Shop Makers Metrotown — Local services in Burnaby

This shop is my go-to for cards and gifts, but it lacks transparency.

I've been shopping here for years, and it was only this week that I realised I was being charged an extra service fee of over 10%.

This shop does not offer paper receipts. And as far as I can tell, does not explain what this "service fee" is, nor does it declare that the customer will be charged this.

It seems a big dodgy that the customer cannot see what's being charged on the teller's ipad, AND they don't offer paper receipts. This feels like manipulation to hide the secret fee. As I said, I've been shopping here for years and only now noticed the extra charge. I think they're banking on customer's being in a rush and not wanting to take the time to explain their email address for a receipt.

I thought the total was higher than expected, so instead of being lazy, I finally typed in my email address to get an email receipt. Now I know.

So to the shop managers, I suggest this: -have signage declaring the service charge and why it's being charged -have the teller turn their ipad to the customer to show all the items rung in, and the service fee, before asking for payment.

With these modifications for transparency, I will feel a lot better shopping here. Right now, I feel manipulated.

In addition, why not charge tax? As far as I can tell, these products are all...

Love that this is here at Metrotown! Finally a place for small businesses/local makers to show their wares. A local business I follow shared that there is a lot of theft at Metrotown, which is unfortunate. Please don't steal from these small businesses :(

The staff here do a great job being available and asking if we need assistance with our shopping. I also saw them restocking shelves for various creators, which is such a nice service for the business owners. They're knowledgable about the various businesses and offerings on the shelves and they are the first line of defense against theft and damage. I appreciate The Nooks business model where 100% of sales go to the business owner (ie. a $36 candle) and they are transparent about the 15% service fee that the customer pays (15% on top of the $36) that goes towards The Nooks.

I have discovered many cute small businesses here that I will continue to support! Shoutout to @makemerri for cute crochet goodies and @reusablebbtcup reusable cups for bubble tea, @melioracandlecompany for soy wax candles, @_dsigns.byheart for cat toques, and I can't remember the name of the washi tape brand by the door but those are...

Long story short, I had an unexpectedly fascinating shopping experience at this store as I rarely browse handcraft items...

A special shout-out to Alice, who was not only polite and courteous but also remarkably knowledgeable!

Upon entering the store, she greeted me with a warm, friendly smile and asked what brought me into the store today. After understanding my needs, she offered valuable recommendations and personalized the conversation.

During a quiet moment in the store, Alice checked in with me again. She graciously provided some background information on the artists, explained features and values in simple terms, and allowed me ample time and space to make my decision—no hard sales at all.

While I initially came in to browse and gather ideas, I ended up spending about $130 on multiple items ( 2 knitting / 3 chilli sauces). but I think it is worth every penny as I see the value.

Special thanks to Alice for exceeding my expectations. I plan to return for more gifts for my clients...