Where to Shop (Local First) for Appliances

 The August issue of Consumer Reports reviewed where to shop for home applicances. Scoring businesses on prices, service, knowledgeable staff and ease of sale, they're reporting that indepedent retailers scored higher than big-box retailers in the areas of service and having knowledgeable staff. Independent retailers also received high marks for selection and ease of shopping. 

While getting a good price is definitely important, their report shows that shoppers want more than just the lowest bottom line. And we know that local businesses are more able to provide competent, positive service experiences. Why is that? 

We think there are three reasons: 

• The store owner is more connected. Instead of being owned by thousands of absent shareholders, independent stores are owned by people in our community. They have more at stake, often including their property and financial future. 
• They manage more than the bottom line. Because ownership is closer to home, the impact of how their employees treat customers is more immediate, and vital. Investment in good service is a bigger priority.
• Fewer middle men mean problems are handled more quickly by people who are actually in charge. Middle management just ads more people and time to the decision making process - which means you're more likely to deal with someone who can actually help you deal with an issue.

So where do you go if you want to find appliances from local businesses? 

• Listen Up sells home entertainment electronics with three front range stores and online
• Ace Hardware stores sell small appliances in dozens of stores across the state (and each Ace store is independently owned and operated)
• Crush sells trendy (and funky) kitchen accessories (and other home products) online and in their LoDo store
• Ultimate Electronics is the largest local source for small & large applicances and home electronics in Colorado. Now a national chain, Ultimate Electronics is still headquartered in Colorado