I've seen a lot of people discussing their experiences with GW's occassionaly pushy sales tactics their staff enforces. I'm not saying all do, and there are a number of great members of staff I am sure, but I was curious how bad it has been?

My example was that, in a West Yorkshire GW (no specifics) I was literally quized upon being there for a few seconds, and immediately asked 'hey, how are you? Looking for something in particular?' Me and the girlfriend had actually betted on how quick this would happen, but even I had given them 15 seconds to do that Thanksfully after that, we were only asked once more, but by a different guy, so perhaps that doesn't count

So how fast are GW boys where you are in acting out their pre-programmed astarte sales training?

Note: This is not intended to be a GW bashing thread, just one where we can discuss such occurrences in a humorous manner

In Manchester it is pretty much within the first 10 seconds: Gotta hand it to 'em, they are real efficient

Those bastards still can't outrun .38 rounds yet.

J.Black wrote:In Manchester it is pretty much within the first 10 seconds: Gotta hand it to 'em, they are real efficient

I wasn't gonna mention the store, but, uncannily, I'm on about the same store! Tzeentch works in mysterious ways.....

Oh they try and be friend me, and ask what I am after. Will only say 'Hi, and i know what I am after`

At that point their dead to me and I ignore them. Always works.

Am sure there are good sales persons, but have been told their are innocent people in jail and havent seen them either.

Chowderhead wrote:Those bastards still can't outrun .38 rounds yet.

I think GW is breeding salesman that can.
But I only went to a GW once. They pushed just a little bit. But my mom was with me so they dont bother you much.

Around my area, there are only two GW store, and they're pretty small. You'll get greeted by the staff the instant you cross the threshold, and they'll always immediately ask you if you're looking for something in particular.

And this is not aggressive or predatory, or whatever other negative connotation someone might infer. This is excellent customer service.

In another life, I spent a lot of time working in retail, and this is exactly how I'd train my employees. The greeting at the door is just friendly, and it alerts the staff to every person entering the location (and both elements help reduce theft). And asking someone immediately if they're looking for something specific is just good customer service. The last time I went in (it's been a while because I try to avoid paying Canadian prices) I answered "yes..." and rattled off a grocery list. Within minutes, I had a pile of stuff waiting for me at the counter, and my entire trip took me less than five minutes.

...however, I did have an employee try to sell me a Monolith, to which I declined, explaining that I already had two, and they were almost competitively unplayable in the new codex. To which the guy tried to start an argument with me about why I needed a 3rd Monolith.

Dammit Chowder, I almost wrecked my work PC with expelled coffee there.

I still remember the funniest thing I was I went in for a box of Chaos Terminators, he then tried to sell me a £200, along with another £60 one, and wouldn't take no for an answer. It just got damn annoying.

10 seconds. I bring dual riot shields.

About six seconds. The store is really, really small (it's in a mall and wedged between two other stores), so you get a GW employee on you within six seconds maximum. If there's no one else in there, like if you come in on a weekday before about 4 or 5, they will instantly see you and start talking to you.

Oh and in the spirit of the OP, usually within 10 secs I suppose, at least one will break off from whatever they are doing and say hi, or do you know what you are after.

Morathi's Darkest Sin wrote:Oh and in the spirit of the OP, usually within 10 secs I suppose, at least one will break off from whatever they are doing and say hi, or do you know what you are after.

Cheers for the on topic post Can anyone top 6 seconds however?

Morathi's Darkest Sin wrote:Oh and in the spirit of the OP, usually within 10 secs I suppose, at least one will break off from whatever they are doing and say hi, or do you know what you are after.

They should... it is called retail service. It is also a tactic to prevent theft. If you are not there to buy something and can't tell them what you are interested in buying and have no questions to help you figure out what you may want to buy or even learn about... why are you in the store?

Considering children shoplift like crazy, and people steal from these stores frequently, I have no problem with customer service being helpful even when I am there to buy something routine or mundane.

I wish more stores did the same as I go to stores all the time when I want help and no one will help me.

Didn't say they shouldn't?

Was responding the second time for TCJ as I realised I'd followed into the murky realm of off topic.

Morathi's Darkest Sin wrote:Didn't say they shouldn't?

Was responding the second time for TCJ as I realised I'd followed into the murky realm of off topic.

Appreciate the choice Anyway, the topic isn't about the ethics/validity of the practice, just the best 0-to-sales pitch time

Staff at my store aren't too bad. They'll ask if you want help if you're clearly confused or after about a minute or so.

There's usually one sitting idly by a beginner's paint station that's conviniently placed facing the door. They'll perk up as soon as they see you enter and be out of their seat if you move towards any of the shelves to start sprouting the lines. Even if your just going to the back of the shop to the gaming tables you'll get a hello, but they won't press you much futher if you've got a case. Oddly it seems their memory sucks, one week their ignoring you, whilst the next their trailing you about the shop asking you questions and agreeing with everything you say (which I would point out is bloody annoying to no end). I guess if I want to browse in piece next time I should bring my case along (which I think signifies to them that you're already hooked on the plastic crack, no need to entice you anymore), least then I wouldn't have to go theorugh the obligitory few minutes of sales pitching.

Last time I was in though they seemed to leave me alone. The staff member on sales duty had sold be a pair of Shadowswords the month before and I think it inclined him to think I was too skint now to be worth heckling. =P

The best way I've found of scaring them into their hovels is to bring a woman along. It doesn't always work on the ones that have at least some form of a social life, but the others are just so dumbfounded that they scurry back to the edges of the shop.

I'd also note the record will depend on if the shop is empty. I've walked into the local store as I often go in at odd times (before school ends on weekdays) and that is often instant.

Probably as the poor fella is bored, nothing worse than till watching in an empty store and no jobs to do.

Morathi's Darkest Sin wrote:I'd also note the record will depend on if the shop is empty. I've walked into the local store as I often go in at odd times (before school ends on weekdays) and that is often instant.

Probably as the poor fella is bored, nothing worse than till watching in an empty store and no jobs to do.

Very good point. To any further contibutors, your experience must have had a number of other people there Any value above 2 should do

Chowderhead wrote:Those bastards still can't outrun .38 rounds yet.

With the cost of ammo these days, I'm glad I bought a .45... I only need to shoot once.

Its better for a store to approach its customers than for staff to ignore them, but I do agree that asking leading questions can be annoying.
'What armies do you collect? Oh you play only 40k, well can I interest you in our new release that you don't collect???'

All credit to the staff in my local though, they recognise me and don't ask twice!

My store's an FLGS rather than a GW, but someone usually asks whether you need help as you cross the threshold. The cash register is right next to the door, so someone's always there to greet the people who come in.

Although I think that GW should work on predicting when people are going to come in, so they can call up and ask whether you need help with anything before you set foot in the store.

Wyrmalla wrote:The best way I've found of scaring them into their hovels is to bring a woman along. It doesn't always work on the ones that have at least some form of a social life, but the others are just so dumbfounded that they scurry back to the edges of the shop.

They're the boldest coolest guys around until there's a scary vagina in the room.

Locclo wrote:My store's an FLGS rather than a GW, but someone usually asks whether you need help as you cross the threshold. The cash register is right next to the door, so someone's always there to greet the people who come in.

Although I think that GW should work on predicting when people are going to come in, so they can call up and ask whether you need help with anything before you set foot in the store.

The store I go to has a large glass front and a bit of a walk from the parking lot to get to it. If you are bringing stuff in with you to game, sometimes one of the people working will get the door for you and ask "What brings you in today" right as you cross the doorway.

I really dislike when they push the selling hard. I went in there for an order I'd asked for, and ended up with the guy trying to sell me Island of Blood, White Dwarf, Paints, Superglue..

If I'm a repeat customer who's ordered in 5 specific models, I suspect I'm not going to go "Ohshit, these things need *painting* now?". So it was just.. Patronising, time-wasting and annoying. There's only one guy who's quite so dogged as that there, though.

It also makes me dubious of starting up any conversations or asking for gaming advice; I worry they'll just immediately opt for the most expensive option to push at me.

That said, I suspect if I asked the guy how many Pyrovores I should take in my army, it might be worth it for amusement's sake.

As soon as i enter the store, and no i dont think its good customer service either, if i want some guy to help me chose my mini, or i am unsure what i want, then i will approach them.
It is acceptable for them to be helpfull but trying to suggest more expensive things that have nothing to do with what i am after really does take the ****.

Sorry this annoys me so much that i`m naming names.

Glasgow GW. Big store up here. I walked in one saturday 3 o`clockish, the place was mobbed. Now as a little hobby i start to count when i step in the doors these days, they usually get to 5, this guy was on me in 3. I tried to be polite but these days i can only handle about 3 questions worth of pestering. I ended up saying "just go away please". Thankfully he did.

I spent many years working in retail and i understand how it works but it just annoys the hell out of me as a customer.

To be honest I like being greeted as I step in (I'm been going awhile so I get greeted by name)

I mostly talk to the manger who's a cool guy and we talk about stuff other then GW stuff. He still asks me if I need the latest issue of WD and I always politely decline.

To be 100% honest I don't seem to have a bad GW shop expect for the few douche bags who are A holes but there have only been a few over the last 15 years.

I love me a good GW bashing but my *locale* GW is not the problem.

One thing I can say about the Echelon Village store is that the person who runs it is an absolutely nice guy and isn't pushy at all, at least not with the regulars. If you have any questions, you'll definitely get a ton of info on what product would work for what you're looking to do for a conversion or something. As a result, I make a point to make some of my purchases there.

Honestly, I can't bag on the GW employee's too much. This poor guy has to do the "One Man Store" thing, which IMO is absolutely terrible, and makes things incredibly hard on him.

The amount that he has to put up with, and the way the store has to be run just isn't an easy job - so I say cut these guys some slack.

As soon as I step foot inside. They usually ask me what I'm after or what I've been painting. I usually just reply that I've been painting space marines and I know what I'm looking for. I haven't really been painting space marines I just tell them that to end the conversation as that's the expected response from somebody my age. SPEHCE MAHRINES R T3H BESTEST IN T3H UNIVERSE!

The folks over at Gamestop are the same:
"do you have a rewards card?"
"do you want to buy a rewards card?"
"do you want a Gameinformer subscription?"
"do you want these 3 used games?"
I just want to pick up what I came in for, hand you money and leave!!!

TheChaoticJournalist wrote:

J.Black wrote:In Manchester it is pretty much within the first 10 seconds: Gotta hand it to 'em, they are real efficient

I wasn't gonna mention the store, but, uncannily, I'm on about the same store! Tzeentch works in mysterious ways.....

Thinking of Tzeentch... My lovely wife bought the new Herald of Tzeentch model for me this Christmas; true to form she was offered pretty much everything else in the shop when all she wanted was to get that one thing. She doesn't really want to go back now

I don't really have a problem with the people doing the upselling; the Redshirts have a job to do and they have to do it in a specific way. Pointing out that my main army is SoB usually shuts them up as there is pretty much nothing in the shop for them to sell to me (and usually some mouthbreather hovering over the internet terminal)!

In the Square One store in Mississauga, they usually ask "what brings you in today?" within 30 seconds or less.

Went to the US GW HQ in Memphis a few weeks back, and my friend and I were greeted at the door in a very friendly manner, after taking pictures outside with the nice Space Marine standing guard. The guy working that day jokingly asked about us having trouble finding the place, as we had called twice and driven right past it (it is truly hard to find the first time) and we didn't start talking about minis for a couple of minutes. He was a very pleasant individual and we had a great time visiting. We actually spent a lot of time talking about things OTHER than Warhammer-living in Memphis, our jobs, would it be worth it for my friend to move there with his family, what the school systems are like, etc etc. We BS'd and had good discussions, got some modeling tips on things we saw in the display cases and we both want to go back for their birthday bash in April. Despite the horror stories I've heard of GW stores, I've only had great experiences (2 different stores). I'd be happy to give a +1 to the bunker in Memphis. We were also told the casting is usually done in the back at that building (at least for plastic) and if something was missing off the shelf during the regular work week, they could usually run back into the factory portion and cast it right up for you. I'm excited to go back. Was going to try to stop in today while on the road for work, but it was sadly many hours out of my way.

They can run fater than me when my arms are full of stolen vintage space hulk goodness.

As with all good Australians:
There is no point to enter a gw store in the last 15 years.

redshirts just too aggressive. Once I attempted a troll by saying explaining I was just starting the hobby and wanted to build a scout SM army: all scout troops, scout bikers.

They tried to sell me a bloodthirster.

However last time I loitered looking at the displays outside GW Woden for about 15min (store was empty) no one lifted a finger.




Having said all this; my favourite GW store front experience was Jimbocho (Tokyo), no redshirts to pounce; one customer asked me where i was from.


Worst experience: Brussels. Aggressive (seemed to be speeding) redshirt. Wanted to know how many hours of DOW2 I had played (On entering the door). Left after about 30 seconds of interrogation.

My local GW is also my store of choice. The redshirts are always quick with a " what brings you in today?" and usually more interested to hear about a painting project or an army build in progress than to make a fast upsale. Granted, it Is a Bunker, so most people coming in are there for a game or gaming event rather than just to shop or hobby.

Standard reply is a polite "Just browsing" which is enough to get folks to back off in all cases.

I really don't see what the issue is here. So, the employees ask you if there's anything you're after, and greet you when you walk in, and that annoys you?

This happens in pretty much every retail store. A lot of clothes shops, most technology stores.

Games Workshop is a wargaming store. Where you play in the store. It's a social hobby, requiring you to interact with other people. The people there are mainly trying to be friendly and engage with you, which is 90% of my experiences in GW. Yes, their ultimate goal is to sell you things. Games Workshop is a business and that's the only reason it exists - let's not fool ourselves here.

Yes, I've had one guy once try and sell me White Dwarf; but you really can't blame these guys for it. And I've had people suggest models for me to buy. They're told to get people to buy things - and from what I hear, how they treat stores and their staff members depends on how they treat the store and its staff members. When Games Workshop breeds that kind of atmospheres, you can't really blame the guys in the store for trying to keep their jobs. They're just humans, after all, like the rest of us.

I think the staff in my local Games Workshop (Portsmouth) are great. They have tried to get me to get a few things, sure, but that's just what you have to expect when their job is to sell things in a store. Once they've gotten to know me, I can just have a chat about tactics, conversions, cool minis and the lore / fluff.

They're the front line guys who have no say in anything to do with Finecast, on how the upper management tell them to run the store, they don't get paid very much and just have a job like most of the rest of us do, and do it the best they can. In my opinion, they don't deserve to be ragged on for asking people who come in the store "Is there anything in particular you're looking for?" or at the till when you're paying: "Need any modelling supplies?"

I think the stores around me hate me

To them I'm that weirdo who says very little and stares nonchalantly on the product wall. They might ask me if I'm in need of anything and I'll mumble something about browsing. There would be a brief moment of silence and then they'll go find another customer

Can't remeber who asked it but the reason some people might be in the store that aren't there to buy would be to window shop. I'm married and have kids all I'm surrounded by women at home and unfortunately I wasn't able to turn my daughters into nerds. Ah well what can you do. So I like to visit with like minded people and check out new stuff and see if anyone is playing/painting anything. You know just mingle.

As far as topic goes I haven't been to a GW store yet. The nearest one is like 4 hours away. With the price of gas that's not happening lol. I don't mind being greeted when I enter but I don't like it when it feels like their drooling for the sell like my dogs do waiting for their food in the morning. It feels more oppressive then friendly and ruins the mood. I understand how they feel, I worked retail many years ago. It's boring. Your in uncomfortable cloths and chances are they probably don't want to be pestering you either. I know I hated it working in electronics in sears. I don't like to annoy people. Golden rule and all that.

Ps if any GW guys are reading this. Sacromento could use a GW store. Most of the time when I want to make an order from indy store the answer I get is no unless I'm spending 400 plus at a time. Wouldn't mind some GW love up this way

our ones in norwich are very very good, however the quality of the gaming nights fell quite rapidly which led our group to form its own club, i have not been recently, but i have been told they are getting alot better (gw i mean)

The ones in Stockholm weren very friendly, they let me look at everything in peace and only came to me after about 4 minutes.

In Wiesbaden (germany) it took the guy less than ten seconds to greet me and shake hands, but he only started trying to sell stuff when I took the boxes from the shelves and looked at them.
But of course he wanted to sell me a stompa for 100€....

Voodoo Boyz wrote:One thing I can say about the Echelon Village store is that the person who runs it is an absolutely nice guy and isn't pushy at all, at least not with the regulars. If you have any questions, you'll definitely get a ton of info on what product would work for what you're looking to do for a conversion or something. As a result, I make a point to make some of my purchases there.

Honestly, I can't bag on the GW employee's too much. This poor guy has to do the "One Man Store" thing, which IMO is absolutely terrible, and makes things incredibly hard on him.

The amount that he has to put up with, and the way the store has to be run just isn't an easy job - so I say cut these guys some slack.

Similiar experiences from the same store. I have nothing bad to say about the new manager there. I only show my face once in a while there, as I'm a little out of area now. He smiles, is polite, and likes to engage folks in conversation when its slow / medium busy. I don't find him, pushy, more reasonible. During purchases he makes the standard, paints, glue, brushes offer which should be standard.

He's asked a couple times about my army unit choices as they are not considered "standard" for his shop. I've explained, I play mainly at tourneys, but I'm not going to shove that in peoples faces, and that I tone my list down dramatically for 1 off play. He's appreciated that in the past as nothing makes locals disgruntled like having the "fresh face" stomp their Space Marines into the ground. He has used me stopping by in the past as an opportunity to talk to gamers about my painting techniques as no one there plays fully painted armies, along with pointing out conversations, and creativity with list design. I want them to do well because I like their hobby. But given opportunity I still prefer my LFGS.

BrookM wrote:Standard reply is a polite "Just browsing" which is enough to get folks to back off in all cases.

I also use "I'm fine" or "I'm alright" sometimes like that. Hasn't failed to work yet, even in places like Gamespot where it has actually gotten me to completely avoid the member card speech thing.

My two local stores are decent - Nottingham Central and Warhammer World. They are not really pushy and normally say the usual stuff. I work in retail too and I do the usual greeting, ask how they are today and if they need any help don't hesitate to ask. Normally works great for me.

The only strange incident I had was at Nottingham Central - I picked up 3 pots of paints and was asked what I was painting and I told him - a unit from Flames of War. Didn't look too impressed but quickly told him I have Tau to paint as well ;-)

Seeing as I tend to go in on weekdays when no one else is around I normally get one of the redshirts starting a conversation within about 20 seconds of crossing the threshold. And if I'm honest, I think I'd be more put off if they didn't start asking me 'what do you collect' or 'what are you looking for' than I am if they try pushing sales. If they just sat there unmoving while I got what I came for, only speaking to ask for my money at the til I'd probably only shop online. Instead its nice for someone to take an interest (even if its a fake interest) in what projects I'm working on

I may just be crazy, but I like the 'personal touch' feeling to it. Maybe the staff are just good here, but they tend to be able to talk about the army I'm interested in and give painting advice rather than try overly hard to sell me things I don't want. They may mention in passing models or paints that I might be interested in or that they've just been working on, but not to the extent of offering me a Baneblade for my necrons. Maybe I've been lucky, but I quite like staff interacting as long as they respect what I'm there to buy

Think i may have the record,
Every time and I do mean EVERY time I walk in the store i get the following from the manager
"hey Ross, what are you going to buy today then?"

azazel the cat wrote:Around my area, there are only two GW store, and they're pretty small. You'll get greeted by the staff the instant you cross the threshold, and they'll always immediately ask you if you're looking for something in particular.

And this is not aggressive or predatory, or whatever other negative connotation someone might infer. This is excellent customer service.

In another life, I spent a lot of time working in retail, and this is exactly how I'd train my employees. The greeting at the door is just friendly, and it alerts the staff to every person entering the location (and both elements help reduce theft). And asking someone immediately if they're looking for something specific is just good customer service. The last time I went in (it's been a while because I try to avoid paying Canadian prices) I answered "yes..." and rattled off a grocery list. Within minutes, I had a pile of stuff waiting for me at the counter, and my entire trip took me less than five minutes.

This, greeting a customer as they walk in the shop is good practice, a smile and a hi there lets them know that you are aware they are there and have been noticed, especially useful if you are busy at the time.

Its when they immediately follow up with sales patter that I lose patience, I have over 10 years of experience in sales, I know the tricks, but I like to be given time to draw breath and get my bearings before engaging in conversation. Others may be happy to start chatting about purchases right away and will become irritated if you leave them alone too long, and it is being able to read each person and make that call that makes a good salesperson, something I seldom encounter in any GW.

dwfait wrote:I really don't see what the issue is here. So, the employees ask you if there's anything you're after, and greet you when you walk in, and that annoys you?

This happens in pretty much every retail store. A lot of clothes shops, most technology stores.

Games Workshop is a wargaming store. Where you play in the store. It's a social hobby, requiring you to interact with other people. The people there are mainly trying to be friendly and engage with you, which is 90% of my experiences in GW. Yes, their ultimate goal is to sell you things. Games Workshop is a business and that's the only reason it exists - let's not fool ourselves here.

Yes, I've had one guy once try and sell me White Dwarf; but you really can't blame these guys for it. And I've had people suggest models for me to buy. They're told to get people to buy things - and from what I hear, how they treat stores and their staff members depends on how they treat the store and its staff members. When Games Workshop breeds that kind of atmospheres, you can't really blame the guys in the store for trying to keep their jobs. They're just humans, after all, like the rest of us.

I think the staff in my local Games Workshop (Portsmouth) are great. They have tried to get me to get a few things, sure, but that's just what you have to expect when their job is to sell things in a store. Once they've gotten to know me, I can just have a chat about tactics, conversions, cool minis and the lore / fluff.

They're the front line guys who have no say in anything to do with Finecast, on how the upper management tell them to run the store, they don't get paid very much and just have a job like most of the rest of us do, and do it the best they can. In my opinion, they don't deserve to be ragged on for asking people who come in the store "Is there anything in particular you're looking for?" or at the till when you're paying: "Need any modelling supplies?"

Sorry dude, but that is very naive of you. They are not mainly trying to be friendly and engage with you, they are mainly trying to sell you things, and engaging with you and being friendly are a means to that end. You are right, it IS a business, and nobody should forget that, but I have seldom seen more obvious and "by rote" sales techniques than those used by GW employees. Nothing wtong with trying to upsell either, but any half decent salesperson will tell you that you don't sell a product, you sell the products benefits to the consumer, so the product ultimately sells itself, as you have justified the reasons that the customer needs to have to put their hand in their pocket. Just going "would you like a copy of White Dwarf?" at point of sale is not upselling, its playing percentages.

timetowaste85 wrote:Went to the US GW HQ in Memphis a few weeks back, and my friend and I were greeted at the door in a very friendly manner, after taking pictures outside with the nice Space Marine standing guard. The guy working that day jokingly asked about us having trouble finding the place, as we had called twice and driven right past it (it is truly hard to find the first time) and we didn't start talking about minis for a couple of minutes. He was a very pleasant individual and we had a great time visiting. We actually spent a lot of time talking about things OTHER than Warhammer-living in Memphis, our jobs, would it be worth it for my friend to move there with his family, what the school systems are like, etc etc. We BS'd and had good discussions, got some modeling tips on things we saw in the display cases and we both want to go back for their birthday bash in April.

This sounds like my kind of guy, he's built up a rapport with you, developed a relationship, and that has resulted in you being a happy customer. I bet he has a lot more fun at work than these scripted, by-the-book robot GW employees too.

To be honest, I have no problem with any of the blackshirts I have encountered at the Houston area GW brick-and-mortars (and I've been to a fair few of them). Typically I am greeted at the door, which is nice.

Then comes the "What are you looking for today?" speech, which again, is nice. If I'm just swinging by to pick up a pot of paint or whatever, I can get in, get it rang up, pay, and leave in under a minute. What's not to like there?

Keep in mind, I tend to go in, make my purchase, and get the heck out, so having sales-minded individuals are quite nice. And yes, I get "upsold" on paint, brushes, glue, etc.--but sometimes I genuinely have forgotten that my glue's gotten all unsticky or my brush is down to the last few stubborn bristles and while I could go to the local hobby store and save a few bucks, sometimes the sheer convenience will have me pick up GW's equivalents.

Coming in to get a game is a whole other subject, but I tend to play at a non-GW store that's a bit further away (and has major issues with stock, mind you). So the GWs that are right by my home, work, my wife's work, my parents' home, etc., get my convenience dollars.

crazyrossboy wrote:Think i may have the record,
Every time and I do mean EVERY time I walk in the store i get the following from the manager
"hey Ross, what are you going to buy today then?"

It does seem you have the record

How many others get near immediate service?

(either good or bad, we're not here to discuss the quality )

TheChaoticJournalist wrote:I've seen a lot of people discussing their experiences with GW's occassionaly pushy sales tactics their staff enforces. I'm not saying all do, and there are a number of great members of staff I am sure, but I was curious how bad it has been?

My example was that, in a West Yorkshire GW (no specifics) I was literally quized upon being there for a few seconds, and immediately asked 'hey, how are you? Looking for something in particular?' Me and the girlfriend had actually betted on how quick this would happen, but even I had given them 15 seconds to do that Thanksfully after that, we were only asked once more, but by a different guy, so perhaps that doesn't count

So how fast are GW boys where you are in acting out their pre-programmed astarte sales training?

Note: This is not intended to be a GW bashing thread, just one where we can discuss such occurrences in a humorous manner

When I worked there I was told to greet people apon entering the store, and don't leave them alone for more then 30 seconds. Say I was talking to a regular and some noobie walked in, I was supposted to drop the reg and get the kid into a intro game then push AOBR, BfSP or Mines of Moria on them depending on which intro game they did.

I was also told to push the foundation paint set on them, brushes, tool kit, and anything else I could think of at the time....oh ya and a WD subscription....always the WD sub. =o[

Well, I sometimes get greeted before I actually enter the store. It is in a shopping centre and has no door, so if a staff member is on the till they will usually see you coming with and give you a wave and a hello. So, I would say about -5 seconds.

I think some people are confusing greeting with sales pitch.

Being greeted isn't a bad thing, and more likely should be expected in a retail store.

The sales pitch part is what usually gets annoying, especially if you already know what you're going in there for.

For me personally, (unless I'm buying a grocery list worth of stuff) I'm play it coy and ask questions and make them feel like they're being helpful/useful (this is of course if there isn't a mob of others in the store who might actually need their help). But generally speaking, saying "I'm just looking/browsing." Is more then enough to get them to back off and move on. Maybe I've just been lucky, or the big, charcoal grey, pull-over hoody I wear marked with what "looks" like gang writing makes them uncomfortable...*shrug* I'll never know, but I do know I've never received bad service (yet).

Its rather quick in my local GW too.

There is this guy who has an awesomely huge ginger beard, and everytime i go into the store, from across the room he'll yell 'Hey there!' and give a wave. Its quite awesome

I find that asking them for something that you KNOW isn't in their store (i.e. Tau Broadsides usually) tends to shut them down pretty quickly at my personal GW store. But then again, I live in the US so things might be just a little bit different here.

I once saw a redshirt make the Kessel run in under 12 parsecs.

Has it occured to anyone that a games workshop store can actually be quite an intimidating place to anyone that isn't a regular/ simply curious/ or maybe a little insecure about their hobby?

Having someone who is willing to chat to you and find out about you is what alot of casual collectors respond too.

Kozuka wrote:Has it occured to anyone that a games workshop store can actually be quite an intimidating place to anyone that isn't a regular/ simply curious/ or maybe a little insecure about their hobby?

Having someone who is willing to chat to you and find out about you is what alot of casual collectors respond too.

On the other hand, a 'hard sell' scares a lot of people, and this is definitely hard-sell behavior. Some people want to just browse quietly until they need assistance.

Balance wrote:

Kozuka wrote:Has it occured to anyone that a games workshop store can actually be quite an intimidating place to anyone that isn't a regular/ simply curious/ or maybe a little insecure about their hobby?

Having someone who is willing to chat to you and find out about you is what alot of casual collectors respond too.

On the other hand, a 'hard sell' scares a lot of people, and this is definitely hard-sell behavior. Some people want to just browse quietly until they need assistance.

Ah yes, the good old 'Pretend no one else exists' trait that seems to have befallen atleast everyone in britain (eg, trains, a whole carriage full of people doing their best to pretend there is no one there but them).

I agree with you, it is nice to be left alone to browse, especially in large shops where there is lots to take in.
Typically however most games workshops are quite small, and usually not very busy.

What this results in is usually two people who don't know each other, yet who are acutely aware of each others presence. Not talking too or acknowledging each other just intensifies the awkwardness.

Imagine how horrible and dull GW shops would be if everyone was pretending they where the only person there.

I don't think anyone's saying that they shouldn't talk to you, but putting on the hard sell immediately (or at all) is really annoying and off-putting.

Depends on what I'm chasing them with...

azreal13 wrote:

Its when they immediately follow up with sales patter that I lose patience, I have over 10 years of experience in sales, I know the tricks, but I like to be given time to draw breath and get my bearings before engaging in conversation. Others may be happy to start chatting about purchases right away and will become irritated if you leave them alone too long, and it is being able to read each person and make that call that makes a good salesperson, something I seldom encounter in any GW.

I think you have hit the nail on the head here, each person is different, and not everyone likes to be treated the same way.
I dont mind a greeting but when i drop hints to be left alone to browse in peace, i expect them to be followed, which is rarely the case, its normally followed instead by some suggestion that i try something new and *surprise surprise" expensive !!

2 seconds, even when carrying stuff in. The Wellington GW store also has a manager that suffers from verbal diarrhoea. "No I don't want to start vampire counts when I an only afford one box of minis per month."

"But you can always buy these guys when you can next."

"What If I don't like Vampire counts?"

It goes on for fething ever. At least he's not in on Sundays and Tuesdays, so I know when it's safe because the casuals work on those days, who happen to be awesome guys at least.

Kozuka wrote:Has it occured to anyone that a games workshop store can actually be quite an intimidating place to anyone that isn't a regular/ simply curious/ or maybe a little insecure about their hobby?

Having someone who is willing to chat to you and find out about you is what alot of casual collectors respond too.

Yes, it is. All they are is black wall paper, line of shelf's full things you dont know and a counter. Maybe 2 tables. Atleast thats what mine is like(its like 6 miles away though, only ever been there once)

Balance wrote:

Kozuka wrote:Has it occured to anyone that a games workshop store can actually be quite an intimidating place to anyone that isn't a regular/ simply curious/ or maybe a little insecure about their hobby?

Having someone who is willing to chat to you and find out about you is what alot of casual collectors respond too.

On the other hand, a 'hard sell' scares a lot of people, and this is definitely hard-sell behavior. Some people want to just browse quietly until they need assistance.

I see your point Balance, but if GW didn't lead in this overly chatty and approachable way, the Warhammer ethic would be entirely different.

Well this one time, um, this blackshirt totally yeild at me because I only bought a $105 purchas and didn't buy a baneblade.......

Zambro wrote:

Balance wrote:

Kozuka wrote:Has it occured to anyone that a games workshop store can actually be quite an intimidating place to anyone that isn't a regular/ simply curious/ or maybe a little insecure about their hobby?

Having someone who is willing to chat to you and find out about you is what alot of casual collectors respond too.

On the other hand, a 'hard sell' scares a lot of people, and this is definitely hard-sell behavior. Some people want to just browse quietly until they need assistance.

I see your point Balance, but if GW didn't lead in this overly chatty and approachable way, the Warhammer ethic would be entirely different.

So it'd be friendly? Because the current mindset... isn't.

Don't hate on sales reps. They're just doing their job. Management basically forces them to harass people for sales in fear of not meeting weekly numbers and being fired. They probably don't want to push products on you.

I used to work at Radio Shack...

I've said it before i'll say it again. My local GW employee is a great example he always greets people helps them out and introduces new people to the game.

Heck when my brother (who does not play anymore) went in to get my birthday present he even checked the fine cast model for major imperfections that is quality.

Addendum to previous post: there's a new (I think) redshirt in my local gw. I haven't seen him all that much, but he's better than some of the other guys that work there. When I went in he was painting something, and all he asked was if I knew what I was looking for, then continued painting. He seemed pretty chill, although I still don't have a reason to go buy things from the gw (ever notice how pretty much every site that sells gw products does so at a 20% or more discount?).

Poppabear wrote:Well this one time, um, this blackshirt totally yeild at me because I only bought a $105 purchas and didn't buy a baneblade.......

What does 'Yeild' mean? and 'Purchas'?

J.Black wrote:

Poppabear wrote:Well this one time, um, this blackshirt totally yeild at me because I only bought a $105 purchas and didn't buy a baneblade.......

What does 'Yeild' mean? and 'Purchas'?

Don't get hung up on silly things like that man. ¬¬

McNinja wrote:Addendum to previous post: there's a new (I think) redshirt in my local gw. I haven't seen him all that much, but he's better than some of the other guys that work there. When I went in he was painting something, and all he asked was if I knew what I was looking for, then continued painting. He seemed pretty chill, although I still don't have a reason to go buy things from the gw (ever notice how pretty much every site that sells gw products does so at a 20% or more discount?).

$6 off per box.

Buying a 1500 point army that'll total to what, $50-60 or so? I'd pay that to support my local store with maybe one army, definitely. Even the GW paints over there are cheaper than P3 or Vallejo here.

Wouldn't pay the extra $25 per purchase though, I support my local store by buying some GF9 etc from them (as there's only a few GW's left in Australia now). Granted I usually save about $35 a purchase as I buy used as I enjoy seeing what the power of LOVE! can do to things. (Using a $55/30 box as an example).

OT: When I went in many a year ago before the local GW shutdown (lasted maybe a year or two, Australia's not a good place to setup your impulse buy business model when we're so spread out along the coasts), the guy was nice enough and quick (it wasn't overly busy at any time), got me as soon as I went in and didn't 'force' me into an army, I just picked the first one I saw (yes I'm terrible with decisions), made good recommendations and didn't try to rip me off of any money (more than GW execs were), just told me the bare basics of what to get (battleforce + lord) which was Necrons. Luckily I didn't regret it.

What makes me really annoyed though... NZ prices are cheaper slightly (adjusting for exchange rate for those who think HOLY CRAP $65 NO WAY!)

CrashCanuck wrote:I once saw a redshirt make the Kessel run in under 12 parsecs.

Dammit, that's my coffee on the monitor....

Well in both stores in cologne the staff is really fast probably within the first 10 seconds. Okay, they are doing their greeting thing rather.. odd, the last time was something like "Hi, my name is... and I play XY, how can I help you today?" wich leaves me only one answer: "Hi, my name is Troy Mcclure and you may know me for my space marines and bretonnian army"..
did the trick and I was left alone

Best experience was in the Dublin GW 6 years ago. Had a really nice chat about pretty much everything with the staff after they discovered that I'm from germany and on vacation in Ireland. From the gaming itself to living in Germany vs Ireland and the beer discussion
They were really puzzled, that I couldn't buy the new Necromunda Rulebook and Imperial Armour book in a german GW, when I pointed that out and I bought the Rulebook, one Gang, a new Blood Bowl Team and the Imperial Armour I on this day

McNinja wrote:Addendum to previous post: there's a new (I think) redshirt in my local gw. I haven't seen him all that much, but he's better than some of the other guys that work there. When I went in he was painting something, and all he asked was if I knew what I was looking for, then continued painting. He seemed pretty chill, although I still don't have a reason to go buy things from the gw (ever notice how pretty much every site that sells gw products does so at a 20% or more discount?).

Well you shouldn't have a reason to game there either because all of your online discounters provide you a way to teleport through the internet and game in thier internet store with other gamers right?

Since I don't have a computer which will teleport me and my minis to TRON-land to play 40k with people (must not be available in my area yet) I still have to game with people in the real world in these horrible stores made out of bricks and held together by mortar...

well, as a former redshirt, my current land speed record is 159.7 MPH on my bike.

but seriously, you're complaining about someone saying hello and asking you if you need help?

unless we see you in there EVERY day (yes we had those guys) how are we to know you play or not? you must have forgotten to wear your badge that appropriately distinguishes you from the rest of the world. our mistake.

the number one item pushed to sell, is the basic starter package. that's the NUMBER ONE item GW pushes to tell. once you're into the game, we don't have to sell you crapola.

look, I worked there, I know it, and I STILL buy crap for this game. (mostly because I love it)

its like crack. we're crack dealers. the first bite is free (demo game) then its all downhill from there.

but as far as asking for a CSR to see if they can help you? I would LOVE to have every store I shopped at be that courteous. (and yes, we were chastised for not greeting everyone who walked in the store, because we all like being acknowledged)

The other reason the sales pitch may be a bit robotic is because for a lot of the store staffers its their first job. Plus its their first intro to the 'real world neo' with set targets to meet and the like. That said, if you're polite back, as I am, I never have any problem whether I want a hand finding something or am just browsing.

There's no point ragging on staff who have been taught to do things a certain way, because thats how the company wants it. That said, i have been in quite a few GW's around the UK and Germany and found them all to be good. I hate walking into a 'FLGS' sometimes because in the first few seconds you know you've made a big mistake - along with the first time you go into somewhere like Maelstrom games and its like putting an old pair of slippers on and feeling like home.

So to sum up, I actually like the pitch.

Depends on the guy, the Manager and the Pernament is fast but the casuals can be slow.

I've noticed that Gamesworkshop stores share similarities with America's favorite restaurant-Hooters. Both yell out a greeting to you when you enter, try to get you to buy expensive items from the "menu," and you're constantly surrounded by large breasted people who don't give you much space. Also, adolescents seem to drool a lot in both places. Huh...not much difference at all, really

Oh, right. The large breasted people in Hooters bathe. Never mind...

timetowaste85 wrote:I've noticed that Gamesworkshop stores share similarities with America's favorite restaurant-Hooters. Both yell out a greeting to you when you enter, try to get you to buy expensive items from the "menu," and you're constantly surrounded by large breasted people who don't give you much space. Also, adolescents seem to drool a lot in both places. Huh...not much difference at all, really

Oh, right. The large breasted people in Hooters bathe. Never mind...

and I want to have sex with the large breasted in Hooters, not in ANY FLGS I have ever been to.

oh and there is beer, and chicken wings, and more hot chicks in one space than any FLGS has ever seen even on the internet.

did you seriously compare Hooters to a dorkturary? I deduct 10 man points, and hold you in contempt for women in nerd court.

Idk, I met one of my ex's in a FLGS (her older brother didn't like the fact that we started dating and made my life miserable from there on out), and she had a good sized rack, great butt, and was a freak in the sack. And she was cute.

And yes, I compared Hooters to a GW. I think I deserve the 'brass balls' award for making such a statement.

timetowaste85 wrote:Idk, I met one of my ex's in a FLGS (her older brother didn't like the fact that we started dating and made my life miserable from there on out), and she had a good sized rack, great butt, and was a freak in the sack. And she was cute.

And yes, I compared Hooters to a GW. I think I deserve the 'brass balls' award for making such a statement.

a single cute girl vs an entire hooters waitress staff a synonym doth not make.

I think you got lucky. but I still don't agree with the comparison. most of the people in my FLGS are likely to be the oil sweating creepers at the hooters ordering coke and fried chicken in the corner booth with a roll of quarters waiting for the waitress staff to walk by.

Hooters > GW

Anyone that says different hates excellent wings.

Good day, sir!

Rimmy wrote:

timetowaste85 wrote:Idk, I met one of my ex's in a FLGS (her older brother didn't like the fact that we started dating and made my life miserable from there on out), and she had a good sized rack, great butt, and was a freak in the sack. And she was cute.

And yes, I compared Hooters to a GW. I think I deserve the 'brass balls' award for making such a statement.

a single cute girl vs an entire hooters waitress staff a synonym doth not make.

I think you got lucky. but I still don't agree with the comparison. most of the people in my FLGS are likely to be the oil sweating creepers at the hooters ordering coke and fried chicken in the corner booth with a roll of quarters waiting for the waitress staff to walk by.

You do realize that my comparison was a HUGE joke, right? It was meant to be funny. Sounds like somebody needs a boulder, a sign that says "bye bye", and a very tall bird to chase.
I happen to like Hooters-wings are good, and a coke or beer, depending on my mood: and I know it has no real correlation with a game store. I figured the outrageousness of my statements before would suggest I was in no way being serious

And Kronk, what's wrong with bringing a roll of quarters to engage the girls in drinking games?


Automatically Appended Next Post:
Edit-sorry, Kronk. I thought you put that bit about the quarters. Lol

timetowaste85 wrote:You do realize that my comparison was a HUGE joke, right?

There is no humor on the internet. There is only:

1. The Onion. Simply the greatest source of unbiased journalism ever.
2. pr0n.
3. GW bashing.

If you cannot agree that a Hooters Store is greater than an FLGS, then I must say good day sir!



On topic: I have been in 2 GW stores. Neither was pushy. In one, the guy was handling 6 or 8 kids under 12 by himself. A few were rather rambunctious, as kids are wont to be. I picked up what I wanted and left without issues.

where is that facepalm emoticon.....

so I take it you weren't picking up on my sarcasm in the first place?

Rimmy wrote:where is that facepalm emoticon.....

so I take it you weren't picking up on my sarcasm in the first place?

Who me? I picked up on it just fine.

TheChaoticJournalist wrote:

J.Black wrote:In Manchester it is pretty much within the first 10 seconds: Gotta hand it to 'em, they are real efficient

I wasn't gonna mention the store, but, uncannily, I'm on about the same store! Tzeentch works in mysterious ways.....

Dude, you're trying to claim Manchester is in West Yorkshire? Are you trying to start a war (of the Roses)?

Dysartes wrote:

TheChaoticJournalist wrote:

J.Black wrote:In Manchester it is pretty much within the first 10 seconds: Gotta hand it to 'em, they are real efficient

I wasn't gonna mention the store, but, uncannily, I'm on about the same store! Tzeentch works in mysterious ways.....

Dude, you're trying to claim Manchester is in West Yorkshire? Are you trying to start a war (of the Roses)?

Last year when Manchester city council was redesigning it's logo, they asked for submissions from the public. For some reason my idea of a large white rose didn't make it to the final design

Rimmy wrote:where is that facepalm emoticon.....

so I take it you weren't picking up on my sarcasm in the first place?

Looks like I need to facepalm myself I figured you were kidding with the -10 man points, but then the next message I thought was serious Anyway, I still recommend an 'acme' boulder for your amusement

On topic, how fast of a redshirt were you again? Lol. Did you ever have whiners to your face about you being a salesman?

Dysartes wrote:

TheChaoticJournalist wrote:

J.Black wrote:In Manchester it is pretty much within the first 10 seconds: Gotta hand it to 'em, they are real efficient

I wasn't gonna mention the store, but, uncannily, I'm on about the same store! Tzeentch works in mysterious ways.....

Dude, you're trying to claim Manchester is in West Yorkshire? Are you trying to start a war (of the Roses)?

Not claiming, my appologies. I'm got not great with Geography :(

timetowaste85 wrote:

Rimmy wrote:where is that facepalm emoticon.....

so I take it you weren't picking up on my sarcasm in the first place?

Looks like I need to facepalm myself I figured you were kidding with the -10 man points, but then the next message I thought was serious Anyway, I still recommend an 'acme' boulder for your amusement

On topic, how fast of a redshirt were you again? Lol. Did you ever have whiners to your face about you being a salesman?

Nope. Despite the corporate intimidation I never sold anythin to anyone they didn't want.

Most of my customers were jumpy I could help them find what they came for. The large majority of my sales was starter sets. I was really good at getting people excited to play (because I was excited to play)

I got in trouble for telling kids to save their money.

The redshirts at my FLGS are bros, as far as I remember. Haven't been in there in a month or so.

Usually don't bother me unless I ask em about something, and leave me + the other gamers in the store alone while we play with our plastic armymen.
.
Maybe it's because my GW is a spacious minimall store? Tons of space, and all the product is on the walls so it's easy to spot theft.

It had been a while since I had been in an actual GW Store I took the 3 hour ride to one today from entering the front of the store I counted "1 one thousand, 2 one thou...." "Hi what can I help you find today?" so it took them 1.5 seconds. And in all fairness I had my big black GW case slung over my shoulder and my Chaos Undivided shirt on. I have found when I don't have the case and/or the shirt they ask a lot faster.

Also in all fairness as soon as I said "Random bits for conversions" they backed down.

Redshirts? I thought most GW stores were 1 man operations now... ran by Blackshirts.

Anyway, our Blackshirt is a good guy, not overbearing, and leading by example when it comes to getting painted armies on the board.

I present this as people's evidence: http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/434289.page

Battle Ready Studios wrote:Redshirts? I thought most GW stores were 1 man operations now... ran by Blackshirts.

Anyway, our Blackshirt is a good guy, not overbearing, and leading by example when it comes to getting painted armies on the board.

Fair Oaks Mall in VA there were 3 guys in red shirts, 2 in black. In all fairness the store was having an event I was told it was their 3 year birthday.

Bex wrote:

Battle Ready Studios wrote:Redshirts? I thought most GW stores were 1 man operations now... ran by Blackshirts.

Anyway, our Blackshirt is a good guy, not overbearing, and leading by example when it comes to getting painted armies on the board.

Fair Oaks Mall in VA there were 3 guys in red shirts, 2 in black. In all fairness the store was having an event I was told it was their 3 year birthday.

that makes sense now. I thought it was a bit crowded, even for a saturday.

The one time a GW employee (the coulour of his shirt now escapes me) tried to sell me something was when I came in looking for the BRB for, and this was just after the island of blood release so he tried to sell me the IoB box. after a polite refusal to buy, he stop talking about the box and asked the usual Q's, what armys do you play and stuff.

There was this one time when I was in bromley GW the guy tried to convince me to buy a diffrent wash to the one I was buying, not trying to sell me anything more but more along the lines of:
"buy that one instead, its better and brings the paints together"

Edinburgh used to be ok. At first you had to fend them off with a cricket bat but once they got to know you it was just talking about 40k and not trying to sell you anything you didn't want. Then they were all replaced! The last few times I was there(it may have changed) The new lot totally ignored you to the point where you had to try and catch their eye when you were trying to buy something!They seemed to have their own little collective with their mates and never seemed keen to leave it.

Since I've mentioned 2 positive GW experiences, I thought I'd add on lucky number 3. I went to GW in Kent, Washington today by the college, and had a really good experience. The manager wasn't pushy, was very helpful, and suggested reading material to help me figure out which models to buy (suggested reading and not buying the models until I read it-how's that for honesty?!). Sadly, Black Library was having difficulties and wouldn't accept my card for an ebook, so I'll have to buy it later, but I bought two boxes of Seekers and a pack of battlemagic cards that I needed. I sat down and put one box together, talked with the regulars, and got a couple painting and sculpting tips (the Brass Bull I saw being built there was awesome!!) and I now intend to make a Khorne daemon prince, despite how much I said they were worthless before, they now have use due to Grey Knights, and the BB conversion would make for a great prince with a few modifications. So 3 perfect GW experiences, saw a 25th anniversary model that had two tiny imperfections-so tiny that they were barely noticeable while looking for them and even being told they were there. Highly recommend this GW store guys-they aren't pushy, are very friendly, and quite helpful in all ways supporting the hobby.

My last three store visits went something like this :

GW Swindon Visit 1 : Time in store approx 7 seconds.
Redshirt separates from his cohort and opens with standard "Hi, can I help you with anything ?"
Me - "No mate, spotted the store as I walked by and thought I'd pop in to look at your 40K tables."
Redshirt - " Well if you're interested in starting an army I'm sure I can help you choose."
Me - "I've been playing since Cortez wore spotted armour, so I think I'm OK thanks." - Redshirt looks confused, so I elaborate, " Ever heard of Rogue Trader ? Thirty Marines for a tenner ? Mole Mortar ?" - RT seems to ring a bell for him, but the others just seem to confuse him even more. Time to finish him
Me - "No offence mate, but if you were a Scout, I'd be Ortan Cassius"
Redshirt deflates nicely and wanders off in search of easier prey.


GW Swindon, Vist 2 (3 weeks later) : Time in store approx 10 seconds. Same Redshirt on duty. I'm pushed for time and in no mood to play.
Redshirt - "Hi, are you looking for anything in particular ?" ( either he's a robot, or he's already forgotten my last visit, so I decide to play after all.)
Me - (raising a hand as I pass by) "Hold that thought !"
After a couple of minutes collecting items, during which the RoboShirt watches, I return with my choices. I notice his mate is grinning slightly, obviously someone's memory is starting to fizz a little, but not Robo until...
Me - "Ring 'em up, Scout, I'm on a schedule."
Robo deflates again as memory returns. His mate, meanwhile, is trying to stifle a laugh.

GW Bristol (City Centre) (about 2 weeks later still) : Time in store approx 2 minutes. 1 Redshirt on duty, no other customers in store.
Redshirt - "Morning ! Looking for something or just browsing ?"
Me - "Killing time before my train so I thought I'd pop in."
Redshirt - "Cool. If you need anything just let me know."
It's my turn to be confused, so I ask him flat out - "No sales pitch ?"
Red looks up from the Tervigon he's painting and smiles - " You've got the Ultramarines symbol on your cap, and you eyed the table at the front like a sniper on a fly-by, so I'm guessing you'd know what you want. Been playing long ?"
Me - "Since the day after Rogue Trader was published."
Red's smile becomes a grin and he makes the sign of the Aquilla - " An Honoured Veteran !" he chuckles.
On that day I missed my train and had to catch the next as I spent a couple of hours in store chilling and talking about how the game has changed over the years ( I even demonstrated the old Turn Radius Ratio rules from memory with a Rhino and a Battlewaggon, which he found quite entertaining).

Two different experiences in two different stores. Going further back into history, I also used to visit GW Bournemouth when they'd first opened. Their attitude back then was much like the Bristol store, but that was way back in 96 so things might well be different now.

Reaper6 wrote:My last three store visits went something like this :

GW Swindon Visit 1 : Time in store approx 7 seconds.
Redshirt separates from his cohort and opens with standard "Hi, can I help you with anything ?"
Me - "No mate, spotted the store as I walked by and thought I'd pop in to look at your 40K tables."
Redshirt - " Well if you're interested in starting an army I'm sure I can help you choose."
Me - "I've been playing since Cortez wore spotted armour, so I think I'm OK thanks." - Redshirt looks confused, so I elaborate, " Ever heard of Rogue Trader ? Thirty Marines for a tenner ? Mole Mortar ?" - RT seems to ring a bell for him, but the others just seem to confuse him even more. Time to finish him
Me - "No offence mate, but if you were a Scout, I'd be Ortan Cassius"
Redshirt deflates nicely and wanders off in search of easier prey.


GW Swindon, Vist 2 (3 weeks later) : Time in store approx 10 seconds. Same Redshirt on duty. I'm pushed for time and in no mood to play.
Redshirt - "Hi, are you looking for anything in particular ?" ( either he's a robot, or he's already forgotten my last visit, so I decide to play after all.)
Me - (raising a hand as I pass by) "Hold that thought !"
After a couple of minutes collecting items, during which the RoboShirt watches, I return with my choices. I notice his mate is grinning slightly, obviously someone's memory is starting to fizz a little, but not Robo until...
Me - "Ring 'em up, Scout, I'm on a schedule."
Robo deflates again as memory returns. His mate, meanwhile, is trying to stifle a laugh.

GW Bristol (City Centre) (about 2 weeks later still) : Time in store approx 2 minutes. 1 Redshirt on duty, no other customers in store.
Redshirt - "Morning ! Looking for something or just browsing ?"
Me - "Killing time before my train so I thought I'd pop in."
Redshirt - "Cool. If you need anything just let me know."
It's my turn to be confused, so I ask him flat out - "No sales pitch ?"
Red looks up from the Tervigon he's painting and smiles - " You've got the Ultramarines symbol on your cap, and you eyed the table at the front like a sniper on a fly-by, so I'm guessing you'd know what you want. Been playing long ?"
Me - "Since the day after Rogue Trader was published."
Red's smile becomes a grin and he makes the sign of the Aquilla - " An Honoured Veteran !" he chuckles.
On that day I missed my train and had to catch the next as I spent a couple of hours in store chilling and talking about how the game has changed over the years ( I even demonstrated the old Turn Radius Ratio rules from memory with a Rhino and a Battlewaggon, which he found quite entertaining).

Two different experiences in two different stores. Going further back into history, I also used to visit GW Bournemouth when they'd first opened. Their attitude back then was much like the Bristol store, but that was way back in 96 so things might well be different now.

Your story had me grinning. Quite humorous. As I'm at an airport and grinning at something online, people are probably giving me an odd stare...lol

@ timetowaste85 : Glad to brighten your day

The memory of RoboShirt always makes me smile, and Redshirt of Bristol found it quite amusing too, especially as my Ultras cap went everywhere with me at the time so Robo should have spotted it !

timetowaste85 wrote:My last three store visits went something like this :

GW Bristol (City Centre) (about 2 weeks later still) : Time in store approx 2 minutes. 1 Redshirt on duty, no other customers in store.
Redshirt - "Morning ! Looking for something or just browsing ?"
Me - "Killing time before my train so I thought I'd pop in."
Redshirt - "Cool. If you need anything just let me know."
It's my turn to be confused, so I ask him flat out - "No sales pitch ?"
Red looks up from the Tervigon he's painting and smiles - " You've got the Ultramarines symbol on your cap, and you eyed the table at the front like a sniper on a fly-by, so I'm guessing you'd know what you want. Been playing long ?"
Me - "Since the day after Rogue Trader was published."
Red's smile becomes a grin and he makes the sign of the Aquilla - " An Honoured Veteran !" he chuckles.
On that day I missed my train and had to catch the next as I spent a couple of hours in store chilling and talking about how the game has changed over the years ( I even demonstrated the old Turn Radius Ratio rules from memory with a Rhino and a Battlewaggon, which he found quite entertaining).

Two different experiences in two different stores. Going further back into history, I also used to visit GW Bournemouth when they'd first opened. Their attitude back then was much like the Bristol store, but that was way back in 96 so things might well be different now.

The Bristol store staff were fantastic when I lived there during my Masters. helped me when I was getting back into the hobby after 4 years off no end, always happy to help or just let you browse whilst killing time etc. Brilliant, similarly the GW Plaza staff in London are as good, and the Covent Garden ones, but the rest, not so good.

I think you misquoted-it wasn't me in Bristol, it was the other guy

Its nice to know there are some GW stores out there doing it how it should be done, its not all bad eh.

No, it's not all bad, and most people are taking offense at normal sales pitches. I've given 3 GW stores chances, and all three are ones I'd happily go back to (sadly one closed). All were friendly, nobody pressed me hard, and everyone was up to talking to the out-of-town guy. Worst 'pressing of sales' I had was "If you want that, but can't fly with it, we can mail it to your house," and "I saw you finished the first box, did you want me to grab the other one for you (which I already mentioned I'd probably get)" and he grabbed it off the shelf for me. So yeah...horrible salesman pitches. Right...lol. And neither pressed me for glue, paint or flock. Just asked if I needed any supplies to go with them (as ALL entertainment stores ask), I said 'nope,' and there was no pressing on it.
I like GW stores. They're friendly, engaging, and if you have a good manager, very helpful. I haven't looked at the flags for most of the "my GW sucks" comments, but the ones in America have been good to me so far.