Early Learning Centre

A big Early Learning Centre at the John Lewis end of the Trafford Centre.

First, the good news: it’s a large store and should have plenty on offer. The prices are generally reasonable and the shop assistants seem to know what they’re doing.

However, the main word in that paragraph is “should”. Their stock control appears to be poor: they often seem to have gaps on the shelves, even before Christmas (my wife went one Tuesday to be told they hadn’t yet received any fresh stock after the weekend).

Still, it’s not all bad: you’ve got the advantage of Trafford Centre parking and the merchandise in general is of a good standard. It’s not a bad place: but you might be disappointed if you want something specific.

As with all Early Learning Centre shops this store looks like a kid’s bedroom! Don’t go at busy periods (weekends, summer hols, Christmas) as there are kids making a mess everywhere. I know it’s a children’s shop but this does make it difficult to browse comfortably. Also, as this one is in the Trafford Centre if you but anything large getting it back to your car can be a bit of a mission. The fact that their toys are fab more than makes up for it though. The staff are helpful though and there are plenty of them about to help.