I can see clearly now (Boots Opticians)

Member Name: x-cupcake-x

Product:	Boots Opticians
Date:	11/09/09 (115 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Excellent Customer Service, collect advantage points

Disadvantages: None for me

*This review is for the branch in Grimsby*

When I started getting headaches more than normal last year, I thought it was time I went for an eye test. Through my advantage card I had been sent a voucher for a free eye examination, so I decided I may as well make an appointment.

I went to the Boots Optician website where I was given the option of booking online or phoning for an appointment. After checking the site and entering my postcode I was given a list of four branches near to me. As it was my first time visiting I decided to telephone rather than book online, even though it looked straight forward enough I would rather have spoken to someone.

When I called, I got through to a polite gentleman who asked what branch I would like an appointment at, which date and at what time. I was fortunate to get both my chosen date and time were available so I went ahead and booked it. He then asked if I had any other questions and also if I was making an appointment because of the free voucher.

As I'd given them my mobile number at the time I got a text message later confirming the date & time of my booking.

The optician I saw was very friendly and explained everything she was doing and what each part of the test was for. At the end of the examination she confirmed that I would need glasses for using the computer and driving.

I was then taken back to the front of the store so I could discuss my options regarding glasses. The lady who was dealing with me asked if I was going to choose a pair there and then, or come back at another time. She also said that I didn't have to buy them from Boots Opticians if I didn't want to. As I was already there I thought I may as well choose some there and then especially as I would get Advantage card points for my purchase too. I was shown to the womens range of glasses and asked what sort of style I would like, I tried on several pairs and the lady was very helpful giving her opinion on them too which was really useful in deciding on which ones to go for. When I finally settled on some, she told me that as they were over £74 I was entitled to a pair of Boots own brand glasses free as a second pair - yet more decisions lol!
I chose my second pair and was asked whether I would like them as standard glasses or to have a tint to them, with me needing to wear them for driving I chose to have them as prescription sunglasses as I often find that I need to wear sunglasses when I'm driving.
I was asked whether I wanted to take out insurance on them for £20 which covers loss and damage, being a bit clumsy at times I thought this worthwhile me having and chose to buy this too. It was made clear to me that I didn't have to buy this if I didn't want it. It was the same with some anti-glare coating that I could have had put on the lenses too, I chose not to have this and at no point was I made to feel like I was making a mistake and I really really should be adding this to my order (you know how some sales people make you feel when you say you don't want something).
Once the order had been made I was told my glasses would be ready within seven working days and I would receive a card through the post. When I paid I did notice that you only get one point per pound spent for the advantage rather than the four points in Boots stores which I didn't know about until then.

Although I hadn't had my card about a week later I was going through to Grimsby for another reason, and thought it would be worth my while just giving them a call and checking if my glasses were ready as this would save me another trip at a later date.
Luckily for me they were ready for collection. When I went to pick them up, I was taken to try them on and check I could see okay through them, they then adjusted them slightly for me for a better fit.

I have been wearing them for nearly ten months now and haven't had to go back for any reason, hopefully I won't need to until next year when I'll need another eye test. After my good experience I won't hesitate in going back to Boots Opticians.

Thanks for reading

Current eye test price (from Boots website not included in word count)

"An eye test in most Boots Opticians is only £20, although many people are entitled to a free eye test from the NHS. If you are over 60 or under 19 and in full time education, or if you visit one of our practices in Scotland, you will be entitled to a free eye test at Boots Opticians. Speak to a member of staff for further information."

Summary: I would recommend them