Mystery Shopper: Warrington

Mystery Shopper requires a robust handsfree car kit without an earphone piece. It should be removable and within a budget of £200

Product range – 2/5
Product knowledge – 2/5
Airtime knowledge – N/A
Questioning ability – 1/5
Sales ability – 2/5
Shop appearance – 5/5
Total – 12/30

4: O2

Product range – 3/5
Product knowledge – 2/5
Airtime knowledge – N/A
Questioning ability – 1/5
Sales ability – 2/5
Shop appearance – 5/5
Total – 13/30

3: T-Mobile

Product range – 3/5
Product knowledge – 3/5
Airtime knowledge – N/A
Questioning ability – 2/5
Sales ability – 3/5
Shop appearance – 5/5
Total – 16/30

2: Carphone Warehouse

Product range – 3/5
Product knowledge – 4/5
Airtime knowledge – N/A
Questioning ability – 2/5
Sales ability – 3/5
Shop appearance – 5/5
Total – 17/30

1: Halfords

Product range – 4/5
Product knowledge – 4/5
Airtime knowledge – N/A
Questioning ability – 2/5
Sales ability – 4/5
Shop appearance – 5/5
Total – 19/30

Summary

Halfords was clearly the most informed store; the large product range, live demo models and staff product knowledge put all the others in the shade.

Parrot products are a common choice where stocked despite the higher price points. Staff are aware of the features which add the value.

Stores tended to have more of the cheaper handsfree kits available, specifically products with earphone pieces but nothing really expensive. Customer service was pleasant in each outlet but confidence and knowledge in the products varied greatly.

Full review in Mobile News issue 474 (October 11, 2010).

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