I'm not sure what it's like on your side of the pond and country, but here in Canada....Retail has become quite the hustle.
More and more brick and mortar retail spots are finding it harder to stay alive, simply because of the beast that is...Amazon. And I'n sure there are many other factors, however as someone who actually works in the space, it always amazes me to see how business literally try to make it harder for their customers to do business with them.
Now inflation happens and prices rise. We get it, but I have seen some crazy things over the past few years in the retail space that truly does make one's head scratch. Again, prices rise...Nothing really most companies can do about that, but some of the other 'tricks' they have pulled recently makes you wonder....Do they actually value their customers.
Over the past few years, the 'loyalty' programs that most stores used to have are now a shell of their former selves. In fact, some of the programs have literally shut down. I think there's no better example of how much a company values their customers by how they treat their loyalty program.
When it changes, it's never a benefit to the customer.
However this isn't the 'rant' of the post, this is to do with their latest 'save the environment' scheme.
Nowadays, most retail stores have this pitch where they say they no longer give customers bags, but they must purchase one. Their angle i this saves the environment which is such a clown show first of all, but it's a blatant lie from the company.
Just be honest....
Tell your customers the truth:
"We now make millions charging you for a bag after your purchases. And it's become a viable and profitable revenue stream to off set losses because of Amazon."
Or something along those lines...
I honestly wouldn't have a problem paying it then lol But masquerading it as an environmental issue is such a joke.
Look, I'm not ignorant to the fact a lot of these stores are suffering, but just be honest!
Case in point, I went clothes shopping yesterday. Which may not be earth shattering news, but then you get to know Jongo and Jongo buys clothes maybe once every 2 years. So when I shop, it's a rare thing lol
I spent quite a bit on some new shirts and sweaters and after I pay, the lady behind the counter puts my receipt on top of my clothes and says thanks...
I just looked at her and asked for a bag. A simple request, I'm not sure how any people buy new clothes and just takes them as is.
She then started her speech about how they charge for bags because it's reusable and good for the environment.
Here's a good example of why retail is failing.
The stores are literally telling customers, we don't really appreciate you and to drive the point home even more, you have to buy bags after your shop.
Welp....Sadly I won't be shopping their anymore, and once again.....Amazon might get a new customer for....Clothing purchases lol
I don't have the answer to this, but I know it's not to make your customers feel unappreciated.
