Had to make a video conference call the other day and I needed a gadget to make it all work. So thought I'd pop into Maplins our resident local techie and gadget shop on the way to work.
Parked outside at 08.50 and the store opened at 09.00. Not a problem, so I hung around the store entrance at one with my thoughts 
At 08.55, the stores doors opened and gangly youth in company attire came out.
Me: "Are you open now?"
Youth: "Erm dunno, don't think so... <after some thought> no it opens at 9"
The youth then stands next to me and sparks up a fag 
Bearing in mind we are standing in the door way of Maplins. I just turn, look at him and start coughing. He then scuffles about 6 feet to his right and blows out a cloud of smoke. I cough again and he slouches off behind the building.
As thoughts of "I wonder what the store manager would think if he saw that" cross my mind, I realise a second youngster, but attired in a shirt and tie is actually also standing outside the front pushing adjusting a display.
As it turns 9 oclock, I ask the shirt wearing and obviously the senior of the pair if I can set foot in their establishment. I'm told the store is now open.
30 seconds later, I've got my gadget, paid and walking out the door bemused. Maybe next time I'll order it online!
Just goes to show with these larger chains, customer service and retail experience is only as good as the last member of staff you interacted with.
Somehow though I doubt very much you would find any employees smoking outside the main doors of any Tescos, Sainsburys, WH Smith, MacDonalds branches, or in fact any other major retail group?
Maybe it's more relaxed, cool and funky at Maplins Stratford?
