Taking charge, I ask  to order the item, one week delivery is quoted and deemed acceptable (begrudgingly). A week later the shelf is still empty and the grass continues to grow!

Result, unhappy customer, frustrated children unable to enjoy the lawn. Brand reputation of shop keeper diminishing FAST. The solution, drive 90 miles to neighbouring store where six items are gathering dust of the shelf.

Solution: at the first point of contact employee shows initiative does a stock check, orders new items and contacts stores for same. Arranges (at no cost to the customer) for stock transfer and notifies when item is available for collection. Result is happy customer, sale made, reputation maintained.

Come on please, it’s not that difficult. Business owners, unless you adapt you will not survive, employ staff who can and do without those employees who can’t.