Four types of M&S customer that ’employees hate’

An ex-Marks & Spencer employee revealed the four types of customers that staff simply can’t stand – and claims he can spot every single one just by looking at them.

While shoppers may think they’re being polite to the retail workers, they could actually be causing problems without realising.

Common gripes include fumbling around with loose change, not being mindful of others’ time and oversharing at the till. So have you commited any of these shopping sins?

1) Turning up just before closing time

Speaking out in a juicy TikTok video, former M&S staff member Monty said this is a big no-no. He revealed he hates it when “a customer comes in five minutes before closing time and your shift is ending.”

This is likely because shopping so close to closing time can make it tricky for staff to pack up in time. This could mean they end up working over-time, so try to arrive earlier if you can.

2. Stingy customers

Monty also drew attention to shoppers at M&S Simply Food garage forecourts who would exceed their fuel amount by 1p and flatly refuse to pay the extra penny.

Even though it isn’t the fault of employees when customers go over budget, they can be on the receiving end of anger and frustration when this occurs.

3. Oversharers

We get it, everyone has bad days. In fact, there are times where the only person you might see in a day will be shop assistants or strangers.

However, you should be mindful of oversharing and making people feel awkward. Monty said: “Every retail worker has mastered this skill of acting like you care”.

The former shop worker made it clear he was simply there to earn his wages, not to lend an ear.

4. People who fumble around for change

Monty’s final grievance was directed at shoppers who would hand till operators their money without providing change.

While this is common, it would be very irritating when they would then produce the exact change required – especially when the amount had already been keyed into the till.

Recalling the infuriating customer habit, he said: “When the customer’s total is £5.46 and they give you a tenner so you press £10 on the till but they give you 51p to get a note back.”

So there you have it – four customer habits you should avoid next time you’re in M&S. They could end up saving employees a big headache!