Red Coral. Best LFS in Western Canada?

[bhazard1]

I've dealt with quite a few of the vendors in Western Canada. I don't think I'll find the need to shop elsewhere after my experiences with Kevin at Red Coral (although the Online store should be a priority).

My first experience with Kevin was about 13 months ago when I purchased some livestock off him (4 fish). He gave me 20% off his already reasonable prices as he was having a livestock sale at the time. He did so even though 1. I was from out of town, 2. I wasn't price shopping and he had what I wanted. Everything arrived as expected and was healthy and in great condition. Happy to report that everyone is still thriving to date! Red Coral carries quality livestock.

My second experience was when I was in Calgary a few months later and had a few hours to burn. I had a flight home so couldn't take anything with and didn't purchase anything. Met Kevin in person. He is so personable it almost makes you feel at home being there! Even though he knew I wouldn't be buying anything, he took the time to show me around and pointed out some of the more interesting livestock he had in at the time.

My third experience was just recently. I was looking at getting a new light fixture and called and spoke to Kevin. I was interested in the Giessmann Infinity. Kevin suggested that I go with a Maristar fixture instead (less than half the price of the Giessmann). I asked about his pricing and he said it was the same price as what was listed on Sunlight supply's website. I was somewhat shocked as usually you can expect to pay up to half again as much in Canada on the suggested retail pricing in the US. In the end I didn't buy a fixture. What I did get out of the discussions with Kevin was that he doesn't try to sell you something you don't need, he gives you honest pricing, and he'll give you his honest opinion.

Fast forward to yesterday. My new Vertex Illumina LED I purchased from Red Coral arrived safe and sound. I had called Kevin again a few weeks later when I figured out what I wanted going forward regarding lighting (either the Vertex Illumina or AI modules). The fixture took about 5 weeks to arrive from the manufacturer. Kevin kept me up to date with delivery dates as there were some delays due to customs etc... and shipped it out the day after he received it.

I can honestly say I've never experienced customer service like this before. The experience was always great whether I was buying a few fish, or nothing, or the latest in LED lighting. Red Coral has a customer for life, if you haven't dealt with Kevin yet you should see what you're missing. Great service, and great prices.

[Wingin It]

+1 He is awesome in my books! RC is the only store I buy corals from!

[Jfish]

Sounds like a pretty sweet store. One of these days there will be a roadtrip out there to check it out and haul back some coral. If the timing was ever right on a cheap 160+ setup it would actually prompt me to do it but in the meantime i'll stick with Bayside in Saskatoon. If you have never dealt with Colby he is knowledgeable and helpful and has never gave me a reason to shop elsewhere.

[The Grizz]

Kevin, Doug and Carmen are AWESOME to deal with and visit. You will never get any better customer service any where like you get when you deal with the RED CORAL GANG.

[SAMSHUNG]

West of Alberta...I think we have some pretty good stores as well. J&L, Ocean Aquatics, and Oceanic Corals employee some of the best fish/coral people I've ever personally met. (Generally) I think Reefers are good natured people to begin with.

[fishoholic]

I have to agree with Red coral being one of the best (Blue world being the other). I just recently went to Calgary and I have to say Kevin and Doug are awesome, excellent costumer service nice sps frags and good guys all around

[Red Coral Aquariums]

Thank You everyone (or I should say since it is Stampede time (THANKS Y'ALL) for your kind comments. It is a pleasure and enjoyment to share in this great hobby.

Kevin

[meenamjah]

I agree... I've always had a positive experience going there. come to think, I'm on canreef thanks to Kevin as well, which I'm very thankful for.