Pros 
Cons Sunny Meat AUS: A Butcher Shop with Quality, Value, and Charm!
Sunny Meat AUS, now operating as Plan Meat, has carved out a solid reputation in Lidcombe, evidenced by its impressive 4.6-star rating. Located at 122-124 Platform St, Lidcombe NSW 2141, the shop is easily accessible with a wheelchair-friendly entrance. While credit card payments aren't currently accepted, the positive reviews overwhelmingly suggest the value proposition more than compensates. This isn't just your average butcher; it's evolved into a mini-market offering a surprising variety of fresh produce and grocery items alongside its premium meat selection. Opening hours are consistent, Monday to Friday and Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM, with Sundays offering a well-deserved rest. Let's dive into what sets Sunny Meat AUS apart, the good, the areas for improvement, and why locals keep returning.
The Heart of the Matter: Quality, Value, and Friendly Faces
The recurring theme throughout the reviews is exceptional quality and fantastic value for money. Customers consistently praise the freshness of the meat and the reasonable prices, often noting that some items are even cheaper than at major supermarket chains like Woolworths and Coles. Here's a breakdown of what customers appreciate:
- Premium Quality Meat: Phrases like "absolutely amazing collection," "great quality," and "fantastic meats" are commonplace. This indicates a dedication to sourcing and providing high-grade cuts.
- Competitive Pricing: The shop's affordability is a major draw. Several reviewers explicitly mention finding better deals than at the larger supermarkets.
- Expanded Offering: The transformation into Plan Meat, incorporating fruit and vegetables, is a welcomed change. It provides a one-stop-shop feel for convenient grocery needs.
- Exceptional Staff: The friendliness and helpfulness of the staff are consistently highlighted. Many specifically mention individual employees like 'Robin,' praising their excellent customer service. The general sentiment is that the staff are "very kind and nice."
- Positive Atmosphere: Overall, reviewers speak about a welcoming and pleasant shopping experience, marked by friendly interactions.
"Good price and quality meat. All staffs are nice." – A common sentiment expressed by many customers.
| Feature | Customer Feedback |
|---|---|
| Meat Quality | Consistently praised as excellent and fresh. |
| Price Point | Considered very competitive, often undercutting larger supermarkets. |
| Staff Friendliness | Overwhelmingly positive, described as "kind," "nice," and “excellent.” |
| Product Variety | Expanded to include fruit and vegetables, adding convenience. |
Areas for Attention: Policies and Customer Service Quirks
While overwhelmingly positive, some reviews reveal areas where Sunny Meat AUS could refine its practices. The most prominent concern revolves around inflexible portion sizes, particularly regarding the beef short ribs.
- Restricted Portion Sizes: One reviewer detailed being denied a request for 3kg of short ribs, being told they were only available in 2kg or 4kg pre-packaged bags. The staff member reportedly offered a reason relating to repackaging labour, which the customer found illogical as no signage indicated this restriction. This highlights a potential disconnect between policy and customer expectations.
- Need for Clear Communication: The lack of clear signage regarding pre-packed portions is a key issue. Communicating limitations proactively could prevent frustration and ensure smoother customer interactions.
- Policy Flexibility: While rules are necessary, greater flexibility in accommodating customer requests, when feasible, could drastically improve customer satisfaction. This doesn't necessarily mean abandoning pre-packing, but considering the possibility of fulfilling custom requests when stock allows.
- Payment Options: The absence of credit card payment can be an inconvenience for some, particularly for larger purchases. Considering adding this payment option could broaden accessibility to a wider customer base.
It's important to note these seemingly small issues are highlighted because the overall experience is so positive – customers are invested in the shop and passionate about its quality.
A Local Favourite: Why Plan Meat Continues to Thrive
Despite the minor points for consideration, Sunny Meat AUS (now Plan Meat) has clearly established itself as a beloved local establishment. The combination of high-quality meat, competitive pricing, and genuinely friendly service creates a compelling offering that keeps customers coming back. The expansion to include fresh produce is clearly a smart move, aligning with the desire for convenient and affordable grocery shopping.
The enduring popularity is demonstrably evident in the high rating and consistent positive reviews highlighting features like:
- Robin's Exceptional Service: This specific mention speaks to the impact of individual staff members delivering outstanding service.
- Word-of-Mouth Recommendation: Many reviews convey a sense of personal recommendation, suggesting existing customers actively encourage others to visit.
- Community Hub: Plan Meat seems to be more than just a shop; it’s a destination that provides a positive and helpful experience for the Lidcombe community.
- Long-Term Loyalty: The consistent return of customers underscores the value proposition and the building of lasting relationships.
The future looks bright for Plan Meat. Addressing the highlighted areas—particularly around policy flexibility and incorporating credit card payments—will only solidify their position as a leading butcher and go-to grocery provider in Lidcombe. Phone: +61 415 452 888.