There's no telling what big box store marketers will come up with next! Right now, many nationally and right here in metro Atlanta offer unexpected services sort of in their scope of business, but not the first thing you'd guess. A few are free. Others are big moneymakers for the stores. Here are a few that are intriguing:
Target
College registries: Sure, they still have baby and wedding registries, but college students can now set up a list of wants and needs for friends and family to access. This happens only online.
Lowe's
One-off installation services: Sure, we all know Lowe's will hook up your appliances, but did you know they'd also send someone out to install your garage door opener, toilet or blinds?
Free delivery even on Sundays. They'll schedule seven days a week.
Paint matchmaker: Along with mixing and being pleasant while you drool over swatches, Lowe's will actually match your decor to a paint if you're able to bring them a sample of your fabric, carpet or flooring.
Translation, please: Lowe's language line phone service, available in most stores, taps a live phone translator to help customers speak to store employees--in more than 140 languages.
Costco
Freebies for the hearing impaired: Sure, they're trying to sell more of the premium hearing aid technology they offer at their Hearing Aid Center, but Costco Hearing Aid centers do offer free hearing tests, free follow-up appointments, hearing aid cleanings and check-ups.:
Bottled water delivery. You pay, they'll deliver bottled water to your home, not just the office, with purified and artisian available.
Health insurance marketplace. Costco plans including individual, short-term and vision care
Home Depot
Propane exchange. This is free with a gas grill purchase.
Free WiFi. Though they probably frown if you sit at their deck furniture displays all day to access it.
Sam's Club
Accountants for hire. At a member discount, of course.
Travel services. They'll help you find flights, hotels, travel packages, cruises, that sort of thing.
Unexpected tire installation benefits. When you buy your tires at the club, you get 24-hour emergency roadside tire service in the bargain and road hazard protection.
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