Argos is different to any other store, as all the items that are for sale are available for you to see in their free bi-annual catalogue, which you can view in the comfort of your own home. The catalogue that comes out is for Spring/Summer and then Autumn/Winter. In addition to this catalogue Argos has also recently launched their new ‘Additions ‘ catalogue, which is a new clothing catalogue for all the family.

The 954 page catalogue is split up into seven categories: -
Jewellery
Personal Care
Houseware
Home and Interiors
Office and Electronics
Outdoor and Leisure
Toys and Nursery

There is an extensive range for sale in each category, with each item having its own catalogue number.

When you have chosen the product that you would like to buy from the catalogue, then you can either: -
Ring and reserve the item/s, using a touch-tone phone and calling 0870 600 1010 this is an automated call and you will need the catalogue of the item that you wish to purchase and also a 3 digit code for the store that you wish to visit to collect your item/s. (All the Argos stores have a three digit code which are all listed at the back of the current Argos catalogue.) From this automated service you can find out whether the item is in stock at the store that you have chosen, and also the current price, you can then reserve the item. You will need a pen to write down the reservation number that you are given and then you will need to quote this number when you collect your goods in store. This service is invaluable for checking stock availability instead of having to traipse down to your local store, only to find that the item is out of stock.

You can also shop on Interactive TV, or on the Internet by going to - www.argos.co.uk. Then click on the link to reserve online on the home page and then follow the simple instructions - choose your store, pick the items that you would like to reserve, click to check availability at the store and then click to reserve. Make a note of your reservation number or alternatively print out the form, and then take it to pick up your goods from the store that you have chosen.

Or you can simply just call in at your local store. The shop is set out differently to normal stores, as everything is kept in a warehouse, and is only brought up after it has been paid for. There are a few items on display but not the whole range that is for sale. Alternatively as you really are buying blind apart from going on the picture in the catalogue, you can ask at the checkout to view the item before you purchase, which is often better for peace of mind, before spending your hard earned money. Write the catalogue number on the pre-printed forms and take to the check out, to pay. On your receipt will be a collection point number either A, B, C or D, or in some of the newer stores there will just be a number, and then you need to watch on the screen until this number comes up. When your number is displayed on screen then this means that your item/s have been brought up from the warehouse.

By the way there is also free delivery on any order that is over £100.00.

Now this is where I get infuriated and frustrated, and where I think the store lets itself down. Whenever I go to purchase something from my local store, it always takes me a good fifteen/twenty minutes. It doesn’t matter if I’m the only person in the store; it still takes me a long time before I receive my goods. Every time I go into Argos, it is always the same; I get so frustrated seeing my goods the other side of the counter, just waiting for an Assistant to pass them to me. Why shop there? I hear you cry, well all the items that are in the catalogue are all reasonably priced, that are covered by a 16 day Money Back Guarantee, if you are not totally satisfied. They also have exceptional bargains, which are brought to the consumer by way of various price reduction leaflets. For example I have just purchased a ‘Teksta’ dog for £9.99 instead of £39.99, and on Saturday a Pokemon Special Limited Edition Game Boy Color for £32.49 instead of £64.99, so as you can see they definitely have some worthwhile bargains, but you do have to be quick. This is where the ring and reserve number comes in really handy as bargains like these don’t last. If the item that you want is out of stock then it is worthwhile phoning round all the other stores that are close to you, as I had to do with the Gameboy Color, but it was definitely worth it.

Perhaps it is just my local store that seem to have problems with their Customer Service, or has anyone else experienced the same. All that I ask is that I am promptly served, and not left to stare at my items that I have purchased from the other side of the counter!!! I just get so frustrated, whether I have got all the time in the world or I am in a rush - I am always kept waiting!

Other services that Argos offer include:-
Gift Vouchers - £1, £5, £10 and £20 denominations
Wedding Gift Service
Mobile Phone Insurance
Jewellery Insurance
Car and Home Insurance
RAC membership
Travel Insurance
Travel money
Pre book - Airport parking, Airport hotels, Holiday car hire

EXCELLENT STORE - POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE!