
Based on looking at the website devonialondon.co.uk, it presents itself as a legitimate e-commerce platform specialising in gardening products. The site showcases a range of fertilizers, landscaping materials, and gardening lifestyle items. While the general appearance and stated mission are positive, a deeper dive into common practices for trustworthy online businesses reveals some areas that could be enhanced for greater transparency and user confidence.
Overall Review Summary:
- Website Professionalism: Appears well-designed and functional.
- Product Offering: Clearly defined range of gardening products.
- Stated Experience: Claims “18+ Years Experience” in the gardening business.
- Customer Reviews: Mentions “Highly Reviewed” but lacks direct, on-site integration or clear links to verifiable third-party review platforms beyond general statements.
- Contact Information: No prominent direct phone number or specific customer service email visible on the homepage or in the footer for immediate support.
- Physical Address: Lacks a clear, verifiable physical business address.
- Privacy Policy/Terms & Conditions: Not immediately visible as easily accessible links from the homepage footer.
- Trust Signals: Relies on self-proclaimed experience and mentions of retail partnerships (B&Q, The Chelsea Gardener) as primary trust indicators.
The website aims to simplify gardening for everyone, from amateurs to professionals, by offering “innovative, low-maintenance solutions” and “environmentally conscious” products. They highlight ease of use, efficiency, design, and quality in their product selection. While these are commendable claims, the absence of readily available, robust trust signals such as comprehensive contact details, a clear physical address, and easily navigable legal pages like a Privacy Policy or Terms & Conditions, does raise some questions from a strict consumer confidence perspective. For a business aiming to be fully transparent and ethical, especially from an Islamic perspective which values clarity and honesty in transactions, these elements are crucial.
Here are some excellent alternatives for gardening supplies that are widely trusted and provide comprehensive transparency:
- Gardening Express
- Key Features: Wide range of plants, seeds, bulbs, gardening tools, and equipment; known for competitive prices and special offers; strong emphasis on plant health and quality.
- Average Price: Varies widely depending on products, from a few pounds for seeds to hundreds for mature plants or larger tools.
- Pros: Extensive selection, frequent deals, good customer service reputation, clear delivery information.
- Cons: Can be overwhelming due to sheer volume of products; plant availability can fluctuate.
- Thompson & Morgan
- Key Features: Renowned for seeds, young plants, and gardening accessories; offers exclusive varieties and detailed growing advice; long-standing reputation in the UK gardening market.
- Average Price: Seeds typically £2-£5 per packet; young plants £10-£30 per pack.
- Pros: Trusted brand with a rich history, excellent quality seeds, comprehensive guides and resources, reliable delivery.
- Cons: Focuses heavily on seeds and young plants, so less emphasis on heavy-duty landscaping materials.
- Suttons
- Key Features: Broad selection of seeds, plants, fruit trees, and gardening equipment; strong focus on sustainability and organic options; offers detailed product information and growing tips.
- Average Price: Similar to Thompson & Morgan for seeds and plants; tools and accessories vary.
- Pros: Reputable brand, commitment to environmental practices, good variety for both edibles and ornamentals, helpful gardening advice.
- Cons: Some product categories might be less extensive compared to larger general retailers.
- Waitrose Garden
- Key Features: High-quality plants, garden tools, and outdoor living products; curated selection with an emphasis on aesthetics and reliability; backed by the Waitrose brand reputation for quality.
- Average Price: Generally higher price point reflecting the premium quality and curated selection.
- Pros: Excellent plant quality, reliable delivery, strong brand trust, aesthetically pleasing product range.
- Cons: More expensive than some budget options; selection may be less exhaustive for very niche items.
- Harrod Horticultural
- Key Features: Specialises in high-quality garden structures, fruit cages, raised beds, and practical gardening solutions; known for durable, long-lasting products.
- Average Price: Higher price point due to the nature of their durable and structural products.
- Pros: Superior quality and durability, excellent for specific garden projects (e.g., fruit cages), British manufacturing where possible, strong customer support.
- Cons: Not a general gardening supply store; focus is on structures and specific tools rather than plants or general consumables.
- RHS Plants
- Key Features: Official plant shop of the Royal Horticultural Society; offers a wide variety of plants, including rare and unusual specimens; proceeds support RHS charitable work.
- Average Price: Competitive for general plants, can be higher for unique or specimen plants.
- Pros: Directly supports horticultural science and education, high-quality plants, access to expert advice, unique plant selection.
- Cons: Primarily focused on plants, less on tools or landscaping materials; delivery can be specific to plant types.
- Screwfix
- Key Features: While known for trade, Screwfix offers a robust range of outdoor and gardening equipment, including power tools, sheds, fencing, and landscaping materials; focus on practicality and durability.
- Average Price: Generally competitive for tools and bulk materials.
- Pros: Excellent for heavier-duty gardening tasks and construction, reliable stock availability, click-and-collect options, strong trade reputation.
- Cons: Less emphasis on plants or decorative garden items; more of a practical, functional focus.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Devonialondon.co.uk Review & First Look
Based on an initial inspection, Devonialondon.co.uk presents itself as a dedicated online retailer for gardening products, with a professional and clean website design. The overall aesthetic is inviting, with clear calls to action and imagery related to gardening. The site states it is a “Family Run Business” with “18+ Years Experience,” which aims to convey a sense of reliability and expertise. They also claim to be “Highly Reviewed,” though specific mechanisms for verifying these reviews directly on the homepage are not immediately apparent. The product categories—Fertilizer, Landscaping, Edging, and Lifestyle—are well-defined, suggesting a clear focus.
Initial Impressions of Design and Navigation
The website’s layout is intuitive, making it easy for users to browse products. The main navigation menu is concise, directing users to “Shop now” and outlining key product categories. This straightforward approach enhances the user experience, allowing quick access to various offerings. The visual elements, such as product images and banners, are of good quality, contributing to a pleasant browsing environment.
Transparency in Business Information
While the website mentions “Family Run Business” and “18+ Years Experience,” it lacks explicit details regarding its corporate structure, registration numbers, or a physical business address. Reputable e-commerce sites, particularly in the UK, typically display this information prominently in the footer or on an “About Us” page. The absence of a clear physical address can raise questions about accountability and direct contact options for customers, which from an ethical standpoint, leans towards less transparency.
Claims of Expertise and Experience
The claim of “18+ Years Experience” is a strong assertion that would ideally be supported by detailed historical information or milestones. While a blog section (“Devonia World”) exists, it primarily offers gardening advice rather than a deep dive into the company’s journey or credentials that validate such a long tenure in the industry. This reliance on a broad claim without substantiation can lead to an impression of a less robust background than advertised.
Devonialondon.co.uk Pros & Cons
Analysing Devonialondon.co.uk reveals several strengths and weaknesses that potential customers should consider. These points are crucial for making an informed decision, especially when evaluating the trustworthiness and reliability of an online vendor.
Pros of Devonialondon.co.uk
The website does have several positive attributes that contribute to a generally good user experience and product offering.
Clear Product Categorisation
The site effectively organises its products into distinct categories: Fertilizer, Landscaping, Edging, and Lifestyle. This structure makes it easy for visitors to find specific items, reducing search time and enhancing overall navigation. For instance, if a customer is looking specifically for “Weed Control Fabric,” they can quickly head to the “Landscaping” section. This clear categorisation contributes to a positive user journey.
Focus on Specific Gardening Solutions
Devonia London highlights “innovative, low-maintenance solutions” like fertilizer spikes that simplify plant care. This focus on efficiency and ease of use is a significant draw for both novice and experienced gardeners. The detailed descriptions of products, such as the slow-release nutrients in their fertilizer sticks, provide clear benefits to the user, like “keeping plants lush, succulents vibrant, and vegetables productive.”
Mentions of Retail Partnerships
The website proudly states that Devonia products are retailed at reputable establishments like The Chelsea Gardener, World’s End Nurseries, and will be online via B&Q in March 2025. These affiliations with established brick-and-mortar stores and major retailers can serve as a significant trust signal. For example, B&Q is a well-known home improvement retailer in the UK, and their association lends credibility to Devonia London’s product quality and distribution network.
Environmentally Conscious Messaging
Devonia London emphasizes its commitment to sustainability, mentioning “organic, eco-friendly, low-impact products” and a goal to “grow greener and more innovative products are launched!” This resonates well with environmentally conscious consumers and aligns with a growing global trend towards sustainable practices. The mention of supporting pollinators like bees adds another layer of appeal for those concerned with ecological welfare. Andmeisterbooks.co.uk Review
Cons of Devonialondon.co.uk
Despite its positive aspects, Devonialondon.co.uk has several significant drawbacks, primarily concerning transparency and customer support infrastructure. These are critical areas for any online business, especially for building long-term trust.
Lack of Direct Contact Information
A major concern is the absence of a readily available phone number or specific customer service email address on the homepage or in the website’s footer. While a “Login” and “Sign Up” option exists, direct, immediate contact methods are crucial for customer inquiries, support, or complaint resolution. This omission can frustrate customers seeking quick answers or experiencing issues, diminishing confidence in the business’s responsiveness. Most reputable online retailers prominently display multiple contact channels.
No Visible Physical Business Address
Another significant transparency issue is the lack of a clear, verifiable physical business address. For a UK-based e-commerce site, this information is usually displayed in the footer, on an “About Us” page, or within the Terms and Conditions. Its absence makes it difficult to ascertain the legitimacy of the business beyond its online presence and poses challenges for legal accountability or formal correspondence. Ethical businesses strive for full transparency in their operational base.
Absence of Prominent Legal Pages
While the website likely has a Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions, these are not immediately visible or easily accessible from the homepage or its footer. Such legal documents are fundamental for informing customers about data handling, return policies, dispute resolution, and contractual agreements. Their lack of prominence can lead to distrust, as consumers may feel unsure about their rights and the company’s obligations. This is a standard practice for establishing trust and complying with consumer protection regulations.
Limited On-site Customer Review Integration
Although the website claims to be “Highly Reviewed” and features a section “What our Customers say” without visible testimonials or links to external review platforms (e.g., Trustpilot, Google Reviews) directly on the homepage. This makes it difficult for new visitors to verify the legitimacy and volume of positive customer feedback. Strong social proof is a vital component of building online trust, and without direct, verifiable evidence, the claim of being “highly reviewed” remains unsubstantiated to the casual browser.
Generic “Find out more” Links
Several sections, such as “Find out more” under Fertilizer and Landscaping, link to the generic “About Us” page instead of specific, detailed product information or category pages. This can be misleading and inefficient for users seeking in-depth knowledge about a particular product or service, leading to a less optimised user experience and potentially missed sales opportunities.
Devonialondon.co.uk Alternatives
When seeking reliable and transparent gardening suppliers, especially in the UK, several established businesses offer comprehensive services, robust customer support, and clear business information. These alternatives often excel in areas where Devonialondon.co.uk shows limitations, providing a more secure and satisfying purchasing experience.
Leading UK Gardening Retailers
- Gardening Express: Known for their extensive range of plants, garden tools, and accessories, Gardening Express offers competitive pricing and frequent sales. They provide clear contact information and a detailed FAQ section, ensuring customers can easily get support. Their longevity in the market, coupled with readily available customer reviews on independent platforms, makes them a strong alternative.
- Thompson & Morgan: As one of the UK’s oldest and most respected seed and plant companies, Thompson & Morgan is a benchmark for quality and variety. They have a comprehensive website with detailed product information, clear terms and conditions, and multiple ways to contact customer service. Their decades of experience and strong brand reputation provide significant peace of mind.
- Suttons: Similar to Thompson & Morgan, Suttons is a well-established name in horticulture, offering a wide array of seeds, plants, and gardening essentials. They are transparent with their business practices, including a physical address, contact details, and accessible legal policies. Their focus on sustainability and organic options further enhances their appeal to ethically minded gardeners.
- Harrod Horticultural: For those seeking high-quality, durable garden structures, fruit cages, and raised beds, Harrod Horticultural is an excellent choice. They pride themselves on British manufacturing and offer exceptional customer service with clear contact information and robust guarantees. Their specialisation means a deep understanding of their product range.
- RHS Plants: The Royal Horticultural Society’s plant shop is an authoritative source for a vast selection of plants, including rare and unusual varieties. As a charitable organisation, their operations are highly transparent, with all necessary contact and legal information readily available. Purchasing from RHS Plants also supports vital horticultural research and education.
- Wickes: While primarily a DIY and home improvement retailer, Wickes offers a substantial range of gardening products, from landscaping materials to outdoor structures and tools. They are a large, publicly traded company with clear corporate information, physical store locations, and comprehensive online support, making them a very reliable option for bulk buys and larger projects.
- B&Q: As mentioned on Devonia London’s site, B&Q is a major UK retailer for home and garden. Their online presence is robust, offering a vast array of gardening products, detailed product descriptions, and clear customer service channels, including physical stores across the country. Their established reputation and extensive product lines make them a go-to for many gardeners.
How to Cancel Devonialondon.co.uk Subscription
Based on the information available on the Devonialondon.co.uk homepage, there’s no explicit mention of subscription services for products or a “free trial” offer. The site primarily functions as an e-commerce platform for one-off purchases of gardening products.
Absence of Subscription Model
The homepage content focuses on direct sales of “Fertilizer,” “Landscaping,” “Edging,” and “Lifestyle” products. There are no indications of recurring billing, membership models, or specific ‘plans’ that would necessitate a cancellation process. Users add items to a “Shopping cart” and proceed to checkout, which is typical for standard online retail.
Steps if a Subscription Service is Later Introduced
Should Devonia London introduce a subscription service in the future (e.g., for regular fertilizer deliveries or a gardening club), the typical cancellation process would involve: Awayonbusiness.co.uk Review
- Logging into your account: Most subscription services require users to log in to their registered account on the platform.
- Navigating to ‘My Account’ or ‘Subscriptions’: Within the account dashboard, there is usually a dedicated section for managing active subscriptions.
- Locating the specific subscription: Identify the service you wish to cancel.
- Following the cancellation prompts: There will typically be a “Cancel Subscription” button or link. Users may need to confirm their decision or provide a reason for cancellation.
- Receiving a confirmation: A confirmation email or on-screen message is usually provided once the cancellation is successful.
- Contacting Customer Support: If direct cancellation through the account is not available or encounters issues, contacting customer support via email or phone (if provided) would be the next step.
Currently, since no subscription model is advertised, customers should proceed with the assumption that all purchases are one-off transactions. If any future marketing implies a subscription, customers should scrutinise the terms and conditions very carefully before committing.
Devonialondon.co.uk Pricing
Based on the Devonialondon.co.uk homepage text, specific pricing details for individual products are visible. For example, “Olive Tree Plant Food Sticks” and “Landscaping and Weed Control Fabric – Premium” are listed with accompanying “Buy now” buttons, implying direct purchase. The site does not provide a general pricing structure or range across its entire inventory, but rather displays prices at the individual product level.
Direct Product Pricing
The model employed is typical of an e-commerce store where each product has its own listed price. For instance, the homepage showcases several bestsellers:
- Olive Tree Plant Food Sticks
- Window Box Hanging Basket and Pot Plant Food Sticks
- Plant Food Organic Sticks for Vegetables Fruits and Flowering Plants
- Evergreen Tree Plant Food Large Spikes
- Landscaping and Weed Control Fabric – Premium
- Fabric Pegs (Pack)
- Fern Palm Plant Food Organic Sticks
- Landscaping and Weed Control Fabric – Basic
- Landscaping Driveway Pathway and Patio Fabric – Heavy Duty
- Lawn Edging Border Pathway Landscaping in Emerald Green (8 Pack)
Each of these items would have a specific price displayed when viewed on the product page or in quick-view elements. The shopping cart shows “£0.00” initially, indicating that prices are added as items are selected.
No Tiered Pricing or Plans
There is no mention of tiered pricing structures, bulk discounts across product categories (beyond what individual product listings might offer), or subscription plans that would involve recurring payments at different price points. The business model appears to be straightforward retail, where customers pay for items as they purchase them.
Comparison to Market Averages
To assess the competitiveness of Devonia London’s pricing, one would need to compare the specific prices of their products (e.g., fertilizer spikes, weed control fabric) against similar offerings from major UK gardening retailers like Gardening Express, Thompson & Morgan, or local garden centres. Without access to specific prices on the homepage, a direct comparison is not feasible from the provided text. However, the presence of their products at B&Q and The Chelsea Gardener suggests their pricing is within a competitive range for the retail market, as these established retailers typically stock products that are competitively priced for their target demographics.
Devonialondon.co.uk vs. Established Gardening Retailers
When comparing Devonialondon.co.uk to established gardening retailers in the UK, the key differentiators often lie in aspects of transparency, customer support infrastructure, and market presence. While Devonia London attempts to carve out a niche with “innovative” and “low-maintenance” products, larger, more established players often offer a more comprehensive and trustworthy experience.
Transparency and Trust Signals
Devonialondon.co.uk: As noted, the website lacks prominent direct contact information (phone number, specific email), a verifiable physical business address, and easily accessible legal documents like a Privacy Policy or Terms & Conditions from the homepage. While they mention being “Highly Reviewed” and “Family Run,” concrete evidence and robust trust signals are not immediately apparent.
Established Retailers (e.g., Thompson & Morgan, Gardening Express, B&Q): These companies typically excel in transparency. Their websites prominently display:
- Multiple Contact Methods: Including phone numbers, dedicated customer service email addresses, and often live chat options.
- Registered Business Addresses: Clearly listed, often with company registration numbers.
- Accessible Legal Pages: Privacy Policies, Terms and Conditions, Return Policies, and Delivery Information are usually linked in the footer and easily navigable.
- Verifiable Reviews: Integration with independent review platforms like Trustpilot, Feefo, or Google Reviews, allowing customers to see genuine, unfiltered feedback.
- Long-Standing Reputation: Decades of operation build a strong foundation of trust that newer or less transparent online ventures cannot immediately replicate.
Product Range and Specialisation
Devonialondon.co.uk: Focuses on “essential & innovative products for indoor & outdoor gardening,” specifically highlighting “fertiliser, landscape, edging, & lifestyle products.” Their unique selling proposition revolves around “ease of use, efficiency, design, and quality” with an emphasis on “organic, eco-friendly, low-impact products.” This suggests a curated, perhaps narrower, range. Clarkgillone.co.uk Review
Established Retailers:
- Broader Catalogue: Giants like B&Q offer an extensive range covering almost every aspect of gardening, from plants, seeds, and tools to sheds, garden furniture, and large landscaping materials.
- Deep Specialisation (for some): Companies like Harrod Horticultural specialise in high-end structures, while Thompson & Morgan and Suttons are renowned for their vast seed and plant collections, often including exclusive varieties.
- Variety of Brands: Larger retailers typically stock products from numerous manufacturers, offering customers a wider choice in terms of brand, price point, and specific features.
Customer Support and Post-Purchase Experience
Devonialondon.co.uk: The lack of direct contact methods on the homepage could indicate a less robust or immediate customer support system. This could lead to challenges for customers needing assistance with orders, product issues, or returns.
Established Retailers: They generally invest heavily in customer service infrastructure. This includes:
- Dedicated Customer Service Teams: Available via various channels (phone, email, chat).
- Clear Return and Refund Policies: Outlined explicitly, making the post-purchase process transparent.
- Physical Presence: Many have brick-and-mortar stores, allowing for in-person support, returns, and expert advice.
- Comprehensive FAQs: Extensive self-help resources to address common queries.
Marketing and Brand Presence
Devonialondon.co.uk: Leverages its retail partnerships with The Chelsea Gardener, World’s End Nurseries, and future presence at B&Q to boost its brand credibility. This is a smart move, but their direct online presence still needs to match the transparency levels of these partners.
Established Retailers: Benefit from extensive marketing budgets, national advertising campaigns, and decades of brand recognition. Their presence is often multi-channel, encompassing online sales, physical stores, and strong community engagement (e.g., RHS events and membership).
In essence, while Devonia London offers a neat package of gardening products, the established retailers provide a more comprehensive and reassuring experience due to their deep-rooted infrastructure, transparent operations, and proven track records in customer service and legal compliance. For customers prioritising peace of mind and robust support, the larger, more transparent alternatives currently hold an advantage.
FAQ
How can I verify the legitimacy of Devonialondon.co.uk?
To verify the legitimacy of Devonialondon.co.uk, look for clear contact information (phone number, email, physical address), easily accessible legal pages (Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions), and integration with reputable third-party review platforms like Trustpilot. While the site mentions retail partnerships, independent verification of these claims and transparent business details are crucial.
Does Devonialondon.co.uk offer a phone number for customer service?
Based on the homepage content, Devonialondon.co.uk does not prominently display a direct phone number for customer service. This lack of immediate contact options can be a red flag for customers seeking quick assistance.
Is there a physical address listed for Devonialondon.co.uk?
No, a clear, verifiable physical business address for Devonialondon.co.uk is not prominently listed on its homepage or in the readily accessible sections of the site. This omission can reduce consumer confidence.
What types of products does Devonialondon.co.uk sell?
Devonialondon.co.uk sells “essential & innovative products for indoor & outdoor gardening,” including fertilizers, landscaping materials, edging products, and general gardening lifestyle items. Law123.co.uk Review
Are Devonialondon.co.uk products organic and eco-friendly?
Yes, Devonialondon.co.uk states that they “make organic, eco-friendly, low-impact products” and are committed to growing greener, supporting pollinators like bees.
Does Devonialondon.co.uk have customer reviews on its website?
The website mentions being “Highly Reviewed” and features a section “What our Customers say,” but it does not immediately show visible testimonials or direct links to independent external review platforms on its homepage.
Can I find Devonia London products in physical stores?
Yes, Devonia London states that their products are retailed at The Chelsea Gardener and World’s End Nurseries, and will be available online via B&Q from March 2025.
What are the main benefits of Devonia London’s fertilizer products?
Devonia London’s fertilizer products, such as spikes and sticks, are designed for “no mess, no scheduling,” offering slow-release nutrients directly to plant roots to keep plants lush, succulents vibrant, and vegetables productive.
Does Devonialondon.co.uk offer international shipping?
The provided homepage text does not contain information regarding international shipping. Customers would need to check the delivery policy or contact the company directly for details on shipping outside the UK.
How does Devonialondon.co.uk position itself against competitors?
Devonialondon.co.uk positions itself by highlighting “innovative, low-maintenance solutions” and an “environmentally conscious” approach, aiming to make gardening easy for all skill levels.
Are there any subscription services offered by Devonialondon.co.uk?
Based on the provided homepage content, there is no explicit mention of subscription services or recurring billing for products or membership plans. Purchases appear to be one-off transactions.
What is “Devonia World” on the website?
“Devonia World” is the blog section of Devonialondon.co.uk, dedicated to gardening insights, product highlights, and expert advice to make gardening enjoyable and rewarding.
Is the Devonialondon.co.uk website secure for purchases?
While the homepage doesn’t explicitly state security measures, a professional e-commerce site should use SSL encryption (indicated by “https://” in the URL) to secure transactions. Users should look for a padlock icon in their browser’s address bar.
Does Devonialondon.co.uk have a return policy?
The provided homepage text does not detail a return policy. Reputable online retailers usually have a clear return and refund policy accessible via a link in the footer. Onebear.co.uk Review
How long has Devonia London been in the gardening business?
Devonia London claims to have “over 18 years in the gardening business,” indicating extensive experience in the field.
What are the primary concerns about Devonialondon.co.uk from a consumer trust perspective?
Primary concerns include the lack of prominent direct contact information, absence of a visible physical business address, and less accessible legal documents (Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions) from the homepage.
Does Devonialondon.co.uk provide gardening advice?
Yes, through their “Devonia World” blog, they offer insights, product highlights, and expert advice on various gardening topics, such as fertilising trees, shrubs, tomatoes, and spring planting.
Can I buy Devonia London products on Amazon or eBay?
Yes, the website provides direct links to “Shop at Amazon” (https://www.amazon.com/s?me=A11EEXPVJI2F1T&marketplaceID=A1F83G8C2ARO7P) and “Shop at eBay” (https://www.ebay.co.uk/usr/devonialondon), confirming their presence on these platforms.
How do Devonia London’s products cater to different gardening skill levels?
Devonia London states that their products are “Perfect for All Gardeners,” designed for both amateur gardeners and professionals, to help everyone achieve a thriving garden without needing “green fingers.”
What is the typical delivery timeframe for Devonialondon.co.uk orders?
The homepage text does not provide information on typical delivery timeframes. Customers would need to proceed to the checkout process or look for a separate delivery information page to find these details.
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