Coles Supermarkets

Enjoyed shopping until I got to the checkout. The cashier asked me if the hand wipes that I was purchasing were on special. When I answered, "Yes", they replied in a deadpan voice, "Did you leave some on the shelf?" I didn't know how to take this as to whether they were having a joke or not. They continued scanning and then stopped holding one of my loaves of bread, demanding further with, "Why do you have to buy half loafs?". I reluctantly replied and they kept scanning. At the time of paying for my groceries they informed me that they buy a large loaf of bread and use some and freeze the rest. They pointed their finger at me and sternly advised me, "Let that be a lesson to you". I left exasperated. So very pleased that I did not buy any personal products as I'm sure I would have been advised on them too. A simple 'hello' and 'have a nice day' would have been sufficent for me.

The highlight of this store for me is the meat section; it is excellent. Bread is well stocked, but bakery items can be overcooked and boring. The refrigerated section can be disappointing as often cheese items are deteriorated in quality and milk does not last long. The fruit and vegetable section of this store can be quite poor and items placed out late. Customer service with younger employees is commendable. More experienced staff range from very pleasant and helpful to 'Christmas Grinch' all year round. I was berated by a staff member 3 times in the self-serve section for lifting my first bag packed too early. One time I queued at a check out (there aren't many check-outs!) to be greeted with distain. I was purchasing a baking tray and had a small item on top and noticed it had blended in with the baking tray. I mentioned to the check-out operator that there was a tiny item on top to be scanned. The operator picked it up and threw it further back on the conveyor belt.

Here on holidays, quick visit to Coles and all the end specials are bare and nearly empty ?? hardly see this back in Melbourne