From Kiplinger · · 1m 20s
Kelly Clarkson's Store Frustration
Kelly Clarkson's bad shopping experience sparks debate over customer treatment.
In brief
Kelly Clarkson's bad shopping experience sparks debate over customer treatment. Kelly Clarkson criticized Art of Play store for treating her as unaffordable, but the store says the bird automaton she wanted isn't for sale. Originally reported by Kiplinger.
Kelly Clarkson's Shopping Incident
Kelly Clarkson felt unwelcome at a New York store after being treated as if she couldn't afford items she wanted to buy.
“Just drove all the way to Brooklyn to check out this store I thought looked really rad and had a few things in mind to buy and literally was looked at as if I couldn't afford it and was told he could find something comparable for me”
Art of Play's Response
Art of Play stated that Kelly Clarkson was inquiring about a one-of-a-kind singing and dancing bird automaton named Molly, which is not for sale.
“a one-of-a-kind singing and dancing bird automaton named Molly”
Store's Welcome Policy
Art of Play said they welcome both shoppers who make purchases and those who simply look around for a while.
“whether someone comes in to make a purchase or simply look around for a while, they are equally welcome”
Public Reaction
Online users criticized the store for treating Kelly Clarkson as if she couldn't afford items she wanted to buy.
“People saying 'maybe he didn't know who Kelly Clarkson was' are missing the point that they should be treating their customers like everyone is Kelly Clarkson”
Lizzie Post's Advice
Lizzie Post, co-president of the Emily Post Institute, advised communicating calmly with store staff if feeling disrespected while shopping.
“The more calm that you can remain when other people are either intentionally or unintentionally being jerks, the better off you are”
Sharing Experience
Kelly Clarkson was allowed to share her experience publicly after a conversation with the store, but she chose to post online instead.
“I do think giving someone a fair shot to address the issue is fair”
Choosing Battles
If a shopping experience is bad, it's better to move on and spend money elsewhere rather than escalate the situation.
“If you've acted calmly and a reasonable attempt at understanding has gone poorly, you can simply choose to move on, avoid further escalation and spend your money elsewhere”
Here's the gist
Kelly Clarkson criticized Art of Play store for treating her as unaffordable, but the store says the bird automaton she wanted isn't for sale.
