CompUSA is closing 126 of its stores due to financial woes. Its parent company, US Commercial Corp SA de CV, reported a loss of 45.7 million during the third quarter of 2007. This shutdown includes the store as well as the computer support division.
Is this good news or bad news for tech consumers? Well, based on our customer feedback, we have found that many had the same sentiments: “It’s about time!” Those who searched for laptops, digital cameras, or other computer equipment felt like the customer service was lacking in two areas: 1. the wait was too long and 2. the advice was not clear in terms of whether the product proposed was tested or if they were just trying to make a sale. In regard to their computer support, some users felt like their techs were not interviewed or screened thoroughly as shown by their inability to resolve issues as well as customer-service skills on-site. That disappointment is probably due to the fact that CompUSA’s hiring process was not in-person or on the phone, but entirely by completing an application online that was 95% approved.
The pricing overall by consumers’ feedback was grossly high, and the warranty, when provided, took app. 2-3 weeks. So, it is safe to assume CompUSA will not be missed.