Stores Shop Assistants Reduced

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Most malls have something called the anchor store. It could be  a department store like Sears, which went out of business in our city before COVID-19, if I'm not mistaken. It could be a mega grocery store.

What I’ve noticed is that there are fewer sales assistants on the floor, than before. Sections that used to have dedicated staff don’t have them anymore. Example. In the local uptown department store, the furniture guy is gone, not on vacation but has been missing for about six months. Formal wear like evening dresses is still there but no dedicated staff person. Is the internet responsible? Are more people shopping online?

“I buy everything online.”

One woman said that in an interview. She didn’t elaborate and I wish the interview had been longer because what is everything? Probably clothes for the family, kitchen stuff, sheets and duvets, DIY tools and even food. Grocery stores deliver fruit and vegetables, seafood, rotisserie chicken, maple syrup, detergent, everything on your list.

Floor staff are priceless because they know store secrets. One time, I went to a clothing store, looking for winter boots on sale. I didn’t see them in the SALE corner. Fortunately, there was one floor assistant available. She said she had some boots in the back and asked me my size.

As luck would have it, the sale price was right for me, and I tried them on. Perfect fit. I went to the cashier’s desk and she was nowhere to be found. I moved around and saw her helping another customer. I waited patiently. She came back with the customer in tow and apologized profusely. I was not vexed. She gave me a blog idea.

It’s only the Retail Association that can explain the paucity of store floor staff now. I would like to know the reason because there are certain things I will never buy online. Shoes for example. I suspect that my feet are not the same. That’s why I try on shoes before I buy them.

Nonqaba waka Msimang

Blogger Without Borders

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