Retailing review from Reading ... Page 3
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.

Access to this depot did not present a problem and the overall exterior presentation was in an acceptable condition. The parking facilities were a little bit limited.
I had to wait several minutes before being served and the guy who eventually came through to reception was obviously under pressure and in a hurry as his manner was short, sharp and to the point. To be fair the branch was busy at the time of my visit.
Having enquired about prices I was given two options - a GT budget for £ 61.50 and a Marshall for £ 57.50 and informed they were the only two brands available in the size I needed. That was the end of our conversation and the guy then left the reception area. The customer waiting area and reception were just about at an acceptable standard but a little attention would not go amiss.
Taking everything into consideration this is yet another depot that I would return to if buying tyres.

The usual high standard of exterior presentation at this leading retailer was evident and both access and parking facilities were also very good.
On venturing inside I found the customer waiting area and reception to be of a lower standard. If fact the condition of the facilities were decidedly shabby and untidy.
However, I was welcomed by a staff member who was friendly, attentive and informative. He listened to my request for tyre prices then pointed out that in his opinion a Barum budget brand at £ 57.50 was my best option. He stated, “The Barum is a quality budget tyres that is competitively priced and ideal for the Corsa.” No other brands were offered and it was clear that this guy was pushing the Barum heavily.
Staff were dressed appropriately and once again I would consider returning to National Tyres & Autocare to buy tyres in the future.