Never any stock and little variety (Tesco Express)

Member Name: jodyv

Product:	Tesco Express
Date:	13/03/09 (81 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Convenience

Disadvantages: Disappointing

Back in 1998 I took my first real job at Tesco Express in Birmingham; it was only part time while completing my A-levels. This was the first Tesco Express outside of London, but being slap bang in the middle of Selly Oak where the students live it was bound to thrive.

The idea behind Tesco Express is a cut down version of the store, selling only the major product lines and usually only one variety. Tow types of store exist; petrol station (generally ESSO) and a stand alone store.

I've found that the variety of choice can vary from store to store. The express near my office stocks a good variety of sandwiches and salads...because it's potential main business is this due to local office locations, however the store near where I live has a very limited lunchtime range and in small quantities.

Having a store locally is a great convenience, but I do find the choice rarely fits my needs. Recently I called by on a Sunday afternoon; I was after a few simple ingredients in order to cook a meal. My local Edgbaston Express either had issues with their refrigeration or the stock replenishing system had taken a break. Simple items like peppers, broccoli, tomato and cucumber were completely out... I decided to change my cooking plans to Risotto....but thought again. Something like Risotto rice definitely doesn't exist in Tesco Express.

The price of items also seems to be a touch more compared to a large store. It may only be a few pence, but why are we paying extra for the convenience?

The level of staff also seems to be an issue. The food deliveries sit around for ages before stock hits the shelves. For fresh produce, if I manage to find someone (other than the one person on the till) to ask to look out the back, most of the time the item I'm after is in stock, it's just sat in the chiller...

Special offer seem to run separately to the main store.... There's usually a total of 10 special offers across the store, most offer a small saving.

Even though the store is better than nothing, I also find myself disappointed and frustrated when my meals are turned into something lesser than planned.

Tesco, if you're reading this review, please increase the staff, stock the shelves...you'll sell more products and one other request.... Cashback!!

Summary: A local Tesco store can have it's uses, but it needs improving all round!