Lakeside True Value: A Shopper’s Guide
Why You Should Visit
- Exceptional Customer Service: You’ll be greeted warmly upon arrival and consistently offered assistance throughout your shopping experience. Staff members actively seek out customers to ask if they need help, a stark contrast to larger stores. This personalized attention extends to loading your vehicle; they’ll gladly help you with heavy items.
- Knowledgeable and Helpful Staff: The associates possess in-depth product knowledge. They can provide expert advice, assist with problem-solving (like determining the right screw size for a project), and quickly locate even specialized items. Specific staff members like Barb, Jim, Mike, and Joey were repeatedly praised for their helpfulness. Even though Mercedes sometimes has issues, they are always rectified.
- Wide Selection: The store boasts a broad inventory, ranging from hardware and tools (including Milwaukee Tools) to birdseed, lawn and leaf bags, and even automotive supplies like blank jeep keys (though programming is store-done and costly). It’s your one-stop shop for home improvement and outdoor projects. If you can’t find a specific item elsewhere, chances are they have it.
- Community Feel: This locally-owned business offers a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Conversations with staff members often go beyond the transactional, creating a positive and memorable experience. The employees show genuine interest in customers’ needs and projects.
- Convenient Size: The store is described as “just the right size,” offering a good selection without feeling overwhelming, a big plus compared to giant big box stores.
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
- Pricing: Be aware that prices are slightly higher than at big-box stores like Lowe’s or Menards. However, many shoppers find the superior service well worth the extra cost.
- Jeep Key Programming: The store offers key cutting and programming services for $85. If you only need a key cut (and can program it yourself) this price may be considered excessive.
- One Staff Member’s Attitude: One cashier, Kelly, is noted for having a less-than-pleasant demeanor. While this is just one person, it’s worth considering if outstanding customer service is a top priority.
