I guess
that everyone that ever spent some time in Helsinki, even if it might have been
just one day, will know Stockmann. It is the biggest warehouse in the Nordic
countries and fills up a whole block at Mannerheimintie. Meanwhile the
Stockmann Group has over 700 stores in 15 countries but it all started in
Helsinki. Heinrich Franz Georg Stockmann from Lübeck arrived in Finland in
1852. He worked as a manager for a shop of Nuutajärvi Glassworks. In 1862 he took control of the
business.
This year Stockmann celebrates its 150th birthday. For that reason
there are lots of special events and campaigns planned for 2012. So you should
keep your eyes open to announcements.
Let’s face
it: Stockmann is one of the most expensive places in Helsinki but it has a huge
variety. Whatever you are searching for, you’ll find it there. And with the
discounts they often have you might even get a pretty good deal.
What you need to get those discounts is a customer card. This year only they give
it away for free and it is valid for 10 years. With this card you get discounts
of up to 20 % on selected products. And that can really pay off.
The really
cool thing is that they create your personal card right when you apply for it.
They have a special machine there. So you don’t have to wait for your card to
arrive via mail.
... and what about putting back those nice ladies in the lifts, just like in the old times (pictures from the 1930s)? Well, there has been some talks about that project recently - I still wonder how it would work in our modern times' rush hours and sales seasons! A good way for any employee to go insane at work in only 1 hour... But after all, at Stockmann's what the client wants, the client gets. Best customer service in Finland, undoubtedly.
