Retailing review from Reading ... Page 2
This month's retailing report focuses upon Reading in Berkshire and all depots visited are judged out of a maximum of five points for each of the 10 sections. Our mystery customer asked for prices for a 185/55R 15 82H tyre to fit at 2004 Vauxhall Corsa 1.2. Each depot is scored on a number of areas of professionalism and accompanied by a general brief summary of each individual visit.

As this depot was located almost adjacent to Kwik Fit it shared the reasonable access but parking facilities were a little limited although it also shared the benefit of a car park opposite. The exterior of the building was also in good condition.
On venturing inside I was immediately greeted by a staff member who although appearing not over friendly, was polite and attentive to my request for tyre prices. He offered a Pirelli at £70.50 pointing out that this tyre was on a special offer at the moment as the normal price is £84.96 thus representing a 20 per cent reduction. He considered this to be his most attractive offer but stated that he could also provide budget tyres if I preferred them and stated that he had in stock a number of brands including Hankook, Nankang and Falken for individual prices between £50 and £60. However he was keen to endorse the value of the Pirelli special promotion. The reception area and customer waiting room were both in an acceptable condition and I saw no reason not to return to buy tyres from this depot.

Even though this depot was tucked away on a small industrial estate, location and access was okay and with an open car parking area serving a number of business, parking facilities were of a good standard.
The exterior of the building was is in an acceptable condition including the signage, which was small but easily identifiable. Unfortunately inside the depot was not so good as the reception cum customer waiting area was a little on the shabby side.
However the guy who served me (who I believe was the owner) came across as very friendly, helpful and enthusiastic to help. On listening to my request he provided a good choice of brands including a Firestone at £ 63.45, Continental at £68.15, Kumho at £ 49.35 and a budget at £ 44.65.
He made a particular point of recommending the Kumho stating, “It is a good mid-range tyre which is preferred and used by our staff and is only marginally more expensive than a budget brand.”