I can’t say I’ve ever been offended or particularly aware of an UNpleasantness among the HD check out staff. However, I agree that they really don’t match up with the rest of the HD staff in terms of friendliness and helpfulness.

Good observation. Great question.

Perhaps, but I am not sure that I would want to purchase more items as that would prolong my interaction with check-out staff.

Do you have a similar experience/impression of the register clerks at Home Depot?

I really like HD too. Sometimes I just go there to wander around and look at cool new stuff, tools, gadgets, whatever! Even when I am going there for something specific it takes way longer than it should, since I just wander around.

In terms of the checkout staff, perhaps they INTENTIONALLY provide you with a poor checkout experience as a way to keep you wandering the store longer. More time in the store might mean increase in sales! Even if it is subconscious, knowing that an unpleasant experience awaits at checkout might make you take a little more time inside the store where it’s nice and warm and friendly.