Let The Buyer Beware

[Archangel]

You should probably tell us. Keep it calm, like you have so far, and I think the mods will let it stand.
Ron is right, seems like most suppliers watch this site for news and respond.
Worst is you'll be in the same spot wondering where your stuff is.
Best is that somebody about to order won't lose there dime and "send you bad karma" for not letting them know sooner. There is a thread with those sentiments about a shop in Edinburgh.

I noticed that one of the sponsors of this site looks like the same kind of jobber shop you are describing. They look like they actually order from different companies and send it to you in their own name. That's my take, I could be wrong. I would also assume that they would be the same company you are referring to if I don't know better. My fear is that they would act the same way so it's only fair to let us know if it is not them.

[Panache]

You should probably tell us. Keep it calm, like you have so far, and I think the mods will let it stand.

The members of the Mod Squad are all kilt wearers and members of XMTS first and foremost. We all appreciate honest reviews of the products and services of kilt related merchants and their wares (be they XMTS sponsors or not).

Cheers

Jamie

[rollerboy_1979]

[QUOTE=Panache;413236]The members of the Mod Squad are all kilt wearers and members of XMTS first and foremost. We all appreciate honest reviews of the products and services of kilt related merchants and their wares (be they XMTS sponsors or not).

Since I have the blessings of the Mods, and I'm hoping that the company I'm dealing with will be monitoring this, I will tell you who I'm having such difficulty with...........CLANSMAN KNITWEAR. You probably have guessed by now anyway, because the name has already come up on this thread. Ralph Neilson, if you are reading this you know who I am. The ONE phone conversation we had was very pleasant, but it was months ago! When I rec'd my Prince Charlie & vest, I contacted Gaelic Themes to ask if they were providing the other items, and they said they'd pass on my displeasure to you. You finally emailed me telling me not to contact your suppliers, that I should deal with you directly. I want to deal with you directly, but YOU NEVER RESPOND! It is sad that it took an email to your supplier to ellicit a response from you (it was the last I heard from him). I am a very patient man, but even I have my limits. I am going to give you every opportunity to regain my trust, but I will not approve the charge until I have all the items I ordered. I also want an update as to when I might expect my kilt. A 36.5" waist, 42" hips, 24" drop Marton Mills Black Watch kilt has to be hanging on a rack somewhere! I do not understand why you are unwilling to keep me informed.

Until I am completely satisfied, I would warn all of you to be very wary of this company. They appear to be struggling so I'd look elsewhere. At least that's my opinion at this point.

I'm not a complainer, but I won't be ignored.

[Riverkilt]

Ah yes....one more reason to do a search before ordering.

Today, I still do business with Clansman Knitwear - but only at highland games where I can inspect the merchandise, pay for it, and take it with me.

Ron

[Livingston]

Ah yes....one more reason to do a search before ordering.

Today, I still do business with Clansman Knitwear - but only at highland games where I can inspect the merchandise, pay for it, and take it with me.

Ron

After my experiance 3 years ago, I feel exactly the same way. And then ONLY if none of the other vendors have that item.

[ardchoille]

I deal with brick and mortar stores and have always been nervous about dealing with companies over the internet. Luckily I deal with a very nice company over the internet (did a lot of research on them before ordering) and have never been disappointed. Word of mouth can make or break a company and communication is vital. I agree, one needs to be cautious about dealing with anyone over the internet. I'm currently "branching out" and dealing with other companies over the internet, but only because the nice folks on these forums have posted reviews and news of the xmarks vendors. It's good to hear news of each other's experiences, whether good or bad, so that we can make an informed decision on purchases - especially custom purchases such as kilts.

I agree with Riverkilt. I would think a company would jump up and get to work, so to speak, if you posted their name.

[Raptor]

I've been fortunate so far with internet purchases actually arriving, but I have had some stressful times waiting for dropship items. I can only echo the advice above: stick with reputable companies.

[Ozman1944]

TAXDRAGON, tell your tough son I'll be hiring him any day now; I might finally get things sorted out with his help.

Ignore ME will ya?

[Packhound]

The discussion here is very helpful to those of us who are new to the kilt. As I build my kit I am concerned about who to do business with. The closest brick and mortar is several hours away and the items that we order are somewhat "specialized". Please, continue to publish reviews of companies that you deal with (good and bad) so that we all may have good information about making online (and face-to-face) purchases.

[taxdragon]

The discussion here is very helpful to those of us who are new to the kilt. As I build my kit I am concerned about who to do business with. The closest brick and mortar is several hours away and the items that we order are somewhat "specialized". Please, continue to publish reviews of companies that you deal with (good and bad) so that we all may have good information about making online (and face-to-face) purchases.

Pack, I have had very good luck dealing with Stillwaterkilts.com. Very fast shipping and great products. I just love the Nightstalker Cargo sporran and can't wait for the leather version.