Here is my experience:
I passed by around lunchtime on Thursday to place my order for a print and to make payment. Mr Joe Bassal advised that it would be ready by Monday.
Monday I pass by to pick up the file, once again, received the opposite of a warm welcome into his shop. (he seems annoyed every time he has to get up from his office chair and come tend to his customers)
Despite this, I am excited to pick up my print. Mr Joe Bassal says "it's not ready, come back tomorrow, I had larger orders!"
Ok, so not a good start. I would completely understand, but the way he came across, like he could care less, he's not even the tiniest bit apologetic.
Ok, so a bit disappointed, but left and planned how to shift my schedule around again to make sure I can make it during his office hours and pick up my print.
Attempt #2, Went to pick up my print, again super excited as it is a gift, this time it's in the shop yay. Mr Joe Bassal hands me the print, wrapped in brown paper. Naturally, when I order something, I like to make sure I am getting what I paid for, so I ask to open and see it. (He Seem annoyed, like it's unreasonable request).
He gets it open, and I noticed huge finger smudges on about 3x3 surface area of my print, which is going to be framed. I mention, "there's a smudge, do you think it will come off?"
To which he responds: "you don't want it? if you don't want it, leave it, I'll give you back your money."
Me: "I just want to know if this can be wiped off, it's for a gift, and there are smudges".
Joe: How do you expect it to come off?? Look at the material! It's part of the handling, you're going to be handling it as well!
#1 No one wants a printed photo to have smudges, so if that's part of the handling, that's unacceptable.
#2 I'm the customer, you're the "supposed expert" and I was trying to find a solution. His immediate reaction was if you don't want it, leave it! Why is that his immediate response/ reaction? Obviously I want something I ordered, paid and was excited for.
He completely ruined this entire experience for me and I don't think I've ever had such bad service in my entire life.
We proceed to do the refund, and he makes a comment "You think I care about your $43 order it's not a big deal for my business".
Ok, so next time, how about you just say you don't do small orders for individuals, if the small orders don't matter to you!
I recommend he take a course in customer service. I don't know how he stays open with such lousy service towards his customers. I mean it's common sense to treat people with decency and respect. read more