What do you expect from your local equestrian shop?

Number one - COMMUNICATION. When I order something I want to know when it has been ordered, when it will be in and keep being updated.

2/ Not extortionate prices, I don't mind paying a bit more to support my local shop rather than an online provider, but some shops are ridiculously over-priced.

3/ I like to buy quality rugs/jodhs etc that last yrs - So I guess I prefer the higher end of the price bracket.

4/ Staff that know what they are doing but leave you to look around the shop in peace unless you need some help.

5/ Stocking obvious things you need in a hurry - veterinary items, poultice boots, hairnets, etc, etc.

6/ Good layout so you know how to find everything
 
Ditto re helpful and polite staff I have a tack shop near me in West London, won't say the name but anyone reading this near here will know who it is, most people from my yard just won't go there any more and will drive miles the other way to go somewhere else as the women that run it are some of the most miserable, grumpy unhelpful people I have ever known in any type of shop! and I am the CUSTOMER for gods sake! They won't do refunds only a credit note so you HAVE to go back there, if something doesn't fit for instance even if THEY have advised on size they won't take it back and give a refund!
I will only go there if desperate and only for feed or bedding. Oh and don't even THINK of going there near closing time, the black looks you will get will haunt you for weeks!

Thankfully a new shop has opened in Chalfont St Peter and is run by a really really nice lady she is knowlegeable, has a great range of products, in all price ranges and always has time for a chat and to ask how you/your horse is doing. ( oh and doesn't stock everything in either pink or purple ) Although the shop is small she is hoping to move in the new year and will have bigger premisis which will also stock feed and bedding so great as far as i am concerned I will never have to go back to the other godforsaken place again!

I am willing to support her business as she is kind friendly and will order anything in that she doesn't have in stock, I don't even mind paying a bit extra after all you may get things cheaper on line but you still have to pay postage, have to be in to sign for the thing and if it isn't right have to package it all up and trog to the post office to send it back then wait ages for a refund or exchange of goods.
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Thanks ever so much for your responces, they have been very helpful indeed and i will def be putting some into practice.

Also thanks for the well wishes with our nomination, i will let you know how we get on.
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