And another one bites the dust.
This review reflects my last three visits to the Bucktown location, and at this point, the experience feels consistent, not coincidental.
As a Black man living in Chicago, I'm very aware of how it feels to be watched or treated differently in retail spaces. Anyone is capable of theft, but no one should be made to feel like a suspect based on stereotypes. That kind of treatment is uncomfortable, demoralizing, and unnecessary.
I've shopped at Binny's for years because of their selection and pricing, but across multiple locations, including Lakeview, South Loop, and now Bucktown, I've had similar experiences. At Bucktown, my first few visits were fine, which made this even more disappointing.
On my most recent visit, I was in and out in about three minutes. While heading to the register, I noticed intense attention from staff, and someone quickly positioned themselves near the front as if anticipating I might run out. It didn't feel like normal customer service, it felt like I was being monitored.
I want to be clear: I'm describing how this experience felt from my perspective. But after multiple visits and similar patterns across locations, it's hard to ignore.
If you value feeling comfortable while you shop, pay attention to how you're treated here. Respect and basic acknowledgment should be standard for everyone.
It might be time to renew that Costco Membership, which is right around the corner from this location. read more