Specsavers refused me an eye test because I said I wouldn't be buying new glasses on the day ...

WilcoWotsit

I'd be really interested if anybody else has had this experience ...

Here's the story:  I'm overdue an eye test (covid got in the way) - I managed to book a test online with Specsavers for a month in advance (I've been a loyal customer for many years).  They called me the evening before to to a pre-check and do the form filling exercise (very sensible) - I told them I need a check up as my current prescription is giving me eye-strain headaches.  They stated that I'd have to select by replacement glasses in the same appointment due to the covid situation (again sensible).  I told them that at this point I just needed a test (I had other things to do and couldn't hang about and go through the rigmerole on the day) and I would re-book or perhaps buy them from them online (they do have an on-line service).  They then put me on-hold for five minutes (to talk to a manager) - and then told me rather coldly that 'respectfully' (pah!) they didn't want my business and to 'go somewhere else' for my test.  

So, I get time is precious and they need to make some money and covid's changed the rules ... 
but the customer 'service' from Specsavers was absolutely flipping awful.  And, I'm now looking for a new optician to spend my hard earned cash with.

JGB1955

Does your local Asda have an opticians?  I've found their customer service and professionalism way  beyond that of Specsavers.

WilcoWotsit

I'll check ASDA out thanks!

Neil49

My wife had no problem getting an eye test appointment with our local Specsavers some weeks ago and they didn't insist on her selecting frames at the same time either. 

I'm not sure but I think they operate on a franchise basis so each store could have a different approach. 

roddydogs

Rubbish, not my experience at all I just booked a test. No pushing to buy.

[Deleted User]

I recommend against ASDA opticians. While they are very kind, they botched my eye tests twice in a row (tried two different ASDA stores in the West Midlands). Glasses are ok though.

YBR

I generally go to a local independent optician rather than a chain. My family and I have always done that and the few times I've gone to chains I have regretted it. I'm happy to pay more for the better service and more reliable outcome, however, I now get my eye tests free.

Undervalued

WilcoWotsit said:

I'd be really interested if anybody else has had this experience ...

Here's the story:  I'm overdue an eye test (covid got in the way) - I managed to book a test online with Specsavers for a month in advance (I've been a loyal customer for many years).  They called me the evening before to to a pre-check and do the form filling exercise (very sensible) - I told them I need a check up as my current prescription is giving me eye-strain headaches.  They stated that I'd have to select by replacement glasses in the same appointment due to the covid situation (again sensible).  I told them that at this point I just needed a test (I had other things to do and couldn't hang about and go through the rigmerole on the day) and I would re-book or perhaps buy them from them online (they do have an on-line service).  They then put me on-hold for five minutes (to talk to a manager) - and then told me rather coldly that 'respectfully' (pah!) they didn't want my business and to 'go somewhere else' for my test.  

So, I get time is precious and they need to make some money and covid's changed the rules ... 
but the customer 'service' from Specsavers was absolutely flipping awful.  And, I'm now looking for a new optician to spend my hard earned cash with.

Had they conducted the test they would have been legally obliged to give you your prescription, which you could take where you please.

However I think they are entitled to refuse to test somebody if they suspect that might happen. 

[Deleted User]

YBR said:

I generally go to a local independent optician rather than a chain.

Where do you get a local independent optician nowadays? Maybe in small towns or some fashionable upmarket London neighbourhoods but defo not in big cities. I wonder if one can have a eye test at an NHS hospital.

tealady

ciaccino said:

YBR said:

I generally go to a local independent optician rather than a chain.

Where do you get a local independent optician nowadays? Maybe in small towns or some fashionable upmarket London neighbourhoods but defo not in big cities. I wonder if one can have a eye test at an NHS hospital.

I live in a big city an have 2 independents within a 2 mile radius of my home.
Having said that Google is your friend (other search engines are available)

suejb2

If you like Specsavers, you’re a loyal customer you say,  ring for an appointment and agree to buying glasses from them. However, get you script from them and walk out What can they do , lock you in?
I like another post go to an independent, much much better service and knowledge.