Shopping Guide: PlaceMakers Napier
PlaceMakers Shopping Guide: An Informed Visitor's Perspective
Why You Should Visit
Based on my experiences and observations, here's why you might want to consider PlaceMakers for your building and hardware needs:
- Excellent Service & Helpful Staff: You'll find staff that are generally described as friendly, helpful, and willing to go the extra mile. Several reviews specifically highlight instances of staff being polite, obliging, interested, and following through.
- Kitchen & Laundry Upgrades: If you're planning a kitchen or laundry renovation, this store seems like a good starting point. You can expect a dedicated service, exemplified by Wendy, who has been exceptional in assisting customers with designs, alternative options, and accommodating requests. The final quote might even be lower than initially anticipated.
- Competitive Prices: The store is described as having "great prices," suggesting that you might find value compared to other stores.
- Availability of Stock: Specifically for the Napier branch, staff have had wood in stock and other needed items.
- Knowledgeable Staff: In specific instances, you might get good advice on your home DIY.
- Quick and Efficient Service: Several reviews point to a generally positive experience with efficiency, including a young man at the counter providing quick service.
- Special Orders & Finding Obscure Items: The store can help track down hard-to-find items. For example, they were able to source a 15-year-old door handle unit that other stores couldn't. They can also do some research to find parts that are still being manufactured.
- Easy Account Opening (Potentially): One reviewer suggests they will likely open an account there soon, suggesting it's a simple process if you frequent the store.
- Good Deals Available: You could get a great deal, according to the reviews.
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
While there are many positives, here's what to keep in mind before visiting:
- Online Order Issues (Napier Branch): Be aware that online orders, specifically at the Napier branch, can be problematic. The store appears to have issues with knowing you have an order, or acknowledging your existence as a customer. You might encounter confusion, incorrect information, and additional charges.
- Communication Issues (Napier Branch): The communication between the online ordering system and the store, as well as with head office is poor at the Napier branch. Be prepared for potential delays and miscommunication.
- Potential for Staff Knowledge Gaps: You might encounter staff who lack knowledge about specific products. One review mentions an operator not knowing what "standard building blocks" are.
- Trade Department Service Concerns: One review mentions problems with the trade department, including lack of service.
- Inconvenient Store Layout (Napier Branch): You might find the store layout at the Napier branch confusing, especially if you're picking up an online order. There may be poor signage, and you could have to walk around the building to find the correct entrance.
- Pre-ordering May Be Necessary: You might have to pre-order certain items to ensure availability, as mentioned in the building blocks example.
