Picotalk Blog Compilation

I've recently been re-acquainted with just how stupid huge companies can be. Sears, in their infinite wisdom decided to punish customers for using their catalog ordering and online ordering services. This mammoth giant began charging customers a $2.00 handling fee for all catalog orders, and if you are kind enough to save them the time and hassle of calling in your order by using their online store, they'll charge you an additional $3.00.

In a day and age where businesses are trying desperately to attract and acquire more customers online, it's common to see offers such as "Free Shipping"; I have even seen offers of "Free Return Shipping" if the item doesn't work out. So what is it that makes Sears so confident that customers will swallow a $5.00 charge to order anything online, such as a $10.00 piece of clothing? And for $5.00 what do you get? You have to pick up the order from their store or local outlet, so it's not like it's really that convenient. And if the order is clothing and it doesn't fit, well you've just paid $5.00 for nothing. They don't refund the fee when you return or exchange the item.

This is a prime example of how a big business can really do something stupid to alienate their long-term somewhat loyal customers. Their lack of remorse and solid stance on these charges has led me to cancel an account that I've had with Sears since 1997. Further to that action, I don't think that I'll be spending any of my hard-earned money in their stores ever again.

There are many businesses out there that go out of their way to not punish their customers, long term or new. Sears has very clearly shown me that they don't want my business, so let's see who does!

Mickael Maddison