's response:
A Mixed Bag of Reviews: Tasman Butchers Mt Waverley
Tasman Butchers in Mount Waverley, located at 443 Blackburn Rd, VIC 3149, proudly boasts a 4.3-star rating and a reputation for top-quality meat. Their extended opening hours (8 AM – 7 PM Monday to Friday, and 8 AM – 5 PM on Saturday and Sunday) cater to busy schedules, and offering both delivery and in-store shopping options for added convenience. Accessibility is also a priority, with a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot. Many customers highlight the value and variety available, often visiting weekly to stock up on fresh produce and an impressive meat selection. The ability to request custom cuts, like expertly sliced steaks, is a frequently lauded service, consistently mentioned as a significant perk. The shop accepts credit and debit cards, along with NFC mobile payments, providing flexible payment options. However, as with any establishment, experiences vary, and this review pulls together a range of perspectives, both positive and negative.
The Good: Quality Meat, Friendly Faces & Convenient Services
The overwhelming sentiment regarding Tasman Butchers revolves around the quality of their meat. Customers frequently describe the products as “fresh, amazing” and highlight the advantages of buying in bulk, praising the better pricing that comes with larger purchases. Here's a breakdown of the positive comments regularly voiced:
- Meat Excellence: The core offering receives consistent praise. Customers return regularly for the freshness and quality, repeatedly using phrases like "fresh amazing meats.”
- Helpful Staff & Custom Cuts: The staff are generally perceived as friendly and willing to assist. Many appreciate the butcher’s expertise and the convenience of having meat cut to their exact specifications, particularly for steak preparations. This personal touch adds significant value to the shopping experience.
- Bulk Buying Benefits: Access to bulk purchases is considered a valuable advantage, offering significant savings, thereby delivering good value.
- Accessibility & Convenience: The store's accessibility features (wheelchair access & parking) are an asset. The long opening hours also allow for shopping at different times.
- Cashier Positivity: Several reviewers specifically call out the friendliness and efficiency of the cashier staff, contributing to an overall positive transactional experience.
"I visit the store once a week and the staffs there are very nice to me. The service of cutting or chopping is great!" – Regular Customer
Addressing the Concerns: Customer Service & Seafood Quality
While the majority of feedback is positive, recurring criticisms center on customer service inconsistencies and issues with seafood quality. These points require attention to maintain the high standard Tasman Butchers aims to uphold.
- Inconsistent Customer Service: A significant concern is the reported rudeness from certain staff members, particularly in the meat cutting area. Several customers specifically mentioned the same individual, suggesting a potential training or attitude issue that needs addressing. This contrasts sharply with the positive experiences with other staff members.
- Seafood Issues (Prawns): One customer’s experience with a 3kg box of prawns purchased around Christmas was notably negative. They described the prawns as "tough and rubbery" with "very soft shells," suggesting a potential issue with the freshness or quality of the seafood supply. While the manager took swift action (see "Resolution & Response" below), this highlights a vulnerability in the supply chain.
- Limited Assistance During Peak Times: Some patrons have noted difficulty obtaining assistance from butchers during busier periods (around 4 PM). This can detract from the experience and negate the benefits of in-store expertise.
- Receipt Handling: One customer reported purchasing a lamb shoulder which exhibited a "super sour" smell, and expressed regret for not having retained the receipt. Stronger reminder signage about keeping receipts could enhance customer assurance.
Resolution & Response: Taking Ownership and Building Trust
The management at Tasman Butchers has demonstrated a commendable approach to addressing customer complaints, particularly regarding the prawn incident. Miles, the manager, proactively reached out to the customer, acknowledging the issue and taking responsibility for the quality despite sourcing the seafood from a "trusted" supplier. This swift and sincere response, along with an offer for a “great outcome,” was well-received by the affected customer and showcases a commitment to customer satisfaction.
The situation highlights an important lesson regarding supplier accountability. While Tasman Butchers may rely on external providers, it’s crucial to ensure stringent quality control measures and regular checks of their suppliers’ products. This includes:
- Supplier Audits: Implementing regular audits of seafood suppliers to ensure they adhere to quality and freshness standards.
- Improved Communication: Establishing clearer communication channels with suppliers to proactively address potential quality concerns.
- Customer Feedback Loop: Utilizing customer feedback, such as this review, to continuously improve the quality of products and services.
- Staff Training: Intensifying customer service training, especially for those in the meat cutting area, to ensure every customer interaction is positive and professional.
- Receipt System: Promote and facilitate the receipt system to give customers reassurance and easy access to returns.
By actively addressing these concerns and continuing to deliver on their promise of high-quality meat, Tasman Butchers can solidify its position as a leading butcher shop in Mount Waverley.