Oct 31, 2008 10:25 am US/Eastern
Consumer Report: Stores With Best Customer Service
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
Despite sluggish sales, and a slow economy, many retailers say they're spending more on improving their customer service.
So which stores are succeeding?
Nowadays cash-strapped consumers say good customer service determines where they shop even more.
"[It] keeps you coming back and it makes you feel important," Upper West Side resident Anna Jenkins says.
That's why more than half of retailers recently surveyed said beefing up customer service is a top priority in this softer economy.
"Companies seem to understand that, because of the economic situation, they are keeping an eye on their customers' satisfaction," Brad Holdgreve, of Corporate Research International, says.
Retail experts say stores are spending more than ever to provide the best customer service.
"Companies need to do everything they can in maintaining their customer base and portraying brand image," Holdgreve says.
So just who's getting it right?
Corporate Research International, a mystery shopper company, surveyed more than 3,000 consumers to rate which retailers had the best customer service in their field. Walgreens Pharmacy scored the highest for drug stores, which had customers on the Upper West Side quite pleased.
"It says they are a good company," Jenkins said.
Also at the top of their league are Stride Rite shoe store, Chase Banks, Olive Garden restaurants, and Staples office supplies.
"They do a lot of work to keep their customers happy and they scored the highest because of it," Holdgreve says.
Rounding out the bottom of the list are Denny's, Getty Mart, and Day's Inn, all of which scored about a 6 out of 10 when it comes to providing excellent customer service.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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