Happy shopping from across the pond

I am a regular visitor to the US and have recently returned from a roadtrip around the Deep South taking in Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana.


Now this part of the country is famed for its friendliness and I left the area with my faith in humanity affirmed.

Perhaps the aspect of America’s amicability that is most prevalent is in stores and malls where one is frequently greeted with a “How ya’all doing?” and I think it’s something the UK could learn from. As a stranger and more importantly, a potential customer, a smile and a polite welcome are key in relaxing you for a shopping experience.

I recall a visit to the Adidas store in San Diego a few years ago - I wanted a pair of trainers (or should that be sneakers!) and the assistant could not have been more helpful, fetching any number of assorted colours and styles. As it turned out, I decided against a purchase, but the assistant wasn’t fazed or perturbed and even uttered the immortal “have a nice day” as I left empty-handed.

Now I understand that US retail culture reflects their service based industry, with most working on commission or for tips and that this isn’t always the case in the UK, but I think a friendly outlook by staff instils a more amiable atmosphere for all and is conducive to happy shopping. And that’s got to be a good thing, so come on, let’s show a bit of love!

- Tom Jones

Published May 2011