I have been in three different Officeworks stores recently and each showed that this group is on the move. They are making a personal pitch around local management, providing better in-store service and they are strongly promoting their kids club: Ollie kids’ club.
One store I went to provided we with an excellent customer service experience. In fact, it was this experience that made we take more careful note about how much the Officeworks offer had changed.
Newsagents who have not been into an Officeworks store in six months should make the trip to check out the competition. This retail chain has lifted their game, they are even tougher competition for newsagents.
Our local Officeworks now charges for a bag when you checkout. Similar to what the other majors are doing. They phrase it such “would you like a bag for an extra 20c?” on checkout. Which is upfront about it, not shameful and makes you not want to ask for a bag. It’s a particular use of phrase that the other majors have taught their checkout operators as well. I don’t think this is a good look for them.
We can also beat them on price on the inkjet cartridges still, but they’re pricing on smaller items such as pens and highlighters is pretty sharp if not a loss leader.
They also sell boxes of stamps which is an interesting move.