Safeway

For residents of Lakewood, Washington, and the surrounding areas in search of a grocery store that may also offer 'Candles Near Me' alongside a wide selection of food and household items, the Safeway located at 10223 Gravelly Lake Dr SW is a local option. As a well-known supermarket chain, Safeway typically stocks a variety of non-food items, including home goods and seasonal merchandise, which may encompass candles. While Safeway's primary focus is on groceries, customers often find a selection of general merchandise within their stores, making it a convenient stop for multiple shopping needs.

Based on recent customer feedback, the environment and services at this particular Safeway location in Lakewood appear to have some areas needing improvement. One customer reported issues with the availability of shopping carts upon arrival, leading to an initial inconvenience. This suggests that during busy periods, shoppers might experience delays in accessing essential shopping equipment. Additionally, the same customer consistently encountered significant wait times at the deli counter, often up to ten minutes. This could indicate understaffing or inefficiencies in the deli service, potentially impacting the overall shopping experience for those seeking prepared foods.

Further concerns were raised regarding the stocking and facing of products within the store. The same reviewer recounted a specific instance of having to wait five minutes for assistance in retrieving a half-gallon of milk because the cooler was not properly organized, requiring the customer to reach into an unfronted section to access the item. This suggests potential inconsistencies in maintaining well-stocked and organized shelves, which can lead to frustration and difficulty in finding desired products. The overall sentiment of this customer was one of repeated disappointment, prompting a consideration of returning to a preferred Safeway location in a different city.

Another significant issue highlighted in the customer reviews pertains to checkout procedures and employee knowledge regarding store policies, specifically concerning bag fees for EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) customers. One reviewer described an interaction with a checkout employee who incorrectly stated that EBT customers were no longer exempt from paying for bags. The reviewer, who identified themselves as an employee of another grocery store, clarified that Washington State regulations still mandate an automatic deduction of up to 8 cents per bag for EBT transactions. The customer is then responsible only for any amount exceeding this 8-cent exemption, depending on the store's bag fee policy and the cost of the bags used.

This review included references to the Washington State regulations page and a "report a violation" form, indicating that charging EBT/SNAP/WIC customers the exempt portion of the bag fee is considered a violation. The reviewer emphasized that the bag fee is collected by the store, not the state, and thus, incorrectly charging exempt customers could be seen as an attempt to profit from low-income individuals, potentially incurring a fine. The reviewer expressed hope for improved customer service and adherence to state laws by the store's employees in the future, specifically mentioning an interaction with a self-checkout employee regarding this issue.

Considering the potential for Safeway to stock candles, these would likely be found within the home goods or general merchandise aisles, possibly near seasonal items or in a designated section for home fragrance. The selection might include various types of candles, such as jar candles, scented pillars, tea lights, and possibly flameless LED candles. The scents and brands available would likely vary based on Safeway's current inventory and seasonal offerings. Customers looking for 'Candles Near Me' while doing their grocery shopping might find a limited but convenient selection at this Safeway location.

In terms of services, Safeway typically offers standard grocery store amenities, including a deli counter, bakery, meat and seafood counters, produce section, and a variety of grocery aisles. They also have checkout lanes, including self-checkout options. However, the customer reviews suggest potential inconsistencies in the efficiency and knowledge of staff at the deli and checkout areas. It is important for local users to be aware of these reported issues when considering shopping at this particular Safeway location.

Information regarding specific promotional offers at this Safeway store is not provided in the customer reviews. Safeway as a chain regularly offers weekly ads, discounts on specific products, and loyalty programs (such as Safeway Club Card) that provide savings to frequent shoppers. To learn about the current promotions at the Lakewood location, customers are advised to check the official Safeway website or app, or to inquire in-store. These promotions might occasionally include discounts on non-food items like candles, especially during seasonal sales events or holidays.

Given the mixed feedback from recent customers, local users considering Safeway at 10223 Gravelly Lake Dr SW in Lakewood, WA, for their grocery needs and potential candle purchases should be aware of the reported issues concerning shopping cart availability, deli wait times, stocking inconsistencies, and checkout policy misunderstandings. While Safeway generally aims to provide a convenient shopping experience, these reviews suggest that this particular location may have areas where service and efficiency could be improved. Customers seeking 'Candles Near Me' might still find some options here, but it would be prudent to also consider other local retailers specializing in home goods for a potentially wider selection and more focused service.

In conclusion, Safeway in Lakewood, WA, offers the convenience of a grocery store that may also stock candles and other home goods. However, recent customer feedback highlights potential drawbacks related to shopping carts, deli service, store stocking, and checkout accuracy regarding EBT bag fee exemptions. Local users should weigh these factors when deciding whether this location meets their needs for both groceries and 'Candles Near Me'. It is recommended to check for current promotions and to be prepared for potential inconsistencies in service based on the recent experiences shared by other shoppers.