Letter to Speedy Mart

Gramz Quilts — Wed, 02 May 2012 00:45:00 GMT

May 1, 2012

Owner

Speedy Mart

1175 Broadway

Chesterton, IN 46304

Dear Sir or Madam:

Today around noon I stopped at your gas station. At pump number one I inserted my credit card a couple of times but an error message said to pay inside. I spoke with the cashier, whom I heard describe herself to another customer as the manager, and explained that I needed to fill up my tank. She asked for my credit card, scanned it, tucked it away above her head, and told me to return to sign after I filled up. In utter shock that she put my card away rather than returning it to me, I asked if she was keeping my card. She said I could have it back after I returned to sign for the purchase. I admitted to her I was a little freaked out about leaving my card there. She seemed offended and said I had to leave something to guarantee payment. Since my card had already been scanned, I offered my driver's license instead. I pumped the gas and returned to sign the purchase receipt and to retrieve my license as soon as possible.

I completely understand the need to prevent a drive-off. However, since the card was already scanned I do not understand the need to keep my card or my license to guarantee payment; after all, I have completed thousands of purchases at the pumps with never a signature required. I think my card was scanned twice, and that bothers me.

Having a certain amount of common sense, I have never allowed relatives or even close friends to use my credit card, never mind leaving one with a complete stranger. Needless to say, I will not be stopping at your station again.

I am sorry your manager was so offended by my incredulity, but I was even more offended by her actions.

When I described this experience to a friend, he said it has become common practice for gas stations to send the customer inside as it increases spontaneous sales. I hope he is wrong about that; some days are very busy and it is a huge convenience to be able to pump the gas and continue my other errands without having to lock up the car (and the children, and the dog, and the groceries) to go inside to pay.

I hope you can find another way to deal with other customers with similar situations or, regretfully, you will be losing more business than just mine.

Sincerely,

Gramz's Blog : gas station, credit card

Letter to Speedy Mart