Argos Direct

As I have just moved into my first flat, I was looking for some some furniture. I've previously bought items from their shop, and have been very satisifed with the goods. Therefore I decided to use Argos Direct to get a bed, bedroom furniture, plus a TV unit for the living room.

After browsing through the Argos catalogue I identifed the items I wanted, and then looked them up on the website. This was quick and easy to do. I selected the items I wanted and payment was taken. As all the items weren't in stock I was told that someone would contact me within 21 days to arrange delivery. I then realised I needed a couple more items, and ordered these seperately. I was told these would be delivered within 28 days.

I kept an eye on the website during this time, and noted that each item individually became available for delivery, so was slightly bemused that I had still heard nothing.

After waiting patiently for the first order 21 days came and went with no-one contacting me. I contacted the call centre and was told that they were still waiting for an item, and that they would contact me as soon as possible. Over the next few days I emailed and phoned to track my order, but was given clearly scripted replies that didn't really answer my question.

Finally after pointing out that it was very unacceptable for the items to have been available on the website when I had not received my order (especially given they'd taken payment at the time the order was placed) and threatening to take further action I received an email saying that they would deliver 3 of the 4 items in my first order the next week. I was given no choice of time or date, and they could not promise that the delivery men would call ahead on the day.

On the same day I received a letter saying that the second order was going to be delayed (to up to 8 weeks after I'd ordered it). This prompted me to give up and cancel both orders.

I wouldn't recommend the delivery service unless you've got a lot of time to wait! If it's not available in store go somewhere else or you might never get it!