Dustin Klein
January 14, 2020 16:41
I cannot think of a worse value than CF at Logan Square. First off, my GF and I were completely mislead from the onset which put a horrible taste on our mouths. We were told we could try the executive membership (which includes WeFit) for two weeks or simply do a one week trial of the basic membership. All we had to do was pay about $10. As a rational consumer, I thought this was a great value. So, we proceeded to enroll in the two week offering. Within two weeks, we realized that the WeFit was just not what we were looking for. I went back to speak to the same sales rep and she informed me that it wasnt $16for two weeks... but $16 for three days. And I had subsequently been charged $75. She tried to backtrack and say she told me it was $16 for three days with the option to downgrade to the basic level after those three days. Simply, untrue. That is not at all what she told us. No rational consumer would opt to pay $16 for three days as opposed to getting a week free. During this conversation, I was calm, respectful, but also to the point. I called my GF after this and I did not tell her what happened as I wanted to hear her understanding. She reiterated the understanding I had as well so it clearly was not me misunderstanding during the signup process. Eventually, we got it resolved, but we did miss out on the trial which was a shame (as it was worth $22.50 per person).
CF later asked for member feedback in an email, "We thrive on member feedback and use it to get better every day. We hope you will take a few minutes to give us your candid feedback about your experience with us." So, I candidly provided feedback. While I was very blunt about the rep who "assisted" us, I was honest and did not use hostile language. The VP of Sales used my feedback as a means to portray me as a hostile member and threatened to terminate my membership if I continued this "disrespect" towards staff. Had I known my candid responses would be grounds for a threat, I would not have left any feedback whatsoever. This response employs poor customer relationship management and seeks to shelter the employees and business from honest feedback. (response is attached with names omitted)
Furthermore, the men's steam room was broken for around three months (at least from October - December). I have no idea if it has been fixed yet. No accommodations or concessions were provided to members. Additionally, the massage chairs were often out of service. If you are going to charge members this uncompetitive price, at least keep your facility in working order. Additionally, the treadmills often cut back on speed. Do not expect to perform HIIIT runs on them.
Overall, I am so glad I am no longer a member. Luckily, Planet Fitness opened right across the street. I will absolutely concede that City Fitness is a better equipped facility, but it lacks a faithful sales process and proper maintenance. For $10 a month (compared to $90 every four weeks at City Fitness), Planet Fitness wins hands-down. Hopefully CF will realize that they are losing market share and will take appropriate actions.