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I think it's important that I mark my return to blogging by discussing one of the big issues of the moment.
So here's a post about Pret a Manger's policy on bags.
I've noticed in recent weeks that when you buy a sarnie from Pret, they no longer offer you a bag. You have to ask. No big deal. But since I've been back at work they seem to have become more trucculent, but I'd not been able to pin it down. Maybe, I thought, I was imagining it.
This morning I bought a sandwich and drink. I had both hands full with bags. I paid. The items remained on the counter, and the woman serving me then turned to the next person in the queue.
'Could I have a bag for those, please?' I asked.
She looked at me with a withering 'you are the major cause of climate change' look and asked: 'Do you really need one?'
'Yes', I said. 'My hands are full. And why is it your business to ask me that?'.
She sighed, as if she was dealing with the most disgusting human being she had ever encountered. She put the items in a bag deliberately and slowly, then stuck the bag on the counter without saying a word and turned to the next person again.
I've no problem with Pret, or anyone else, not proffering bags as a matter of course. I'd have no problem with them chargjng extra - say 5p, like M&S. if you don't like paying extra, don't buy a bag, or don't shop there.
What makes me think twice about ever shopping in Pret again is the holier than thou attitude - having bags available, free, but then sneering at anyone who actually wants to use one.