"Extremely rude staff and a waste of time"

I contacted Criterion to get a valuation on an item. Valerie immediately showed interest. I specifically asked if they sold this item and Valerie confirmed "yes" they have sold these items in the past and told me to send them pictures, which I did. The response from Harriet was incredibly rude saying "We are an auction house" and do not sell this item. They clearly confirmed that they did prior to asking me to send them pictures!

I can understand why most of Criterion's reviews are 1 Star. Best to avoid any dealings with this company, they are a waste of time.

16.04.25 update in response to Criterions message:

The microwave IS an antique. One of the first microwaves ever made, why else would I be contacting you? If you were unable to sell this antique then you would have informed me straight away during my intial telephone enquiry with you. But you didn't.

I was very clear from the start that the item was an antique microwave. However, not only did you CONFIRM that you CAN handle and sell this item, but that you have sold antique microwaves in the past, AND can arrange for the collection of the antique microwave to be delivered to your premises for sale at your auction! You then gave me your direct email address, taking pains to make sure I recorded the address correctly, and requested that I send you pictures.

Imagine my surprise and upset when I received your two lined extremely rude email response saying you don't sell this item, with no explanation as to why you have been needlesly stringing me along, wasting my time. Please do not try to patronize me.

"Terrible customer service—extremely…"

Terrible customer service—extremely rude and unhelpful. I simply asked if they had any courier recommendations and was made to feel like a burden. If you have the option, I’d strongly suggest avoiding them. By far the worst experience I’ve ever had with an auctioneer.

"Used to sell on a regular basis"

Used to sell on a regular basis several years ago . Just used them again recently . I didn’t check all the charges they add to a sale which I blame myself for but ended up receiving only 40% of the sale price. Just check those charges before selling. Of course the buyer pays too.

"Zeki is a real star"

I wanted to write in to say how impressive Zeki was last week when I went to pick up my painting. I was saying to the Wiltshire office how he stood out with his professional communication, customer skill and a level of helpfulness I’ve not come across for a very long time in London. I was even more impressed when he said he was new to the company.

It’s so hard to find good staff these days in London (my company is struggling at the moment) and I walked away thinking “how did they find him this guy” and how lucky you were to have him.

Criterion is one I will definitely keep in mind for my future buying now. Thank you for such a great experience. I walked away uplifted.

"Great place!"

Great place!

"Criterion Auctioneers"

Over the years, I’ve sold some items through Criterion without any trouble. During the ssme period, I’ve also bought a few items, which are things that have given me great joy and that I cherish.
Their staff are always friendly and willing to help with shipping. Great pleace to hunt for some lovely pieces, often at reasonable reserve prices. With the latest addition of a saleroom in Gloucester, and another one in Kensington, there’s always plenty of things to choose from for every taste and every budget.

"Criterion's Auctions ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"

I buy regularly from Criterion Auctions and always get a really good service. Not only are the items I purchase always as described but the team at Criterion go out of their way to help me with collection and delivery of the items. Well done and thank you to all at Criterion!

"They couldn't find my picture"

They couldn't find my picture! (Half an hour on a loading only bay). Complete shambles. Two hour round trip. No one at the front desk and I had to call out 'Is anyone there?' to make them aware I'd come in through their front door. I asked when they'd last lost a lot .. lad said 3 weeks ago! Was refunded, but I wouldn't bother with them again. In accordance with their quoted delivery charge (which I chose not to accept, me being able to drive there), they owe me £140!

"No Reply for a quote promised since 22 May 2023"

Sent in detailed file of furniture and pictures to see if Criterion would be interested, a reply saying they would respond - then SILENCE from 22 May till now 29 June 2023. Poor service

"Do not use them"

Do not use them! They threw away a suitcase full of valuable items while clearing my mother’s house despite clear — and clearly understood— instructions not to touch them. Date I quote here may be a week or two out.