Promises in sales literature not kept (Anglian)

Member Name: lagunaman

Product:	Anglian
Date:	22/12/08 (267 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Good blocks used and minor repairs carried out quickly.

Disadvantages: High price, poor service, sales literature meaningless

I would not recommend anyone to buy an Anglian driveway.
We decided on an Anglian, even though it cost more, because we felt that with the Anglian '4 Stage Inspection and QualityControl Process' we would have a well managed and trouble free installation and a driveway to a proven standard. Not true.
The sub-contactor, whose other line was roofing, started work a day and a half late and had little idea of how to follow the Anglian installation plan. They laid the blocks and one edging so badly out of alignment that 50% of the drive and one edge had to be replaced adding 1 1/2 days to the installation. When completed the drainage gully, which is plastic, was found to be fitted without end stops so that water drained into the house foundations, this was 'repaired' with cement.The Anglian Installation Manager appeared overstretched as he had to supervise nine sub-contactors, probably working on some 20 sites, spread over a large area.This meant that the customer had to supervise the sub-contractor and deal with with them when problems occurred. The much vaunted 4 Stage Inspection and Quality Control Process was non-existant when I requested it, no staff and no processes were in place to carry it out. When I complained I had a letter from an Anglian Director saying they had no contractual requirement to meet the statements made in their own sales literature. Effectively therefor the sales literature promises are meaningless.
We feel we paid a premium price for a second rate installation with a third rate service and that the Anglian sales literature was totally misleading.
For the most senior management of Anglian to say that they have no responsibility for meeting the promises they make in their own sales literature make this the worst company I have ever dealt with.
I would recommend using a reputable local driveway installer as it will almost certainly work out much cheaper and you will prbably get a better job. If possible find a company recommended by your local trading standards organisation and ask to see their work and talk to their customers . Check very carefully what will be provided in terms of edgings, drain covers and drainage gully and also what installation specification they work to.Driveways are expensive so get every thing in writing.

Summary: Not worth the premium price.