I really want to love this feed store. I have tried to shop there for over a decade, off and on…read moreagain, but every time I stop in, I am so disappointed. The staff is not particularly friendly, and while helpful, they leave one feeling as if they are an inconvenience or just plain dumb. The last time I was in, I had some questions regarding specific food for our puppy who needed, per our vet, a food that was more grain-forward, and the girl kept showing me high protein brands. When I questioned her again, she looked at her colleagues and rolled her eyes. It is not unreasonable to expect a feed store to have alternative diet options than just grain-free dog food and treats, especially at the price range they in which they are offering their products. What's more, puppy foods do come in more than just chicken, even in brands than what they offer. I went to another store, who offered to help me order it, and when I reached out to the actual company, they sent me my first bag for FREE!
To be a local, small business owner is hard, I get it, but if you continually reject your neighbors, who want to shop at your business, we will just choose to go somewhere else.
On another occasion, I was in line behind an older woman, presumably in her late 60's, who was inquiring about a job, she had completed an application, and had some questions. I was not in a hurry, was not upset, and had not expression to indicate that I was bothered - quite the contrary! The young girl at the service counter was so incredibly rude to this woman, snapped answers to the applicant, rolled her eyes, sighed loudly, and showed very visibly her impatience. The applicant walked out, hopeful. The cashier then handed the application to another woman who had walked up, who just slid it into a folder under the desk, and filed it.
They both apologized profusely to me for the inconvenience and "bother," to which I replied, it is not a crime to seek employment. I explained that I was not in a hurry, and that we all should show kindness to those who are desperately seeking employment at this time of year.
I did note that day that there are no older folks working there, and really no one of diverse background. It is all young girls. Strange really.
Anyway, I realized that day, that this is not really a place I feel I want to do business, especially when every time I go in, I do not feel welcome to shop, to ask questions, or think they even appreciate me as a consumer.
Too bad, as it is a very niche business and vital for many pet and livestock owners.
