That never make a purchase? I’m consistently astounded by it, year after year. I own a military surplus store with a 1500 sq ft military museum inside. Obviously my offerings fall well into discretionary spending. I know full well that 50% of my browsers won’t make a purchase. And I’m fine with that. I get a lot of great conversations and I get to touch history every day. Yet the customers who just can’t stop gushing about how awesome the place is and how amazing the museum is and how they’re so glad we’re here never even buy a $2.95 pin from us. Just don’t get it.

I always go out of my way when a customer makes a purchase and thanks me to stop them and say, “No, thank you!” I tell every customer like this that it’s because they choose to come to my business and spend their hard earned money here that I’m still here when they come back. That they are the reason I can pay my expenses and keep my business going. It usually stuns them but leaves them smiling and agreeing.

End of rant. Was wondering if anyone else experiences this phenomenon at their shops?