Columnist Muriel Stevens: Courtesy still means everything

Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2002 | 8:16 a.m.

What does it cost a business when a rude salesperson mouths off at a disappointed, petulant customer? It could cost big time. I was recently ready to purchase three large amount gift certificates when this happened to me.

I wanted some of the pretty gift cards I'd purchased previously (there was a lovely selection). According to the clerk there was no longer a choice, just a new generic substitute that asked if the customer had remembered to buy diapers. Such an uninspired gift message.

When I voiced my opinion about the new card being the only choice I was told, "You don't have to buy it!"

At that point I called for the manager, who was pleasant, but also didn't seem to care whether or not I made a purchase. A strange attitude when the store in question had just a handful of customers.

Luckily babies are easy to buy for. They're just as happy with a gift box as they are with a present.

It was just a short hop to a Barnes & Noble Booksellers (babies like to chew book corners, too), where I bought three gift vouchers. The accommodating clerk invited me to choose from an assortment of festive gift envelopes. Mission accomplished in minutes.

I toyed with the idea of passing this story on to the company in question, but decided against it. It was too much trouble since I'd already made up my mind not to shop this chain again.

More gripes: With so many stores to choose from these days good customer service is more important than ever. And, I'm happy to note that good service is not limited just to high-end stores such as Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Costco's service is tops and so is Target's. And their service staffs are empowered to make decisions. The new Vons market at Twain Avenue and Maryland Parkway has a terrific, helpful staff. When especially good service is received, anywhere, take the time to fill out and mail a consumer comment card.

Still more gripes: I'm saddened by the loss of Raley's markets in Southern Nevada -- the Northern Nevada stores are not being sold -- as the service was so good.

No one's talking, so I don't know why these stores didn't make it. But I do know that all Southern Nevada Raley's stores will close Oct. 26 and will reopen approximately six weeks later.

Some will become Smith's markets; others will become Food 4 Less. I have no quarrel with any of these stores, but the larger the number of markets in a chain, the more limited the number of independent food choices available to consumers. House brands are OK, but the space they occupy continues to expand and knock off the independents, who often have to pay a slot allowance for space on the shelves.

One final note: It may already be too late, but Raley's markets are having sales, as much as half off regular prices. Not everything is on sale. Some of the best buys are in the freezer cases, including the pricier organic frozen foods. Stocks are already depleted, but it's worth a visit.

The Green Valley Parkway store where I shop will become a Food 4 Less.