That Return Is A Pipe Dream
(I am the assistant manager at a head shop in a non-legal state, so everything we sell is “for tobacco use only.” For obvious reasons, we do not accept ANY returns. We have signs all over our store that state this. A customer came in and insists on trying to return a used water-pipe.)
Me: “I’m sorry, sir, but due to the nature of our products we can’t accept any returns.”
Customer: “That’s not fair! I didn’t know that before I bought this. You should have told me!”
Me: “Sir, we do have signs displaying our policy, and it’s printed in the receipt as well. I’m sorry we can’t help you, but taking back items like this could endanger our business. Is the product defective? We might be able to offer a discount on a different item.”
Customer: “No, but I found a better deal at [Different Head Shop] and I want that one instead. You have to take it back!”
(I get the manager, we go back and forth like this for a minute. Then, what is honestly the craziest thing I’ve ever seen at my job happens.)
Customer: “This is against the law; this is against my rights! I’m going to call the cops on you!”
Manager: *in a total state of disbelief, because the water-pipe had clearly been used for something that is illegal in our state* “Sir, I’m sorry you’re so upset, but we really can’t return this. If you feel the need to call the police, I can’t stop you.”
(The customer proceeded to actually call the police, who arrived in about 20 minutes. We saw him outside talking to the cop, gesturing with the water pipe that was used for illegal purposes. He didn’t end up in trouble but I believe the water pipe was confiscated.)
Did you find this story from our No Smoking roundup?
Question of the Week
What is the absolute most stupid thing you’ve heard a customer say?
