Jim
Vancouver,#2Consumer Comment
Tue, June 08, 2004
I've been a customer of theirs for three deliveries. I've found the quality of their "raw" (unprepared) food to be quite good. Their precooked "food prepared by chefs" is not really that good. When I placed my second order, I noted (on the previous invoice which I kept) the food I was not happy with. They said they would sub it out for whatever else I liked. When I placed my second (and third) orders, I made it a point to order the unprepared food only. It may have taken them a month or two, but my replacement food order was shipped, and they did honor their guarantee. Some other advice in dealing with them: DO NOT participate in the "bonus plan" (I think you HAVE to order a minimum of 6 times to get an additional discount) unless you are 100% sure you are happy with the service/quality. Wait until 2 or 3 orders and find out if you really like them before making this comittment (which they WILL hold you to). I think this is similare to what you referred to when you said you were obligated to order from them two more times. AVOID buying anything but frozen food from them (Yes... even the freezer). The freezer they sell you is commercial grade (can be used in restaurants) but is not high quality (or worth it unless you pay it off right away). The knives, coockware, crystal and all other BS they justify as "next to free when you consider your ordering discount" during the Hard Sell is not worth it. The "$1000 minimum order" line is BS. I got that straight from their offices in CA. When they sent a salesman for my third order who said this was the case, I called their office and put him on the phone with them. I wouldn't say I'm a COMPLETELY satisfied customer, but I'm keeping a very close eye on them.
Ron
San Jose,#3UPDATE Employee
Wed, March 03, 2004
The imperial commercial freezer is an expensive but high quality freezer. It is rated by the underwriters laboratory to last 20-30 yrs of industrial use. Second, our warranty is not extra. Third, the best way to avoid any shady salesmen is to read your contracts thoroughly. I am a food rep, and I won't let a customer sign anything until they understand everything. I'm sure your interest rate was clearly marked on your paperwork. I am very sorry that you had this problem, and I can assure you that this would never happen in our Bay Area office.