I just wanted to get some outside perspective on something that’s been bothering me.
There’s an employee at my local supermarket (she works the self checkouts) who I’ve had a few uncomfortable run-ins with. I usually shop with my 5 year old and with my toddler in his pram, and I’ve noticed she always seems to scan the pram with her eyes, like she’s checking whether I’ve hidden anything or forgotten to scan something.
A few times now, she’s come over and pointed out personal items in the pram (today it was a bottle of sunscreen) to ask if I picked it up in store. The way she asks makes me feel like she thinks I’m trying to steal. It’s really awkward and makes me feel embarrassed, especially when I haven’t done anything wrong. As my partner pointed out, I could just say “no, I didn’t” even if I had, so what is she to gain?
Another time, I realised after paying that I had accidentally picked up two jars of honey but only needed one. I went straight back over to her and handed her the one I didn’t want, explaining the mistake. Instead of saying thank you, she asked if I’d scanned the other jar! It really made me feel like my honesty was being questioned.
She’s done something similar to my partner too on a separate occasion, so it’s not just me. In the end, I’ve started avoiding the place altogether and now usually drive to a different town or go to a different supermarket instead for because I just don’t want the hassle or the judgement.
I get that staff have to be aware of shoplifting, but I feel like there’s a line and I’m not sure if this crosses it or if I’m overreacting. Has antone else experienced this kind of thing? Repeatedly!? Its only this employee and only this store for me..