If we don’t look after our customers someone else will
This slogan is written on the wall of Integra Tire Sicamous. On my way to Calgary I had the misfortune to get a puncture, at 8 a.m. just outside Sicamous. After making an enquiry with a local gas station, I was directed to Integra Tire. On arrival I read the notice in the window – open at 9 a.m.
Seeing a light on in the office, I knocked at the front door and I was quickly greeted with a smile from Taren who asked “what can we do for you?”
I explained about my puncture and that I was on my way to Calgary. I was keen to get going as quickly as possible. I understood the garage did not open till 9 a.m. but if they could fix it first thing that would be great.
Taren came out to my car and briefly examined the tireand said, “Don’t worry, some of the lads will be in around 8:30 a.m. and I will ask them to look at it and fix for you.”
Fifteen minutes later, Colin, who was still having his morning coffee, came out removed my wheel and examined the puncture. Yes, it needed a new tire and Colin showed and explained why.
While Colin was checking for a replacement tire, I sat in the office. No luck, no tire in stock and they would have to order one from nearby.
Phil, a customer, came to the rescue – he asked Taren on the quiet what size of tire I needed and on finding out he said he had three tires at home that would fit my car and I was most welcome to the best of them.
Phil went home, collected a tire and, lo and behold, it was fitted to my car. Off I went to Calgary.
Thanks to Phil who would not accept payment for his tire, his words to me were “you look like you need a break.” Phil works at Best Western Sicamous, so I say to you Best Western, you are very lucky to have such an employee and because of Phil you will be my hotel of choice.
Not to mention Integra Tire, who certainly lives their values and slogan: If we don’t look after our customers someone else will. You certainly looked after me.
Mel Clifford