Frequently Asked Questions

The following is a selection of the most frequently asked questions from our customers. If you have a question which is not listed below, please email us and we'll do our best to answer it.

To view an answer, simply click on a question.

1) The item I ordered was quite small but was delivered in a large box - doesn't this cost more or use more resources?

WStore work hard to minimise the resources and costs involved in our deliveries. By only offering two sizes of box we can optimise our buying power in purchasing quality recyclable materials - offering more flexible boxing options would inevitably lead to an increase in costs. We have also invested in packing systems which allowed smaller items to be secured properly with minimal packing materials, typically meaning we use 50% less packing material to secure our items that traditional suppliers.

2) In today’s environment there are many e-commerce sites opening and closing on the Internet. What proof have I got that if I commit my company’s resources to WStore, that it will still be operational in 6 months time?

For nearly 10 years WStore has been a major presence in the online IT market and while other online resellers have come and gone from this highly competitive market, WStore has continued to grow year on year. By developing strong partnerships with the leading manufacturers and distributors of our industry we consistently provide a high level of service and products to our customer base.

The WStore group has expanded and improved the services we can provide with our development division in Icom Software (a wholly owned subsidiary of WStore Europe SA) and the recent acquisition of Inmac. In 2006 the WStore group had a turnover of €320m illustrating the success of our commitment to our customers.

3) Do you have an evaluation or demonstration suite so that I can evaluate products?

WStore do not have a demonstration suite. The frequent change within IT lifecycles and the liability of wear and tear or mis-handling prevents us from offering this service. However, for qualified opportunities, we have access to evaluation equipment from all main manufacturers, which can be delivered and in most cases demonstrated directly by a representative of the manufacturer. We can also supply access to specialised equipment (such as large plasma/TFT displays and large server installations at custom-built facilities located around the country.

4) I recently upgraded to Windows XP and IE6 requires Java Virtual Machine to view your site, where can I download it from?

This essential component of Internet Explorer 6 can be downloaded directly from WStore. Click here

5) I don’t trust secured payment systems and am reluctant to give my credit card number on-line, what reassurances can you give me?

WStore’s reputable partner Datacash ensures credit card payment, via an encrypted transaction, so your banking information will never be found on the Internet. WStore takes further precautions by not storing credit card information on file at WStore.

Security and WStore server access
WStore's servers are located on a secured site. With this site, WStore provides its customers with firewall protection featuring anti-intrusion alert procedures, as well as online encrypt back-up and emergency procedures.

Protecting information other than transactional data
When you open an account, WStore uses the https protocol on SSL3 to protect the information you provide. WStore issues customers a password, to be entered at the same time as the login name, to access the information on the customer account. If you do not log on straight away but then proceed to place an order the system asks you to enter your password. For more peace of mind and convenience, especially with regular purchases, why not apply for a credit account with WStore. If you have any further doubts, or would prefer to order by telephone, contact the Help Desk on 01252 745000

6) I have received my delivery - how do I receive my invoice?

All invoices are generated on the day delivery is made and then sent via normal post - you will not receive an invoice with your goods. Please also note that invoices are generally issued on a per shipment basis, so if part-shipments or multiple shipments are made, more than one invoice will be received.

7) What are your current delivery charges?

Our current delivery charges are available here

8) How do you provide delivery anywhere in the UK within 24 hours?

The WStore system is highly automated with suppliers, customers and couriers. This enables us to quickly process orders during normal business hours for despatch anywhere within the UK.

9) What is WStore’s returns policy?

WStore are concerned primarily with the satisfaction of the customer, and will in most cases authorise a return subject to the relevant manufacturers terms and conditions.

  • Return shipping charges are to be paid by the customer
  • Products must only be returned with the consent of WStore and will not be accepted without the WStore assigned returns number
  • Return claims must be carried out within 7 days of purchase on the returns form available from your account information page

10) If I return goods that have already been paid for, how and when will I be reimbursed?

WStore will refund your credit account, reimburse you by cheque or re-imburse your credit card within 7 days, following the acceptance of your return. The courier will leave you a confirmation when the goods to be returned are collected. Once the goods have reached the warehouse and WStore have confirmed that the return is in line with specifications, reimbursement payment will be proceeded.

11) What other payments methods are available other than credit card?

To view our range of payment methods, please visit our payment page.

12) I’m ready to place an order with WStore, but another supplier has offered a lower price – what’s your response?

WStore is committed to providing customers with the very lowest prices, and in most cases are able to match a previously quoted price received elsewhere. Contact the sales team on 01252 745000.

13) Do you offer discounts for large orders?

WStore already offers highly competitive prices that are frequently updated. However, in certain situations a manufacturer may be willing to offer a supported price for a particular customer. Our team will gladly present a commercial case for project pricing where possible - please speak to your account manager for more information.

14) How do you provide leasing without being a credit agency or bank?

WStore is able to service leasing due to its partnerships with several leasing houses, including HP Finance and Compaq Finance. Once you have made your selection and validated the financing option, WStore transmits your order directly to a finance company we have selected (or the finance company of your choice if preferred). Your order, in pro-forma format, is then confirmed by the finance company, which WStore will invoice once approved. The finance company will then secure payment through a banking institution.

Interest rates are clearly outlined between the finance company and the customer. Customers are provided with clear indications as to the price of the goods and the financing rates.

WStore have a license from the Office of Fair Trading to enable us to handle financing transactions.

15) Why do I sometimes receive multiple deliveries from a single order I have placed with you?

WStore operates a process known as 'virtual warehousing' which means that, to enable us to achieve the maximum stock breadth we utilise multiple supplier warehouses across the UK, which may use different couriers. In order to provide a next day service on thousands of products, this means that your order may be delivered by multiple couriers, in multiple boxes, and at different times. This is simply to ensure that we consistently provide a next day service on over 20,000 stock items, something we are confident that no other supplier can achieve. If you would prefer to only receive a single delivery, please let us know before your order is placed, and we will attempt to accomodate you, though this may result in delays to your shipments.

16) What are the advantages of purchasing on your site compared to the more traditional resellers?

WStore was created to offer a better service to its customers. We are no different to the more traditional resellers apart from that we have chosen to utilise the internet to provide an exceptional level of information to business customers. The facts speak for themselves:
  1. Accurate and updated information
    WStore’s product information is updated regularly on all catalogue products. Product availability is given in real time and search tools on the site assist customers in the selection and comparison of products.
  2. Complete ordering transparency
    Customers can consult information concerning current or past orders, as well as quotations on hold, at any time - previous order information includes purchase price and manufacturer part number - very useful for internal asset tracking or update requirements. WStore’s customers are informed automatically by email of the preparation of their order, any necessary ordering requirements and shipping procedures.
  3. Adapting to your needs
    WStore are flexible and can adapt to the way you currently finance your purchases with ease. WStore can also manage purchasing conditions to enable you to supervise your buyers. For larger corporates we can integrate our system fully into an existing order process management system.
  4. Payment Options
    WStore offers a variety of payment options, including leasing and 30 day credit terms.
  5. Support Team
    WStore still has the solid foundation and support team of a traditional corporate reseller, but has been able to reduce costs by implementing current technologies.

17) How do I buy installation media kits with my licence order?

Installation Media Kits are not available on our web site due to piracy issues. To order your media kits please contact your account manager or a member of the software licensing team on 08700 11 33 10.

18) How do I change my password online?

As a business to business reseller, the majority of our accounts have insured credit limits and multiple buyers within accounts. As a security precaution we do not allow the amendment of passwords by users unless validated by an internal account manager. This is done by ensuring that the password change request is made by an authorised person still in full employment at the authorised companies location. In the cases where the requestor is not the senior buyer on the account, a check may also be made with the senior contact on the account.