NEWS
EVENTS
Can I see your ID please?
Wednesday 13th March 2013 | Marie
Not everyone thinks they’re lucky when they get asked for ID but did you know that due to real risks to the health and welfare of under 18’s, there are strict laws prohibiting the sale of certain items? It is illegal for a trader to sell age restricted goods and they could be prosecuted, get fined up to £5000 or lose their licence.
However, the experience of being asked for ID can negatively affect you, the shopper, and whether you will return to this location or brand. Staff should always politely request to see your ID, in a non-accusatory manner. Apologising for any inconvenience and explaining that they are obliged by law to double check date of birth will also go a long way to making your shopping experience pleasant.
Not being able to produce your valid ID should also cause as little embarrassment or intimidation to you. The automatic assumption that you are actually underage will make one in every three 18-21 year olds reconsider returning if you have a negative experience.
Being a young person (or looking younger than you are) you would expect to be asked for ID in a friendly, non-accusatory manner with an apology for any inconvenience. Staff should calmly explain that it is obligatory for them to double check.
Market Force work with many well-known brands, conducting mystery shopping visits to check what the experience is like when being asked for ID and want you to tell us how you felt. They are helping develop businesses develop good relationships with this age group. Consistent good service will create customers for life.
The mystery shopping assignments available require that you visit a bar, a pub or a betting shop and follow a scenario (making a purchase or placing a bet) and we want you to complete an online report to tell us what happened and how you felt.
Are bars or betting shops new to you? If you’re worried about stereotypes, don’t be. Many businesses want to attract more customers and move with the times so you will find that their staff are happy to help you place a bet or tell you more about a product.
If you’re interested in getting paid for your customer experience feedback, register with Market Force at http://uk.marketforce.com/
