Comet customers not surprised at chain's problems

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2012/nov/01/comet-customers

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Customers coming in out of the rain to the near-empty Comet store on London's Old Kent Road yesterday had mostly not heard that the lossmaking chain was about to go into administration – but when told the news they said they were not surprised.

One man in his 30s summed up the retailer's problems in a few words: "The others are just better," he said.

The choice of products on offer was not good, he said. He wanted to buy a set of speakers for his living room and was only able to find one in the shelves. Like other customers, he pointed out there was a large Currys just across the road.

"I double-check prices", said another. As long as it was cheaper he would still buy at the struggling Comet, but would would not be buying vouchers in case the chain did not survive.

He emphasised that he was not a fan of buying over the internet, because he wanted to see products and touch them.

A woman in her 50s, looking for a new washing machine, was reluctant to buy at this store. "Years ago I had problems with a Comet's insurance. Now I prefer to buy at John Lewis where they offer a longer guarantee. I think all the negative news of the last years was the death blow for Comet." She felt very sorry for the employees who could lose their jobs.

There was not much activity among the mostly male staff. With their jobs at risk no one wanted to be quoted. All anyone would say was that the future of the company was not in their hands – "but that's life".