A unique shopping experience which is catching on (Argos)

Member Name: nixtee

Product:	Argos
Date:	27/09/08 (128 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: You can see the items the shops sells and if they are in-stock before leaving home!

Disadvantages: None that I can think of.

Argos sell everything from toys, home entertainment (such as TVs, MP3 players etc), photography equipment, furniture, all kinds of homeware, jewellery, computers, camping gear, mobile phones and more. You think of it and they probably sell it!

Argos provide a unique way of shopping, although other companies are starting to bring these ideas into their own shopping experiences. Previously, Index was the only other shop doing it this way.

Their shopping experience involves a catalogue (which can be viewed in-store, at home or on their website) in which you find what you're after, note down the item number and then buy it (either via their website, at the tills or using their self-service screen). There are a number of catalogues dotted around Argos stores along with pens and order tickets. Staff are always on hand should you need any help.

Once you have paid for your item you will be assigned a collection point and a screen (and voice) will tell you when your items are ready for you to select. Items are usually ready within a couple of minutes, depending on how busy the store is. Our local store offers a 3 rows of seats for you to sit on while you wait... However, I'm usually called to my collection point as soon as my bum hits the seat!

Jewellery and Watches can be bought from the dedicated Jewellery counter in-store. You let staff know what you want and they will show you the item prior to you buying it so you can check the quality & size.

Prices are on par with other retail stores and they often have special offers on.

Also, you can check the stock in your local store (and other stores nearby) before going to the actual shop (this could save you a journey!). If you visit the website www.argos.co.uk and find the item you're after (you will also be shown special offers associated with the item), you can select the "Buy or Reserve" button (this does not in any way commit you to buy or reserve the item, but will enable you to check stock). If you then select "Reserve for Store Pick-up" you'll be asked to enter either your postcode or town name. I always enter my postcode and this will tell me if the item I'm after is in stock in my nearest store, if it is out of stock there then it will allow me to choose from other "nearby" stores.

It is always worth checking the website and in-store for any special offers or clearance deals. Earlier this year I bought a Nintendo Wii from my local Argos store and was given a £20 voucher (for spending over a certain amount) to spend in-store, so I went back a couple of days later and spent the £20 voucher on 2 Wii games that were in their 2 games for £20 offer. So effectively, I got 2 free games with my Wii!

Today I bought an iPod Touch from Argos and there was an offer for a half-price case. I was going to use the Self Service machine, but when it wasn't showing up the correct price for the iPod & case together, I went to the till. The man behind the till was very friendly and I was able to buy the iPod with the half-price case. I think the offer was very new and their system wasn't quite up-to-date, but the manager knew about it.

I have shopped at Argos for years (although one was only built in my nearest town 2 or 3 years ago) and all in all I have always had good service.

Summary: No need to wonder around a store to find what you want!