I purchased a shredder from Maplins, although the product was good overall quality, the boxes always seem to have been battered on the shelves (or is it just me?) the customer service is something which could definately be improved - specifically, the terrible habbit they have of following customers around the store, making you feel uncomfortable. As an overall rating, I would give them 3/5.

Maplin is one of those places you either love or hate. If you know what you want then all is well. If not, then you have to rely on the store staff and I've found that this can be 'hit or miss'. But in my local store, the staff are always willing to help out, and will get someone who can help.

To be realistic to get highly knowledgeable staff, in a high street store, with the range of products that maplin sell is going to be tricky (no offence young chaps of this world)

Yes the prices can be higher, but you tend to go to Maplin when you need something quick, and can't be bothered with the hassle of web buying (possibility of returns etc).