Ghurka

This is a review of Ghurka products in general, the current bags are MADE IN CHINA. The bag itself (Explorer) is fine, but I am very disappointed at the advertising of their items being American made, throughout their marketing and website. Even the print material about the history of the company that comes with the bag, ends with a statement about their company commitment to American made. It is the American made claim that caused me to pay a premium for this bag, over $ 1,000 for a back pack. So to find the MADE IN CHINA tag is quite disturbing. I plan to call them and demand a refund, unlikely but I will be reporting them.

I walked into Ghurka a couple of weeks ago after seeing a backpack I wanted on display. I had never shopped at Ghurka before, and honestly had never even heard of its name until then.
Apparently Ghurka derives its name from the Ghurka soldiers of the Himalayas, which inspired founder Marley Hodgson to design handcrafted leather goods (i.e. backpacks, briefcases, wallets, etc) built to last a lifetime.
The store itself occupies only a single floor, but is beautifully designed in regards to its layout and product placement. Considering how small the store is, there is a large selection of Ghurka bags to choose from.
While the bags are definitely pricey, the price points seem to be fair for the quality. As the leather ages, the bags seem sure to develop a beautiful patina.
While I could rave on and on about this store and its products, I was deeply disappointed by the customer service. Now I’m not saying the sales associates are mean or rude in any way, but they don’t exactly put an effort into making you feel welcomed.
When I walked in, the sales associate on duty looked up and greeted me. I don’t know if it was because I didn’t look like someone who would buy something or what, but once she saw me she seemed to lose her enthusiasm. During the whole time I was in the store, her and her fellow coworker were chatting it up, completely ignoring me. Even when I asked her for the price of the item I was interested in, she merely spat out the price without even approaching me, and then continued talking to her coworker. I expect more for brand name stores.
This store really deserves a 3.5, but I’m rounding down because of its customer service.
Oh, and if you’re interested in buying Ghurka, I would recommend going soon because right now they’re having a sale.