Miss Manners: Paper proprietor prohibits peckish patrons
I own a shop where I sell fine paper goods. After countless coffee spills and food stains on merchandise, I posted a “NO FOOD OR DRINK ALLOWED” sign next to the front door. People still walk in with greasy pizza slices, drippy ice cream cones and overflowing cups of coffee.
When I restate my policy and point to a tray where they can set their food or drink while they shop, they glare at me and storm out like I’m the bad guy. Is there a way to enforce my rule with no hard feelings?Signs indeed hold authority -- and humans can conveniently blame them when enforcing the rules proves awkward. Sheepishly pointing to one and presenting a parking tray for the offending food and drink is about all you can do.
Miss Manners hopes that if ill-mannered and inconsiderate patrons walk out, you may take comfort in knowing that the loss of a potential sale is less costly than a batch of greasy, unusable stationery. Your better-behaved customers will appreciate it.If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.
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