There’s No Smoke, But They’re Trying To Start A Fire

A very old customer is in my checkout lane. I’m talking ancient. They are moving very slow, and everyone is being very patient with them due to their obvious advanced age.

Customer: *As they’re laying out their items on my belt.* “Oh, and I want [cigarettes].”

Me: “All tobacco purchases can be made at the tobacco counter right next to the exit.”

Customer: “What?! But I’m old! Ring them up for me here.”

Me: “I understand, but you would need to pass the tobacco counter on your way to the exit anyway. I can see it right here and there’s currently no line.”

Customer: “Stop being lazy and looking for excuses not to sell me my cigarettes!”

Me: “I’m not being lazy. I am not allowed to sell tobacco products at this checkout lane. It’s the law that all tobacco products are sold from specific tobacco counters.”

Customer: “That’s total b*llocks and you know it!”

Me: “I’m afraid there’s nothing else I can say on the matter.”

Customer: “Back in my day, stores gave out good service!”

Next Customer In Line: “And back in your day, cigarettes were a food group. Times change! Buy your cancer sticks at the counter and let the rest of us get on with our day!”

The customer seemed to lose steam when confronted by the customer, and finished their purchase with a low continuous grumble.