Is it wrong to browse at stores you'll never buy anything from? - Page 2

+1

I've always practiced this rule in the US small(er) type boutiques as well...shop the windows/quickly browse thru' inside/don't waste a SA's time unless you intend to buy something... but also don't allow to be pressured into buying something if you don't like it

I definitely don't have an issue going into shops, if I'm asked if I need help I will state "Just browsing today, not looking for anything in particular." Honestly, they should want people in their shops. Because if you see things that you like, even if you don't buy them... maybe you come back around sale time and pick something up, or when you want to treat yourself. Also, I've definitely made friendly conversation with some cool SA's who have directed me to really baller stoes that I didn't know about previously.

I think less of a store if the sales associates appear displeased when I do not buy anything after trying on several items.

I do think it's rude if wasting an SA's time fetching item after item, but more than that, I get really peeved when people try on shoes or leather items and crease them while trying them on - and I've never worked in real retail before... plus, a lot of the men who do things like this, creasing leather shoes or jackets are the people who come in to find out their size so they can order it online cheaper elsewhere - big problem in my country since everything is priced double. I'm guilty of the latter part myself in rare cases, but I'd never damage someone's inventory in the process.

I do the same but to mentally note items of interest. Then I decide for a couple days whether or not it's worth going back to buy if it fits. A second trip to seal to the deal prevents impulse buys and SAs from twisting your arm. They mostly ignore browsers and only turn on the heat when you try a piece on.

I usually go in with the idea that I might find something I like at a good discount, but make sure I look everywhere. Most of the time I find something I like, it isn't on sale and overpriced so I just use the magical Internet to find said item at a reasonable price. Sometimes I do purchase from a store directly, but that doesn't happen often at luxury goods stores.

I often browse without an intent to buy, but usually will not take up the SA's time. On a few occasions I have ended up making purchases, so I see nothing wrong with this practice.

I used to work in retail for a bit and helping the customer was fun, as long as they weren't being obnoxious....or they were diverting my attention away from a really good customer (i.e. someone who was waiting at checkout)

I am the same way, I will let them know up front, "just killing time." or whatever. If the SA still wants to try to sell me something, why not.

I can't say I shop too far out of my price range though, so there is a chance I will buy what I am looking at.

I was a SA for a department store for a few years and I always conformed to the philosophy that I was paid to help customers. It may be an inconvenience but it's not worth stressing out or being rude about. At the end of the day, if a customer unattended and had no intention of buying, then there is no sale anyway; however, if a customer is helped and decided to purchase something, then it's a plus.

I have had the experience of customers coming back looking for me when they did plan to purchase (especially when they were not able to find the item in a lower price). Say "I'm just browsing" and be respectful and it should be a pleasant experience.

I'm planning to do this at Armoury in hong kong any comments?

How many times have you gone into an empty store just to browse and suddenly the place started filling up? Fact is, a crowded store looks good to other customers, even if you're not buying anything. (Think of every Apple store you've ever been to.)

Back when I was a broke-ass junior copywriter in Manhattan, I used to stop in the Paul Stuart store with zero intention of buying anything. I was there to study the fabrics, see what I liked, etc. The sales staff knew me by name, and even though I never bought a thing, were always exceptionally friendly and helpful.

So when it came time to buy my first good suit, that's where I went.

Been back a million times since and introduced others to the place.

That's how it works.

+1, good story and an excellent example of a retailer building goodwill.

Keep in mind that in Italy, there are usually clearly marked prices for each item in the window. We don't have that luxury in the US. Granted, I usually know much something will cost, but I often find myself browsing just to see the price tag.

Feel free, we'll see how long you can resist not buying anything.