For some Best Buy’s Reward Zone members, an invitation came to a private event from 7:30 to 9:30 last night.  The rechargeable USB batteries were an incentive, to be given to the first 50 people to arrive.  My mom and I decided to make the trip, invitation card and member ID in tow.  We weren’t in much of a rush, arriving just 15-20 minutes prior to the start of the event.  It’s a good thing we showed up when we did – a line of 40 had already formed!  Thankfully, batteries were given per member card, so we were well within the first 50 to show up and get a slip to exchange for the free gift.

After waiting in the cold for anywhere from 20-30 minutes, the line began to move.  We heard some hootin’ and hollerin’ in the distance, which confused us until we reached the entrance.  Inside, all the employees of the store were standing facing us, clapping and cheering and ushering us in.  A lot of thank yous were thrown out and one of the guys standing on the checkout counter was holding a big sign that thanked us for being their loyal customers (or something to that effect).  I felt at once silly and appreciated, which was a great way to start their two-hour event.  Now that’s what I call a great way to shop!  It’s a pity I didn’t have my camera on hand to document the moment!

A raffle was held every fifteen minutes, with $50 gift cards given out.  Employees swarmed the place, offering help to those with questions.  Games of Rock Band and DJ Hero were set up for people to try and a special offer on Wiis was front and center by the checkout stations.  All in all it was a festive time and a truly great way for Best Buy to make their members feel special while priming them to be in a spending and jolly mood.  Now that’s the kind of service and experience more companies should go for!  After all, happy customers make loyal customers.