All I wanted was some wine gums!

Alas…it wasn’t meant to be.

I’ll cut it to you quickly, for an upcoming event that I’m taking part in planning (smirk), I needed some candy:

1) in large quantities

2) from a very specific set of manufactuerers

3) STAT

After unsuccesful attemps at perusing Costco (tried both the Yaletown Costco and the ‘other one’), and a few other sources, I thought I’d call the candy experts at The Candy Aisle (2083 West 4th Avenue).

About a week or so ago, I called The Candy Aisle in Kits and asked if they had two things: 1) Dare Ju Jubes (3 three bags of); and 2) Maynards Wine Gums (3 bags of). Specific?  Yes.

Kim, one of The Candy Aisle employees, told me on the phone that this was something she’d look into and was optimistic that they’d be able to special order.  A few days later (read: end-of-week) much to my dismay I was informed that the Dare and the Maynards order was not meant to be.  In fact, the manager, Jason, even emailed me back confirming that this was indeed the candy store coffin nail in my order.

Apparently, according to the staff at Costco, the manufacturers were no longer making ‘bulk’ bags of candy due to health concerns (read: individually wrapped was the cool way to do it now).

What I have a problem with is not the fact that The Candy Aisle couldn’t fill my order…that’s fine.  It’s business, not personal. And Jason’s follow-up, definitely was a nice touch. Instead:

1) With the urgency of the event and the need for an answer to my order inquiry, I would have appreciated a more rapid response (read: no, you can’t have your candy).

2) I’m disappointed (not with the result, but on principle) that a recent random visit to Safeway (at 4th and Vine) had me tripping over a gaggle of Maynards and Dare bulk bags of wine gums and ju jubes, respectively.

Timeliness with your customers inquiries is certainly smiled on.  Also, knowing that the 800 pound gorilla down the street can get them in, and keep stocking them until you can’t eat anymore, is probably good-to-know in advance (read: could have told me a week ago).

I was lucky…and our guests will be happy.

darren