MAR-K rant

[BigTex]

I feel for you on that one nyncompute.... Thats not the way to treat a customer. Some people don't realize the negative spin they get when something like this happens. I for one will file that away in the back of my head. On the other hand, if they had gone out of their way to take care of you, I'd have remembered that too.

[rauto13]

I used to work at a "mom & pop" auto parts store (my dad's) for about 15 years. He lived about ten minutes from the store and I lived about 20 minutes from the store. The store was open from 8:00 to 5:00 Monday through Friday and 8:00 to 12:00 on Saturdays. Almost every weekend someone would either call Dad or me for some part that was "needed" after business hours. We were both willing to go and open the store and help out someone who needed something to keep their vehicle running, so they could get to work.

Now, like I said this happened almost every weekend, for me to wash my hands (always working on some old car), change clothes, drive 10 miles to the store, open up, find the part, take cash, talk a bit, close the store, drive home, change back into old clothes and continue what I was doing took me about 2 hours. I like my weekends and days off, but my Dad did teach me you have to take care of your customers.

What I also found out was every Saturday about 11:30 the store would get very busy, right before quittin time. Then I started keeping the store open by myself from 12:00 to 4:00 on Saturdays to make a little extra money. When I did that, surprisingly enough, at 11:30 there were hardly any customers, but about 3:30, the store would be packed. And then you get the call as you are walking out the door that some guy (15 minutes away) needs a spark plug for his lawnmower and wants you to wait on him (true story).

The word gets around when someone is willing to help out customers and take that extra effort to work around other people's schedule, which is good, but there are some people that will wait to the last minute and expect someone else to put their life on hold, cause they wanted to finish watching their tv show. The people that take advantage of others good nature is what is what spoils it for those who really appreciate a helping hand.

Another issue that came up all too often was that when Dad or me would take that extra effort for customers, some would still go down the street to another store sometimes to save $1.00 on a part. That was probably my Dad's biggest pet peeve. So much for loyalty, he would say.

[Rokcrln]

Now I have never been to their store or for that matter I don't even know were it is What I do know is when I called them for some trim items I was looking for and told them all I wanted was prices, they told me no problem what can we help you with! After about 20-30 minutes loking up every little thing that I asked for and knowing that I was just phone shopping he toild me it was all saved under my name and if they could help me out in the future just let them know! I was so impressed with this that I went ahead and dropped about $1400 on SS for my truck and it was all top notch!

Would it have been nice if they would have happened to be their on Saturday for you, yes it would have been great! You still spent the money with them because you wanted the best parts for what you needed and that is just what you will get, the best!

Kevin
LFD Inc.

[68 short step]

Originally Posted by rauto13

I used to work at a "mom & pop" auto parts store (my dad's) for about 15 years. He lived about ten minutes from the store and I lived about 20 minutes from the store. The store was open from 8:00 to 5:00 Monday through Friday and 8:00 to 12:00 on Saturdays. Almost every weekend someone would either call Dad or me for some part that was "needed" after business hours. We were both willing to go and open the store and help out someone who needed something to keep their vehicle running, so they could get to work.

Now, like I said this happened almost every weekend, for me to wash my hands (always working on some old car), change clothes, drive 10 miles to the store, open up, find the part, take cash, talk a bit, close the store, drive home, change back into old clothes and continue what I was doing took me about 2 hours. I like my weekends and days off, but my Dad did teach me you have to take care of your customers.

What I also found out was every Saturday about 11:30 the store would get very busy, right before quittin time. Then I started keeping the store open by myself from 12:00 to 4:00 on Saturdays to make a little extra money. When I did that, surprisingly enough, at 11:30 there were hardly any customers, but about 3:30, the store would be packed. And then you get the call as you are walking out the door that some guy (15 minutes away) needs a spark plug for his lawnmower and wants you to wait on him (true story).

The word gets around when someone is willing to help out customers and take that extra effort to work around other people's schedule, which is good, but there are some people that will wait to the last minute and expect someone else to put their life on hold, cause they wanted to finish watching their tv show. The people that take advantage of others good nature is what is what spoils it for those who really appreciate a helping hand.

Another issue that came up all too often was that when Dad or me would take that extra effort for customers, some would still go down the street to another store sometimes to save $1.00 on a part. That was probably my Dad's biggest pet peeve. So much for loyalty, he would say.

what store did ya'll own? Pryor is full of good people willing to go the extra mile to help you out.... i was born there, lived there, and still have family living there..... i know the mentallity of Pryor folks (and i guess its like mine), but alot of places arnt like that anymore, which at times get frustrating and dissappointing........also when i help someone out and it inconvences me, i never let the other person/s know, just because i dont want them to feel like they're a burdden...
ahh,,, if everyone thought like Pryor folks this would be a nice world indeed...

[rauto13]

Originally Posted by 68 short step

what store did ya'll own? Pryor is full of good people willing to go the extra mile to help you out.... i was born there, lived there, and still have family living there..... i know the mentallity of Pryor folks (and i guess its like mine), but alot of places arnt like that anymore, which at times get frustrating and dissappointing........also when i help someone out and it inconvences me, i never let the other person/s know, just because i dont want them to feel like they're a burdden...
ahh,,, if everyone thought like Pryor folks this would be a nice world indeed...

Ross Auto in Salina OK

It was started by Great Grandad as a gas station in 1924.

And thanks for the compliment bout Pryor people, cuz I are one.

[nyncompute]

Just wanted to add where I work we not only stay open 24/7, we'll provide our service at anytime regardless of what we are doing or have planned..glad to help

[jacobs]

Sorry to say, customer service of any kind, automotive or otherwise, is almost a thing of the past. Trying to get help even during business hours is like pulling teeth especially on a product already purchased. I'd like to turn the calendar back about 50 or more years when businesses really cared about their customers.

[kyull67]

I'll let our little friends do the talking.
P.S. I love my Mar-k bed and the sweet crate they sent it in.

[LUV2XCLR8]

I have a vendor on this board that I use alot, he was willing to meet me at his
shop ON HIS DAY OFF so I could pick up my parts as I was passing through. I
will never forget that, not to mention the increased in orders he got from me.
IMHO customer service like I mentioned is what drives future sales. My $.02

[SCOTI]

While it would ultimately be more convenient for 68 short step to be able to pick-up a bed on a Sat, I don't really see it as "poor customer service" that they won't open their doors outside of regularly established hours.

It's quality of life. Perhaps their employees work hard all week (during their regular hours of operation) to offer the best they can in customer service & deserve the weekend off to be w/their family or enjoy time for their 'hobby'.

Take a day off from work & drive up w/a buddy or loved one. You'll still save the $$ from shipping costs (as long as the vehicle you're in gets decent mpg) & invest in a relationship w/someone you care about. Win-win.

[fourty1]

you know the rules going in,,... so what's the problem...
8-5 monday - friday is m-f 8-5..... not wanting to sound mean,..
but at least you can talk to someone, verses a phone menu,...
customer service went the way of most American jobs.....

[corn]

All I can say is just be glad you have the option of driving to pick up the parts. Where Im at, I have to have everything shipped.

I know how you feel, thats a lot of money & I know you arent saying that they are a horrible business because they arent open weekends. What you are doing is venting & venting is a good thing...

[70cst]

There is a lot of good that we can learn from this thread.
1) If we want to pick up items on a week end we should ask before we purchase.

2) Some vendors are more willing or able to work with your schedule than others.

3) If you want the best parts that is available than sometimes we will have to endure a few incontinences.

4) Some vendors are open M-F only, some are M-S, and some have flexible hours depending on the circumstances.

5) For the vendors who really take ownership of this hobby, they are more likely to be flexible in their schedules.

6) We must always remember...how many times these vendors get calls asking for extended times to open their stores.

7) Both sides have made good points.

8) We must always remember...how many times these vendors get calls asking for extended times to open their stores.

9) Both sides have made good points.

10) If this is the worst thing to ever happen to us then we will be very fortunate.

[Shane]

Sorry ... but I think it's plain ol' chicken$hit of someone to come on such a large internet forum and bad mouth a company concerning their posted policies. It's not their fault that someone didn't read what is clearly stated on their web page concerning their business hours.

http://www.mar-k.com/contact_us_at_mar-k_.html

Sorry, I have to support Mar-K on this one ...

[piecesparts]

I didn't mean to infer that you were wrong, BUT when I ran the Farm Store I used to have Farmer Geeknoids call me at all hours. If they were worth their salt, then I would help them out, but if they were A$$E$ then they lost BIG. Mar-K is supported as a good company, I have yet to use them.

[special-K]

Pissy?I just laid it out for the one that`s ranting and not taking everything into account.
I failed to mention the posibility of his running into an accident or other jamb-up.Or,a breakdown on his way.There`s always the posibility that someone could come to accomodate him and be hung-up or flat-out stood-up.
This "ranter" made the "retard" comment which stirred me a bit.But with restraint I simply laid it out as plain as I could.He was only showing his lack of comprehension skills by stating that the only reason it would eat a whole in someones day bigger than the actual loading time would be due to them being retarded.
In case you can`t tell,I think before (or as) I type.This guy has publically posted a grievence against an upstanding business that happens to support the very board we type on.It`s great when someone goes out of their way for others.But,anyone that expects it must have been spoiled.The world owes us nothing.I own a business and I am very accomodating.But,I must say,most of those who require it don`t seem to appreciate it and they`re usually the ones that want something for nothing.That type won`t cause me to withdraw my graces.But,it`s something I`ve come to expect.Most people that try to beat the price down,then want extras,have been the hardest to collect from,if not flat out ripped me off.

[Liz]

i find half this post pissy...

Ya know Im not saying this because Mar-k does help support this site, so dont throw that one out next.. but ..
As nice as it is for a vendor to open when it is convenient for you to get there, the coin has two sides. Why don't you just go ahead and take a day off of work and go if it is so important? Your asking people to take time away from their family, loved ones and who knows what all else. Why not take the time off yourself and go when they are open? Do you ask the mom n pop grocery in town to open at 4 am so you can get cake mix?

I'm sorry but opening for someone who needs a part that is an emergancy( starter, fuel pump etc) when your stuck on the side of the road, is a bit different then opening to pick up a part you want.. big or not. I have seen the small town attitude ( folks help each other out, are nice etc) brought up a few times.. we live in a small town and the main thing I see is respect, friendly people and FAMILIES... you respect all those around you, you treat them as you wish to be treated and FAMILY comes first...

Sorry but with my "small town" mentality, I disagree with this thread fully.. if you want the part go there when they are open or ship it..

[Liz]

thats it........ quit the pissing match now. Grow up and act like adults. If you can not post without fighting, the logout button is an option.

[49studebaker]

You go girl!!!!

[chevyboy55]

Time to lock this thread yet?

[Liz]

Originally Posted by chevyboy55

Time to lock this thread yet?

I think I would had, with my reply if it was.. but thanks for asking

[MAR-Ktech]

I am the owner of Mar-K writing for Mar-Ktech. We have been silent during this exchange but we appreciate the comments, both pro and con about our company and policies. All our customers' needs are important to us and obviously if we do not meet their needs frequently, we go out of business. Since being on this forum we have made a lot of improvements, some subtle and some significant, due specifically to comments and complaints expressed here. As a company we do pay attention.

We struggle daily with the balance between being totally accommodating to the customer and being totally uncaring, and find middle ground that works best for our customers and us. Until a few years ago, we were open for business Saturdays. We occasionally sold something, we met some really great people and discussed their various projects, and I think they liked being able to come in on their day off. On Saturdays we also have been stood up by customers, robbed, had employees call in 'sick', taken bad checks, etc, etc.

At some point we looked at who we are and what is important. We are a manufacturing company that makes a product we love and are proud of. Our focus remains on building top quality products and many believe we do a pretty good job of that. Several dealers resell our product and their focus is on working directly with the customer/user and they do a great job of customer service at that level. We encourage customers who need great one on one service to work with our dealers in their area.

All your comments are important to us and carefully considered. We hope to continue to be your supplier of quality products for your truck.

Mar-Ktech

[BUDDY]

Originally Posted by MAR-Ktech

I am the owner of Mar-K writing for Mar-Ktech. We have been silent during this exchange but we appreciate the comments, both pro and con about our company and policies. All our customers' needs are important to us and obviously if we do not meet their needs frequently, we go out of business. Since being on this forum we have made a lot of improvements, some subtle and some significant, due specifically to comments and complaints expressed here. As a company we do pay attention.

We struggle daily with the balance between being totally accommodating to the customer and being totally uncaring, and find middle ground that works best for our customers and us. Until a few years ago, we were open for business Saturdays. We occasionally sold something, we met some really great people and discussed their various projects, and I think they liked being able to come in on their day off. On Saturdays we also have been stood up by customers, robbed, had employees call in 'sick', taken bad checks, etc, etc.

At some point we looked at who we are and what is important. We are a manufacturing company that makes a product we love and are proud of. Our focus remains on building top quality products and many believe we do a pretty good job of that. Several dealers resell our product and their focus is on working directly with the customer/user and they do a great job of customer service at that level. We encourage customers who need great one on one service to work with our dealers in their area.

All your comments are important to us and carefully considered. We hope to continue to be your supplier of quality products for your truck.

Mar-Ktech

Why not be open Tuesday-Saturday? Still get two days off & customer's can come in on their day off.

Just a suggestion.

Later,
Buddy

[Sonny]

Originally Posted by MAR-Ktech

...Until a few years ago, we were open for business Saturdays. We occasionally sold something, we met some really great people and discussed their various projects, and I think they liked being able to come in on their day off. On Saturdays we also have been stood up by customers, robbed, had employees call in 'sick', taken bad checks, etc, etc.

At some point we looked at who we are and what is important. We are a manufacturing company that makes a product we love and are proud of. Our focus remains on building top quality products and many believe we do a pretty good job of that. Several dealers resell our product and their focus is on working directly with the customer/user and they do a great job of customer service at that level. We encourage customers who need great one on one service to work with our dealers in their area. ...

Come guys, he addressed being open on Saturdays and even gave you an alternative should you need further assistance.

Sonny

[Mudder]

Here's what I did. I was in a same sort of situation a few years ago when I bought my cowl hood. It was in Kansas City. Five hours away. I had a neighbor that has a truck drive up there and get it for me and deliver it for me to the body shop. It cost me just over 100 bucks after buying his gas and giving him some money for his time. He enjoyed doing it.