Consumer Reports Reveals Top Retailer for Buying Appliances

Some consumers question whether purchasing large appliances directly from manufacturers is more economical than choosing a traditional local retailer. For those who prefer the latter approach, selecting a retailer that prioritises customer satisfaction is crucial. Certain retailers implement additional measures to enhance the shopping experience.

Consumer Reports, a non-profit organisation, regularly conducts surveys among its members regarding their experiences with various brands and retail providers. In a recent survey involving over 9,700 respondents, members evaluated their satisfaction with large appliance stores, defining these appliances as washers, dryers, ovens, and refrigerators. The results highlighted the top-rated retailers for appliance purchases.

Surprisingly, the survey revealed that Abt Electronics, rather than well-known chains like Costco, Lowe’s, or Home Depot, achieved the highest customer satisfaction score among 23 retailers. Based in Glenview, Illinois, Abt Electronics operates one physical store and also sells online. While Costco ranked fifth, both Home Depot and Lowe’s were positioned in the lowest quartile of the survey results.

Abt Electronics’ success stems from its extensive 114,000 square-foot showroom, which features unique attractions such as a 7,500-gallon saltwater fish tank and complimentary chocolate chip cookies on weekends. The store received high praise in the survey for its atmosphere and scored well in categories such as brand selection, customer service, delivery, and website usability.

In comparison to Abt Electronics, Costco, while the highest ranking among national chains, scored lower in five of seven categories. Despite Costco’s reputation for competitive pricing, the survey indicates that Abt Electronics provides similar satisfaction regarding pricing. Following the results, both Home Depot and Lowe’s received average to low scores, challenging the assumption that big box retailers guarantee the best prices for large appliances.

How much do you know?

Which retailer achieved the highest customer satisfaction score according to the recent survey?

Costco

Home Depot

Lowe's

Abt Electronics

How many respondents were involved in the Consumer Reports survey?

5,000

7,500

9,700

10,500

What unique feature is found in Abt Electronics’ showroom?

An aquarium

A pet store

A chocolate factory

A bakery

Where is Abt Electronics located?

California

Illinois

New York

Texas

Which retailer ranked fifth in customer satisfaction?

Lowe's

Home Depot

Abt Electronics

Costco

In how many categories did Costco score lower than Abt Electronics?

2

3

5

7

Abt Electronics operates multiple physical stores across the country.

True False

The survey included more than 9,700 respondents.

True False

Home Depot received the highest customer satisfaction score.

True False

Costco ranked lower than both Home Depot and Lowe's in the survey.

True False

The survey indicated that big box retailers guarantee the best prices for large appliances.

True False

Complimentary chocolate chip cookies are offered at Abt Electronics on weekdays.

True False

Certain retailers implement additional measures to enhance the shopping .

Abt Electronics operates a showroom of square feet.

Costco was ranked in customer satisfaction among national chains.

The unique attraction at Abt Electronics is a fish tank.

Home Depot and Lowe's were positioned in the quartile of the survey results.

The appliances defined in the survey included washers, dryers, ovens, and .

This question is required