When a trusted store closes, it’s like losing a friend

For some of us, it will be a sad day when RobinsonsMay closes its doors in Thousand Oaks. In an era when brick and mortar retailers are already facing tough competition from wholesale operations and Internet vendors, Robinsons-May provides knowledgeable and friendly sales help.

Some stores claim to offer service, but when you need somebody, most of the sales people seem to be in another area code or they’re hostile or their knowledge is nil.

Robinsons-May gives value for the customer’s money and bargain-conscious shoppers can find exceptional prices, especially during storewide sales. Robinsons-May routinely runs advertisements in major daily newspapers. The ads tell about new products and special prices, and often include money-saving coupons.

Robinsons-May knows merchandising. Products are presented neatly and enticingly. It’s fun to browse to find new clothes or other items. Shopping is a pleasant experience at the Thousand Oaks stores because they reinvent themselves to keep customers coming back.

Robinsons-May offers quality products everywhere and you don’t need a map to find your way around. Even the smell of the store is pleasant.

Robinsons-May gives shoppers at The Oaks an excuse to walk the length of the mall to visit both stores.

During the holiday season, gift-givers can get a big stuffed animal for just a few bucks if they spend a minimum amount of money. If the kids or grandchildren already have stuffed animals falling out of their closets, the new one will be loved by a Toys-for-Tots kid.

Consumers never win when a retailer closes its doors. Competition in department stores is good for all of us.

Losing a trusted retailer is like losing a friend.