REGULATION – London Store

Located at 13A Bateman Street, REGULATION has established itself as a significant destination for those seeking high-quality fetish wear and accessories in London. Since its founding in 1991 and subsequent move to Soho, the store has specialised in a specific segment of the adult retail market, focusing primarily on leather fetish wear and latex clothing. Unlike a generic sex shop, which might offer a broader, more generalised inventory, REGULATION concentrates on durable, high-calibre garments and equipment, much of which is produced in its own North London workshop. This focus on craftsmanship appeals to a discerning clientele prepared to invest in quality pieces.

The store is laid out over two floors. The ground level typically showcases leather goods and apparel, while the basement houses a more extensive collection of rubber wear and more explicit BDSM gear. This lower level features well-designed fitting rooms, a practical necessity for customers making significant purchases of often form-fitting attire. The business also provides bespoke services, including made-to-measure garments and alterations, catering to individual sizing and design preferences. This service is a considerable advantage for customers seeking a perfect fit, which is crucial for specialist items like rubber and leatherwear.

Product Quality and Selection

Customer feedback frequently highlights the superior quality and fit of the products available. Patrons often mention that while the items are on the 'pricey side', the cost is justified by the craftsmanship. This positioning suggests the store is not for casual bargain hunters but for enthusiasts who view their purchases as long-term investments. The selection is extensive within its niche, covering everything from custom-made leather jeans to a wide array of rubber clothing, hoods, and restraints. For many, it serves as a crucial resource for acquiring their first significant fetish outfit, with staff available to assist with measurements and product information. The inventory also includes a variety of adult toys, lubricants, and specialist accessories, making it a comprehensive stop for the fetish community.

The Customer Service Conundrum

The in-store experience at REGULATION appears to be markedly inconsistent, representing the most significant point of contention among customers. On one hand, numerous visitors report exceptionally positive interactions. Staff members are described as friendly, knowledgeable, professional, and helpful, guiding customers through the product range, offering explanations, and even assisting with trying on complex garments. For some, particularly those travelling from afar or new to the scene, this expert assistance is a defining feature of their positive experience. These accounts portray a welcoming environment where staff are passionate about their products and eager to help.

Conversely, a recurring and serious criticism centres on poor customer service. Several reviews describe staff as cold, unfriendly, and inattentive. One particularly detailed account describes a customer being left entirely alone in the basement for 45 minutes while multiple staff members chatted upstairs, completely ignored. This level of neglect led to frustration and a significantly reduced purchase. Another review corroborates this sentiment, stating that staff members are consistently unfriendly and act cold during visits. This stark contrast in experiences suggests a potential lack of consistent service standards. While some customers receive attentive, expert care, others are faced with an atmosphere that feels exclusionary and unhelpful. This variability is a critical factor for any potential visitor to consider; the reception one receives may depend heavily on the staff present on a given day.

Practical Information for Visitors

For those planning a visit, it is useful to be aware of the store's operational details and policies.

• Opening Hours: The store operates from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, with shorter hours on Sunday, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
• Pricing: Items are positioned at a premium price point, reflecting the quality of materials and in-house manufacturing.
• Discounts: A notable benefit is the store's acceptance of the Blue Light Card, offering a discount to individuals in the NHS, emergency services, social care sector, and armed forces. This is a valuable incentive for eligible customers.
• Accessibility: The entrance is wheelchair accessible, ensuring those with mobility challenges can enter the ground floor of the establishment.
• Online Experience: Feedback on the digital side of the business is also mixed. Some find the in-store staff more personable than their 'online counterparts', while others have reported issues with online orders and unresponsive customer support tickets, indicating that service inconsistencies may extend beyond the physical shop.

REGULATION holds a unique and important position in London's adult retail landscape. It is not merely a shop but a specialist outfitter for the fetish and BDSM communities, offering high-quality, often bespoke, leather fetish wear, latex clothing, and related bondage equipment. Its key strength lies in the quality and specificity of its product range, making it a destination for serious enthusiasts. However, the significant inconsistency in customer service is a substantial drawback. A potential customer might have an excellent, supportive experience or a frustrating, dismissive one. Therefore, visiting REGULATION is a calculated decision: one goes for the superior product, aware that the quality of the human interaction is, unfortunately, unpredictable.