You will have no doubt noticed that we have banner ads by Google at the top of the forum pages, I will point out now that we have no influence whatsoever as to the content of those ads, that is a matter for Google. However, I think it only right and proper to notify the members of FW regarding one of the companies used in the ads, that is, 'Simply-Electronics'

This company 'specialise' in digital cameras, particularly high end dslr's and lenses. Their prices are extremely attractive to anyone in the market for such goods, but please be aware that having researched them (yes I nearly bought from them recently!) I have discovered a growing tide of complaints and negative comments on several highly respected photography forums.

It would appear that firstly they are not UK based (I'm led to believe they are in China) their promise of a 2 to 5 day delivery is, apparently, very rarely met, with some people still without their goods 2 or 3 months down the line and finding themselves embroiled in complicated wrangles over refunds, their customer service is allegedly, virtually non-existent with e-mails unanswered etc and in some cases have apparently used excuses such as goods being found to be damaged (entire batches) and therefore not sent out (though not notifying the customers of this)

The most interesting tale (although I've not yet seen proof that it's 100% accurate!) is that they sent a damaged £3400 lens to a chap who had ordered a £190 compact camera, when he contacted them to tell them what he had received, they replied by asking him to send it on to the correct customer on their behalf!

I have found a few people who have bought from them with no problems at all, but they are not very many, however it would appear that on occasions they are capable of providing a 'proper' service. All I would ask is that you bear the above in mind if you are contemplating any sort of purchase, I wouldn't want to see FW members ripped off.

MarkJ.

I'd say the same was true for most China based companies really.