After reviewing a number of websites in search of furnishing for two of our Downtown Toronto condos, we chose to visit BLVD a few blocks from our home. We chose BLVD not just on the basis of their proximity to our home but rather because we found their website (moreso the merchandise on the site) very appealing.
We arrived at the store on Queen West shortly after 12 noon on Saturday July 18, 2008 and upon entering (the otherwise empty) store observed three female members of staff conversing at a counter along the western wall of the showroom. We walked towards them and upon noticing that we were being COMPLETELY IGNORED, I covertly whispered to my wife "I wonder if they greet customers. I don't think I can give my money to these folks".
Nevertheless, we needed furniture and quietly proceeded towards the back of the showroom where a few interesting pieces were displayed. It became quite evident that the staff had not an iota of etiquette (or business sense) when one of the young ladies, upon making her way to the back of the store walked right up to us and said "excuse me please" (not "hello, may we help you with anything? or "hello, how are you today?") and walked right by as I (a customer) had to step out of HER way.
At this point my wife asked the ladies "doesn't anyone say hello to customers" at which point one of the ladies walked over and gave a half-baked excuse that "the noise of the air conditioning" does not allow them to hear customers (who walked no more than 2 feet by the counter at which they were conversing).
There was a further discussion in which one of the ladies who upon my asking "who manages the store" replied "we all work here". She then did what can only be considered as "copping an attitude". We are yet to hear "we apologise" or "what can we help you with today?" from any of the three women in the store.
Inspiring website! Inspiring assortment! TERRIBLY RUDE STAFF!
Anyone can setup a showroom and stock it with inspiring stuff. It's people that make the difference to customers!
- Approximate cost of services:
- $15,000.00