Home Hardware has been promoting quality customer service within its corporate membership by inviting all corporate stores to take part in two mystery shopper surveys, taking part over the busy Christmas period and earlier this year.
The emphasis of the two visits was to concentrate on customer service, providing each store with detailed reports to use as a valuable learning tool. Home Hardware use the professional services of Aba Quality Montinoring Ltd, a market research company.

Home Hardware awarded a £250 cash prize and plaque to the store team achieving the best results for the combined visits. Bunce's Home Handyman, part of the Bunce's Home Hardware group of six Sussex-based stores, took the prize.

Five star rating certificates were awarded to Coulsdon Home Hardware, Watsons Home Hardware, Rowlands Home Hardware and new corporate member Portchester Home Hardware.

Home Hardware ceo Martin Elliott said: "We take our Customer Service Charter very seriously, and believe that great service is undoubtedly something that makes our independent retailers stand out from the crowd, in what is after all, a challenging and competitive environment. It's no secret that the key to great service is enthusiastic, committed and well trained staff."