impressions - Amazon Angst.

Previously I have complained about Ebay, not so much the web site itself, but the barmy way the various users buy and sell their goods. It was a good natured ribbing as I have only heard a few stories of fraudulent behavior which was dealt efficiently. So I continue to use Ebay from time to time despite the occasional eccentricity!

Why am I banging on about it again? Well this time I want to talk to you about Amazon, that great on-line dealer in electronics, books and other fun items. Unlike Ebay, which is a sort of junk shop filled with like minded individuals, Amazon is a more standard on-line retail provider. I’ve used them for books, games (your guaranteed they are not copies) and some low end electronics. You do a search for what you want; you pop it into your virtual basket and then sort out delivery and payment. Then all you do is to wait for the postman and you get your goodies. Hurrah!

Now I have said that I was introduced to Ebay at work. Part of my duties was to monitor searches, contact dealers and help sort out delivery and feedback. I also had to sell some low grade antique items and took photos, set up the page and dealt with general enquiries. It went smoothly and there were few hiccups but both buyer and seller were amateurs and so small delays were expected. So when I eventually started to use Amazon I liked the fact that they maintained their stock so you knew what they had and you were confident that you could buy what you wanted, when you wanted it.

But only recently, since I’ve used Amazon.co.uk has suppliers in Europe and the United Kingdom so that shatters that theory. In my email account there are innumerate emails expressing apologies for the delay and I have even received about 35 pounds in gift vouchers as recompense.

My recent order for two text books and a South American collection of Short Stories was expected to be delivered in a weeks time but when that time came up, I got an email saying the delivery had been pushed back a further 2 to 3 weeks! I’m not annoyed as payment has not been deducted, but it is still galling that this is a repeating problem.

I’m sure the reason is that I seek to purchase obscure literature, specialized text books and avoid the plebian tastes has a part to play in this. Dan Brown is in near constant demand as are Madonna albums, so there must be case loads of the stuff in warehouses around Britain. I doubt that my interests solicit such a loyal following and so the infrastructure isn’t in place to make sure my demand is met as quick. And yet saying that, it does not assuage my disappointment as when I place my order, the display window for the items claim a quick delivery which I know, through long experience, will not be met. That aside, I am still a loyal customer of Amazon… until I am made aware of a better service provider. Such is the way of things.