Pets At Home Kingston Park (and probably everywhere) clearly bully their staff into reaching data harvesting targets.
For sweet FA in return, ime. St least Tesco and M&S give incentives.
The last time I was in there the cashier asked me for my date of birth. I mean, they’re not happy with the data that they already have - by getting you to sign up for the fucking app, which in itself was done under pressure. They want a bit more information every time you go in. Next time it would have been blood group, I’m sure.
I’ve successfully avoided them for about a year, but was collecting something from Curry’s next door so thought I’d quickly pick up a little item that I needed. Boy did I regret it.
Closing time, everybody wants go home, including me.
I’m standing with the item in my left hand and my card, visible, resting on the desk, in my right hand.
We’ve communicated with a quick smile & eye contact.
Cashier says, in a tone of voice that makes it sound compulsory:
Can I have your loyalty card please?
Me: No thanks. I don’t bother.
(I’m studiously looking down at the card machine.)
Cashier: Is there any particular reason why?
Me: Not really, I just don’t like it. (Still looking down. Clearly I want to pay and go.)
Cashier: Oh really, why not? (He still hasn’t put the transaction through. I’m held to random.)
I’m starting to get pissed off now. Here we go Again, I think.
Me: I’m fine, honestly. I just don’t think it’s worth it.
(Still not making eye contact with him, still waiting for him to put my transaction through on the card machine, still waiting to pay and Be Released.)
Him (Mansplaining tone of voice fucking dripping with condescension): Did you realise that every time you use the app, charities receive a donation?
Me: I like to be aware of which charities I’m giving to, thanks
Looking at you, M&S and your history with Mermaids
Him: (offended, closing his eyes and tilting his head back, I’ll-have-you-know tone of voice) ALL of our charities are legitimate animal charities, etc etc
Me: I’m starting to feel really bullied now. You need to inform the people who are putting you under pressure to do this, that you are in turn making customers feel under pressure.
Him (regrettable tone of voice, shaking head) It’s not bullying.
What I wanted to say, and will say now, if you’ll allow me, is FUCK OFF. Leave me alone. I ran in here quickly to buy one item and you’ve harassed me to the point you’re making my heart race.
What I did do, after I’d paid and taken one step away from the desk, was get him to return the item and reimburse me. It was the only think I could think of to protest. I didn’t desperately need it. I can get it online.
Pets at Home: Shove your pet food. There are many, many ways to buy pet food these days, including having it delivered to one’s door.
You REALLY, seriously, need to re-think this policy of harassment.