Jump to content
 

Markits - customer experiences


97xx
 Share

Recommended Posts

On 24/07/2020 at 16:55, hayfield said:

Use one of the many retailers who supply his products, they will be most pleased with your custom. Roxey Mouldings and 247 to name 2 who have given me sterling service

 

Alas, not so much now. Even Markit's retailers are having problems. I received a partial refund for an order with Roxey Mouldings, which included the following:

 

Quote

For many years I have extended the the number of their products that I stock. I have now waited over three months for my last order to be completed. I regret to say, I've had enough!

 

Dave then goes on to advise how to go about placing future orders. But it's clear that Roxey (and others?) are having similar frustrations with Markits.

 

Great products. I hope they don't disappear because of the owner's ambivalence/availability.

  • Like 1
  • Agree 3
Link to post
Share on other sites

7 minutes ago, truffy said:

Great products. I hope they don't disappear because of the owner's ambivalence/availability.

 

There must be more to this than meets the eye - it's almost as if Mark Ascott is deliberately undermining his own business.

 

Can anyone shed any light? I know that many / all Markits retailers are having extreme difficulty restocking the most basic items, let alone the more esoteric ones.

 

John Isherwood.

Link to post
Share on other sites

11 hours ago, truffy said:

 

Alas, not so much now. Even Markit's retailers are having problems. I received a partial refund for an order with Roxey Mouldings, which included the following:

 

 

Dave then goes on to advise how to go about placing future orders. But it's clear that Roxey (and others?) are having similar frustrations with Markits.

 

Great products. I hope they don't disappear because of the owner's ambivalence/availability.

 

11 hours ago, cctransuk said:

 

There must be more to this than meets the eye - it's almost as if Mark Ascott is deliberately undermining his own business.

 

Can anyone shed any light? I know that many / all Markits retailers are having extreme difficulty restocking the most basic items, let alone the more esoteric ones.

 

John Isherwood.

 

I have no contact with Mark other than being a satisfied customer, but I now buy the Markit items I require from either Dave at Roxey or 247 models, both offer excellent service

 

As it happens I was in my local model shop yesterday and Markits came up in discussion, we had a smile, Mark is Mark and an extremely nice person to have a chat with and makes excellent products, just a little hard to speak with at times

 

I assume his problem is in maintaining production and operating a wholesale and retail business. The easy answer is to get staff, but will the business support more than one person ?, secondly where do you get someone with the knowledge of the companies vast product range. I guess in someway he is a victim of his own success. To me its far easier to order the bits from a retailer and let Mark get on with making items

 

   

 

 

  • Like 1
  • Agree 3
Link to post
Share on other sites

26 minutes ago, hayfield said:

 

 

I have no contact with Mark other than being a satisfied customer, but I now buy the Markit items I require from either Dave at Roxey or 247 models, both offer excellent service

 

As it happens I was in my local model shop yesterday and Markits came up in discussion, we had a smile, Mark is Mark and an extremely nice person to have a chat with and makes excellent products, just a little hard to speak with at times

 

I assume his problem is in maintaining production and operating a wholesale and retail business. The easy answer is to get staff, but will the business support more than one person ?, secondly where do you get someone with the knowledge of the companies vast product range. I guess in someway he is a victim of his own success. To me its far easier to order the bits from a retailer and let Mark get on with making items

 

 

This completely overlooks the fact that even the retailers cannot source much of the Markits range - when we get to that stage, the future viability of Markits must come into question.

 

No matter that Mark is a nice guy - if you manufacture a range of components you have to be able to supply them to customers; or you may as well give up!

 

John Isherwood.

Link to post
Share on other sites

1 hour ago, cctransuk said:

 

This completely overlooks the fact that even the retailers cannot source much of the Markits range - when we get to that stage, the future viability of Markits must come into question.

 

No matter that Mark is a nice guy - if you manufacture a range of components you have to be able to supply them to customers; or you may as well give up!

 

John Isherwood.

 

50 minutes ago, Denbridge said:

I read all these posts explaining negative experiences and find myself wondering if I deal with the same Markits. I've never had a single problem over many many dozens of orders. 

 

 

1 hour ago, hayfield said:

 

 

I have no contact with Mark other than being a satisfied customer, but I now buy the Markit items I require from either Dave at Roxey or 247 models, both offer excellent service

 

As it happens I was in my local model shop yesterday and Markits came up in discussion, we had a smile, Mark is Mark and an extremely nice person to have a chat with and makes excellent products, just a little hard to speak with at times

 

I assume his problem is in maintaining production and operating a wholesale and retail business. The easy answer is to get staff, but will the business support more than one person ?, secondly where do you get someone with the knowledge of the companies vast product range. I guess in someway he is a victim of his own success. To me its far easier to order the bits from a retailer and let Mark get on with making items

 

   

 

 

 

I'd echo Denbridge's and Hayfield's points about never having had an issue dealing directly with Mark.  Perhaps as Hayfield suggests he needs some help about aspects of the business he doesn't enjoy, whatever those are, so he can focus on what he's good at.  If the admin/sales side or even the planning side on what to make and when is challenging, there are plenty of people who can assist either directly or in partnership.  I'd particularly suggest those entities that run good B2C websites selling multiple products.

 

I don't think cctransuk's tone is helpful here.  We've seen in the past that where one person bands feel they are getting unjustly criticised on forum such as this, they may decide that it is simply not worth it and pack up shop.    I appreciate that there are lots of different views but where we are talking about individuals, we should try and be encouraging, offer solutions rather than posting negatively.

 

Link to post
Share on other sites

14 minutes ago, Clearwater said:

 

 

 

 

I'd echo Denbridge's and Hayfield's points about never having had an issue dealing directly with Mark.  Perhaps as Hayfield suggests he needs some help about aspects of the business he doesn't enjoy, whatever those are, so he can focus on what he's good at.  If the admin/sales side or even the planning side on what to make and when is challenging, there are plenty of people who can assist either directly or in partnership.  I'd particularly suggest those entities that run good B2C websites selling multiple products.

 

I don't think cctransuk's tone is helpful here.  We've seen in the past that where one person bands feel they are getting unjustly criticised on forum such as this, they may decide that it is simply not worth it and pack up shop.    I appreciate that there are lots of different views but where we are talking about individuals, we should try and be encouraging, offer solutions rather than posting negatively.

 

 

 

Clearwater

 

Just to clarify a point. I am not in a position to say if Mark needs help or not, if it reads this was I apologize. Quite a few years ago when chatting with Mark he told me how busy he was and how difficult it would be in finding someone with the detailed knowledge required in his highly specialized business.

 

Looking in from the outside I for one am happy to buy elsewhere at the same cost, which hopefully allows him more time in his business. For the more exotic items in his range you may well have to deal direct. (Find someone with old stock, it may be cheaper!!!)

 

I do know a lot more about C&L and its past. Its so easy to say employ staff. Many of these businesses make little or no profits for their owners. With C&L they have turned a corner, most if not all profits are being reinvested back into the business so it has a future and new products. Running what is commonly termed a cottage industry is totally different from many larger businesses, many owners of this type of business have a day job!!!  

  • Like 1
  • Agree 1
  • Thanks 1
Link to post
Share on other sites

1 hour ago, cctransuk said:

 

This completely overlooks the fact that even the retailers cannot source much of the Markits range - when we get to that stage, the future viability of Markits must come into question.

 

No matter that Mark is a nice guy - if you manufacture a range of components you have to be able to supply them to customers; or you may as well give up!

 

John Isherwood.

 

John

 

I think in these times we all have to adjust, granted I was aware there were issues with wheels, but this was down to being reliant on a 3 party contractor who had the tool to do one particular job.

 

Until the shows stopped Mark was at all the local shows talking to his retailers and in some instances delivering stock. the two retailers I have spoken with have stated Mark is difficult to contact not impossible to contact, and they have stocks of the parts they require.

 

We all get used to Amazon delivering the next day, smaller retailers/suppliers cannot compete with these time scales. I know if I need track parts either from C&L or the EMGS I must allow 7 - 14 days delivery. If I run out its my fault for not ordering in time

 

I wanted some Peco rail, took me weeks to get it via my model shop. Peco is a great company who normally send by return, even it had issues. Looking at what's happened this year the Model Railway trade has responded excellently, thank you

 

 

Link to post
Share on other sites

35 minutes ago, Clearwater said:

I don't think cctransuk's tone is helpful here.

 

Please don't misinterpret me - I would be devastated if Markits products ceased to be available.

 

I have been content to make my purchases of the (reduced) Markits range via retailers, but have become concerned when every single retailer that I have dealt with recently tells the same tale of endless waits for deliveries of orders.

 

The danger is that retailers will conclude that the hassle that comes with stocking Markits products is not worth it, and a reliable source of those products becomes nonexistent.

 

I would be the first to applaud the creation of a predictable system for distributing Markits fantastic (but currently theoretic) range but, regretably, I cannot see that happening under present circumstances.

 

Of late, an all too familiar tale.

 

John Isherwood.

 

Link to post
Share on other sites

18 minutes ago, hayfield said:

 

 

Clearwater

 

Just to clarify a point. I am not in a position to say if Mark needs help or not, if it reads this was I apologize. Quite a few years ago when chatting with Mark he told me how busy he was and how difficult it would be in finding someone with the detailed knowledge required in his highly specialized business.

 

Looking in from the outside I for one am happy to buy elsewhere at the same cost, which hopefully allows him more time in his business. For the more exotic items in his range you may well have to deal direct. (Find someone with old stock, it may be cheaper!!!)

 

I do know a lot more about C&L and its past. Its so easy to say employ staff. Many of these businesses make little or no profits for their owners. With C&L they have turned a corner, most if not all profits are being reinvested back into the business so it has a future and new products. Running what is commonly termed a cottage industry is totally different from many larger businesses, many owners of this type of business have a day job!!!  

The problem with suggesting Mark employs help with aspects of the business is cost. If he decided to take that route, there would be a thread full of people whining and complaining that the product was too expensive. He can't win.

Perhaps people just need to understand he is a small business, working on his own and address their dealings with him accordingly. As I said I've had no problems at all. In fact when I've spoken with him, I find him unfailingly helpful.

  • Agree 2
Link to post
Share on other sites

10 minutes ago, hayfield said:

 

John

 

I think in these times we all have to adjust, granted I was aware there were issues with wheels, but this was down to being reliant on a 3 party contractor who had the tool to do one particular job.

 

Until the shows stopped Mark was at all the local shows talking to his retailers and in some instances delivering stock. the two retailers I have spoken with have stated Mark is difficult to contact not impossible to contact, and they have stocks of the parts they require.

 

We all get used to Amazon delivering the next day, smaller retailers/suppliers cannot compete with these time scales. I know if I need track parts either from C&L or the EMGS I must allow 7 - 14 days delivery. If I run out its my fault for not ordering in time

 

I wanted some Peco rail, took me weeks to get it via my model shop. Peco is a great company who normally send by return, even it had issues. Looking at what's happened this year the Model Railway trade has responded excellently, thank you

 

 

Also bear in mind that everytime he stops to answer the phone is time he's not getting things done. So keeping your enquiries short and to the point is no doubt welcomed.

  • Agree 1
Link to post
Share on other sites

Many of those we rely on are one man bands, some having full or part time jobs, many getting older and keeping the businesses running as there is no one to take it over

 

Plus many used to rely on shows as an important part of their trading, even if its only to show the quality of items for future purchases. Increased mail orders are something both new to many and they are getting used to handling larger volumes, then its traders internet presence which they have to master

 

Its back to the old days when things took a week or two 

Link to post
Share on other sites

58 minutes ago, hayfield said:

Many of those we rely on are one man bands, some having full or part time jobs, many getting older and keeping the businesses running as there is no one to take it over

 

Plus many used to rely on shows as an important part of their trading, even if its only to show the quality of items for future purchases. Increased mail orders are something both new to many and they are getting used to handling larger volumes, then its traders internet presence which they have to master

 

Its back to the old days when things took a week or two 

 

You may be confident that I fully understand the constraints of one-man-bands; aging and internet trading.

 

My sole concern in the case of Markits is that I have detected a change in the attitude of retailers from amused tolerance to marked frustration, or even loss of patience. This cannot be good for Markits or for us retail customers.

 

I do not criticise Markits or make judgements; I merely express concern at a worrying development.

 

John Isherwood.

Link to post
Share on other sites

  • 3 weeks later...

Since everybody else has added their tuppence worth...

I had cause to ask a cottage supplier a few questions- as a returning modeller, I am out of touch and I needed some info:

"Hello is that [company name]? I'm sorry to bother you, but I have a couple of basic questions about availability/ compatability and how to place orders. is now a good time or if you're busy I can leave it for now."

Acknowledging people can be really busy- showing them the respect that their time is important, goes a long way.

I only recall meeting Mr Markits once and yes, he can be quite abrasive, but his stuff is really good. You wouldn't go to a Diplomat for specialist engineering products, so I suppose you shouldn't expect an engineer to be a Diplomat either.

Link to post
Share on other sites

5 hours ago, Derekstuart said:

You wouldn't go to a Diplomat for specialist engineering products, so I suppose you shouldn't expect an engineer to be a Diplomat either.

When in business, some proficiency in diplomacy is a distinct advantage. 

  • Like 1
  • Agree 3
Link to post
Share on other sites

4 hours ago, truffy said:

When in business, some proficiency in diplomacy is a distinct advantage. 

I agree entirely.

 

However, behind the facade of all that 'customer is always right' that you will get from the big PLCs, they really don't treat you that well- you're just a number. I personally find it refreshing to find someone who speaks their mind. As above, if you have an awkward question then a "...I'm sorry to bother you// is now a good time?" goes a long way.

 

Please don't think I'm spoiling for an argument on that as I'm not. Only observing the difference between the way things should be and the way they are.

  • Agree 1
Link to post
Share on other sites

You are so right about large companies, to start with they make it very hard to contact them, let alone complain. Quite often they bore you to death with mundane and usually irrelevant initial telephone message, that's before you actually get to the second section with a list of options. then it seems they make you wait for ages with an excuse "its because everyone is working from home". Funny that if you call the same companies sales department its answered instantly. 

 

 

 

 

  • Like 1
  • Agree 2
Link to post
Share on other sites

  • RMweb Premium

Just been trying to buy some Markits wheels.

Anybody got any?

Just tried Wizard, where I got my last set from, tried to buy 6, only one in stock, Roxey OOS (and other places)

Just bought a set of frames to upgrade a loco and I can't get my preferred Markits wheels.......

I suppose I could fall back to Alan Gibson's wheels, where I have just received a load of other stuff from (all in stock)

Link to post
Share on other sites

1 minute ago, melmerby said:

Just been trying to buy some Markits wheels.

Anybody got any?

Just tried Wizard, where I got my last set from, tried to buy 6, only one in stock, Roxey OOS (and other places)

Just bought a set of frames to upgrade a loco and I can't get my preferred Markits wheels.......

I suppose I could fall back to Alan Gibson's wheels, where I have just received a load of other stuff from (all in stock)

 

See my post of 22/09/20 above - the supply situation has now gone beyond the merely frustrating.

 

What is the point of having (theoretically) a huge range of fantastic wheels and other components, if your retailers are unable to source even the most basic range of wheels?

 

Something is very wrong, I fear ......

 

John Isherwood.

Link to post
Share on other sites

  • RMweb Gold

I placed an order a few weeks ago from Wizard, many of the items being from Markits. I was advised that they have been waiting weeks for a re supply from Markits. No other stockists have the items either so am currently in limbo with a couple of un finished projects. Might try calling Markits directly or go to AGW instead.

Link to post
Share on other sites

  • RMweb Gold
12 hours ago, polybear said:

South Eastern Finecast stock some Markits bits, including wheels and axles - their website gives a download of their pricelist.  You might be lucky....

I took a look but they didnt show the sizes i needed (6'9 wheels for royal scot and compound).

  • Friendly/supportive 1
Link to post
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
 Share

×
×
  • Create New...