Grocery Store Pet Peeves

Navigating the grocery store can be a surprisingly fraught experience. While most shoppers are simply trying to efficiently gather their provisions, certain behaviors can disrupt the peace and create unnecessary frustrations for fellow shoppers and store employees alike. Let's address some common grocery store faux pas and how to avoid them.

Mind Your Produce

The produce section is often the first stop for many shoppers, but it's also a frequent site of unintentional disrespect. The employees work tirelessly to create appealing displays and keep everything stocked, so it's important to treat the fruits and vegetables with care.

• Avoid Creating a Mess: Refrain from peeling corn husks, onion skins, or outer lettuce leaves and leaving them on the floor. Dispose of unwanted parts in the designated receptacles or take them with you.
• Handle with Care: Resist the urge to aggressively squeeze, shake, or otherwise manhandle the produce. Gentle handling minimizes bruising and damage.
• Don't Wreck the Display: If you're searching for the perfect avocado or tomato buried beneath a pile, avoid dismantling the entire display. Carefully lift items to find what you need, and gently replace the rest.

Return Unwanted Items Properly

Changing your mind about a purchase is perfectly acceptable, but abandoning perishable items in random locations throughout the store is not. Food waste is a significant problem, and leaving items to spoil contributes to the issue.

• Don't Abandon Perishables: If you decide against buying a refrigerated or frozen item, return it to its designated section immediately.
• Inform Store Staff: If you are unsure where an item belongs, hand it to a store employee. They can ensure it is properly returned to its place.
• Butcher Counter Orders: If you ordered meat from the butcher counter, stick with your order. Once it leaves the counter, it cannot be resold.

Cart Etiquette

The shopping cart is an essential tool, but it can also become an obstacle if not handled responsibly.

• Don't Block the Aisle: Avoid leaving your cart unattended in the middle of the aisle while you browse the shelves. This forces other shoppers to navigate around it, creating congestion and frustration.
• Position Your Cart Thoughtfully: Park your cart to the side of the aisle or in a less-trafficked area while you examine products.
• Be Mindful During Peak Hours: If the store is crowded, consider waiting until the aisle is less congested before grabbing what you need.

Phone-Free Checkout

While multitasking is a common practice, the checkout line is not the place for extended phone conversations.

• Hang Up the Phone: Refrain from engaging in phone calls while checking out. It's disrespectful to the cashier and delays the process for other customers.
• Focus on the Transaction: Give the cashier your undivided attention while they scan your items and process your payment.
• Engage with Employees: Instead of talking on the phone, consider greeting the cashier or engaging in a brief conversation. You might be surprised by what you learn.

Responsible In-Store Drinking

Some grocery stores offer the option to enjoy a beverage while shopping, but it's crucial to do so responsibly.

• Drink Responsibly: Just like driving, avoid excessive drinking while navigating the store.
• Avoid Erratic Movements: Consuming alcohol can impair your judgment and coordination, leading to accidents with other shoppers, employees, and displays.
• Dispose of Your Glass Properly: Return your empty glass to the designated area.

Cart Corral Commitment

Returning your shopping cart to the designated corral is the final act of responsible grocery shopping.

• Return Your Cart: Don't leave your cart in the parking lot where it can damage vehicles or become a hazard.
• Place Cart Inside the Corral: Push your cart completely inside the corral, not just near it.
• Ask for Assistance if Needed: If you have difficulty returning your cart, don't hesitate to ask a fellow shopper or store employee for help.