I want to begin this review by stating that I own a considerable number of Michael Kors bags, so I am very familiar with the brand and the level of quality and service I have come to expect. Unfortunately, my experience at the Michael Kors Foxwoods location in Connecticut has been one of the poorest-run retail experiences I have encountered, both professionally and personally.
From the moment I interacted with the staff, I found them to be disengaged, unhelpful, and, at times, incredibly rude.
I was given the wrong bag at the register and did not realize the mistake until I opened the package the following day. Mistakes happen, and I initially called the store without any anger or concern, simply expecting the issue to be corrected. Instead, while explaining the situation, I was not placed on hold when the associate contacted the acting manager. I could hear the entire interaction between the associate and manager, and the tone and energy of that conversation were extremely unprofessional. The underlying impression was that my issue was viewed as a bother rather than something the store should simply take responsibility for and resolve.
I was subsequently sent a box to return the incorrect item, which I carefully and neatly packaged before sending it back. What I received in return was honestly shocking. The replacement bag was sent in a carelessly packaged box with large gaps that left the item inadequately protected. The filler paper had been removed, despite the fact that it is important for maintaining the shape of the bag, and there was an unidentifiable stain on the bottom of the item.
Originally, I asked to speak with the Regional Manager, but I was refused that information. I was, however, able to locate the information myself rather quickly. Rather than contacting the Regional Manager directly, I called Michael Kors headquarters to formally complain about the way I had been treated. I was assured that someone would reach out to me. More than a week has now passed, and no one has contacted me.
What concerns me most is that this does not appear to be an isolated mistake. Staff members were standing around talking to one another rather than engaging with customers. The wrong merchandise was handed to a customer, and when the mistake was brought to the store’s attention, the response was dismissive and unprofessional. Then, the replacement merchandise was shipped as though the item had little to no value, with very little care given to protecting the product or maintaining its presentation.
There is a serious lack of professionalism and attention to detail at this location, and unfortunately, there appears to be very little accountability.
As someone who has worked in this industry for many years and understands the business from both sides of the fence, I would absolutely want to know if a location was being operated this way. Based on the conversation I overheard, I have a strong impression that the store is already aware there are ongoing issues that are not being adequately addressed.
I am extremely disappointed. I have been a loyal Michael Kors customer and own many of the brand’s bags, but this experience has made me seriously question whether I want to continue supporting the brand through this location—or purchasing Michael Kors altogether.
Customers remember how they are treated. If you consistently make customers feel like an inconvenience, eventually they stop coming back. And they talk about their experiences.
I sincerely hope Michael Kors corporate takes the time to investigate what is happening at this location, because the level of service I experienced does not reflect the quality or reputation I have associated with the brand.