Additional Coverage:
- 10 Kohl’s Problems That Frustrate Shoppers the Most (Especially #2) (financebuzz.com)
Kohl’s declining popularity: Is it worth shopping there anymore?
Kohl’s, once known for its reasonable prices, has seen a drop in popularity. Customers complain about rising prices, declining customer service, and other issues. The company itself anticipates a sales decrease of 4-6% this year.
Kohl’s Cash, the store’s rewards program, remains a source of frustration. Despite improvements, the system is complex, with multiple programs and potential blackout dates. Even tracking rewards accurately doesn’t guarantee they’ll apply as expected.
Sales prices aren’t always what they seem. Some former employees admit that prices are sometimes marked up before a sale, making the “discounted” price the original price.
Inflation is also driving customers away. While other stores strive to keep prices down, Kohl’s seems to have embraced inflation, pricing out its core middle-income customer base.
The sheer volume of merchandise in Kohl’s stores can be overwhelming. A disorganized or messy store can exacerbate this issue.
Shoppers browsing high-end items like perfume or handbags may find themselves closely followed by employees. While understandable due to the value of the merchandise, this practice can make shopping uncomfortable.
Online customer service through Kohls.com is reportedly unhelpful, even according to Kohl’s employees. Getting a helpful response, whether for online or in-store issues, seems difficult.
In-store shoppers are often pressured to apply for a Kohl’s credit card, even when they appear busy or in a hurry.
Kohl’s has also seen a shift in its brand offerings. Name brands that once drew customers have been replaced by lower-quality store brands or less reliable brands at higher prices. While name brands are still available in fragrances and accessories, the selection is limited.
Coupons at Kohl’s have also become problematic. Details and restrictions are often unclear or missing, leading to confusion at checkout and frustration for both customers and employees.
Finally, Kohl’s appears to be perpetually understaffed. While staffing shortages were common during the pandemic, other retailers have since recovered. Kohl’s struggles with employee retention, which often leads to longer wait times and a less pleasant shopping experience.
While Kohl’s continues to offer sales, the declining customer service and confusing discount options are major drawbacks. Shoppers should be aware of these issues before heading to Kohl’s.
Read More About This Story:
- 10 Kohl’s Problems That Frustrate Shoppers the Most (Especially #2) (financebuzz.com)