I made 2 seperate purchases, using a gift voucher, and went to 2 different branches on 2 different days.
My initial attempt at purchase was Click & Collect. The website had issues however and I was unable to complete the transaction. I phoned customer support and they didn't have much to say on the matter, other than enquire as to which browser I was using.
I therefore went to Islington branch as the item was showing as available. The price of the item was listed at £49.00 online but the store had it priced at £66.00. I flagged this to staff and they confirmed the item was incorrectly priced in store. I then went to proceed to purchase. There were 2 members of staff on hand. The person that served me was more interested in listening to her colleague's phone conversation than serving me. Although I did with a sense of humour I had to comment to her a few times that she was ignoring me and that maybe she could do me the courtesy of giving me her attention.
With the second transaction I was purchasing 2 items and went to a different branch (Hackney), curious to see if the service was similar or better. I fell at the first hurdle with this one. The company website states that branches are open until 5pm on Bank Holidays. I went on New Years Day and the store was closed...I returned the next day and raised this with the member of staff serving me. He said 'we are open on bank holidays' but were closed as New Years day...I said that I would count the day as a Bank Holiday and therefore would take it that the store would be open...he mumbled something by way of trying to justify his comment, but I've no idea what his logic was....At no point did he make eye contact with me. He appeared irritated/annoyed at my comments and served me with no acknowledgement and no 'thank you', he simply walked away.
The staff were all very young (I am not) and and I'm guessing inexperienced. I have many years experience and knowledge of bike related matters. I'm not sure how somebody with no knowledge would fare going to a Balfe's store in need of help or advice.

I won't be going back.. although I still have a balance on my gift voucher, so I guess one last visit at some point.