IN REPLY to Rita Crombleholme’s worthy niggle regarding the new John Lewis (Letters, April 30), I wish to add to the discussion.

I too visited this most wondrous store to buy a vacuum cleaner. Reaching a point in my life where I’m able to choose my purchases by shopping experience rather than just by price, I anticipated being treated regally by John Lewis.

I was rather surprised then to have to select a ticket on a piece of paper, pay at the till and collect the vacuum cleaner from a collection point.

Leaving the store carrying my own purchase I felt a sense of deja vu.

I realised as I drove through the beautifully landscaped car park that I’d just replicated the last time I made a purchase at Argos. The only difference being that the chairs in the waiting area were more comfortable.

I really did expect something more than that; loved the shop however.

Gladys Pickerwitch, Bad Bargain Lane, York.