Annoying? Yes. But that's why there are credit card coupons floating around

[m4gician]

would you be willing to sell me merchandise using cost + 10 or so? Reducing and item and using I think it was reason 6 or reason 8? Because a lot of accessories are over inflated and having worked there myself, I want to be able to purchase some accessories for my ipod, and camera.

[m4gician]

Also, if I were to compensate you, would you be willing to pick up some car audio merchandise i.e. rockford fosgate which I believe you get around 50% - 75% off retail? :)

[nighthawk26]

sorry for the delay, but no I would not be willing to do that. You worked there and you know our pricing is cost plus 10. And the deals on the car audio stuff are tracked through the vendor, they are not done through the store at all. Not willing to loose my job to make a few bucks. Would cost me a hell of a lot more in the long run, thats for sure. There is a freinds and family sale Sunday though.. more than happy to help you out there!:)

[samcsamdo]

Does FS have a drug testing policy?If so,would testing positive for something as benign as marijuana be cause for dismissal? I know more than a few chatty *******s who are excellent sales ppl.:lol: