Scottish Independant Retailer of the Year 2008

by Ian Russell.

HAPPY customers give the thumbs-up to local retailer.

In fact customers are so pleased with the service they receive from JH Donald, the company can once again say they are 'first in Scotland'.

The firm, which has shops in Kilmarnock, Hurlford, Irvine, Ayr and Girvan, has come tops in a nationwide survey on customer satisfaction.

J H Donald were highlighted as providers of first class customer service at the 2008 Retailer of the Year awards, sponsored by specialist appliance plan providers Domestic and General.

It's a repeat of their success at the 2007 awards which are in their 10th year and represent one of the largest independent surveys within the retail industry. The results are based on the results of responses to a UK wide survey sent to more than 250,000 customers after purchasing an electrical appliance.

The company offers advice and free installation on new products, ranging from the latest LCD televisions to state-of-the art kitchen appliances. Most products are also available for rental ensuring the customer has no repair worries or capital outlays.

With a workforce of 48, the firm was established in Darvel in 1952. The group was founded by Jim Donald and is now run by Jim's son Reg. Free delivery is another service offered by the local outfit, distinguishing it from some of the big high street chains. And the personal touch goes down well with customers too. Well informed staff, many of whom have been with the company for 25, 30 and even 40 years, are often involved with repeat business.

Alongside its thriving retail business, J H Donald has it's own repair service and remains the only manufacturer-trained service agents for LCD and Plasma televisions within the Ayrshire area, in addition to their long established kitchen appliance repair operation.

Said Reg Donald: "We are delighted our customers have taken the time to vote for us, ensuring we were again successful at these industry recognised awards."

And he has this message for customers: "If you are offered a better deal elsewhere we want to know about it and will attempt to match it if we can. We are not the biggest and not the smallest, but we always look after our customers."