Ocean State Job Lot — Local services in Barnegat Township

Went to this store for the first time today to see what it's about. I found that they have quite a wide range of products and a large grocery section, most of which are okay prices. I'd say this store is a cross between big lots and At Home. Two things I noticed, though, that I didn't like:

1, there's massive writing on the front of the building that claims they have "brand names at clearance prices" or something along those lines, yet while I was walking around, I noticed that a lot of the name brand stuff was priced the same as everywhere else. A thing of tide laundry was $20, unstoppable scent pellets $18, pool towel $13, solar lights $10 each, zep (household) spray $6, 7x9 indoor/outdoor carpet $85, and so on. Some of these things I bought and most I put back bc it would've cost me $300 or more. No thanks. thats not discounted prices. I can buy these zep sprays alone for less at tjmaxx.

2, nearly the entire time I was in there, I felt like I was being constantly watched and followed. I'm not one that steals, never have, and I'm certainly not one that fits the look of a thief. I ended my trip here short because of how uncomfortable I felt. I should be able to stop walking and look for coupons or price check items without being stalked. Due to this, idk if I would come back.

I will say the one employee who rang me up was extremely nice and helpful. And I really appreciated my stuff...

I read the previous review and it’s pretty upsetting how racist some people can be in this area! I came in during the soft opening and the computers were down, luckily my husband and I had cash. We bought some flower pots, pet supplies and art supplies for our kids at AMAZING PRICES! Though they were having some difficulties the staff was attentive and answered all of our questions! I was approached by maybe five different employees. Not once did I feel uncomfortable! My husband and I were too approached by two employees of color, They were very welcoming and gave us plenty information on their outdoor furniture, which we have considered returning to purchase later this week. There weren’t too many people in the store and everyone seemed to just be doing their job. The store with neat and full though the shelves are a little tight! *We returned on Saturday For the grand opening and pictures Bluey! Much more chaos but my Cashier was funny and Insightful and informative. Good luck to Ocean State Job Lot and good luck to your team!!! Great job guys...

I tried calling the number listed, but it doesn’t seem to go through—it doesn’t ring at all. Instead, I’d like to leave a review regarding two specific employees.

As a first-time visitor, I was casually browsing the aisles to see if anything caught my interest. I was approached by a male employee, an African American man, who asked if I needed help. I politely declined. A short time later, as I moved to the next aisle, a female employee—also African American—walked past me, glancing in my direction. She passed by quickly and then immediately doubled back. As I exited the aisle, I noticed her speaking with the same male employee who had approached me earlier.

This interaction made me feel quite uncomfortable. Unfortunately, I did not catch their names.

On a more positive note, every other employee I encountered was friendly and welcoming, which I truly appreciated. I’m not sure what the intentions were behind the behavior I described, but as a customer, I value being able to shop peacefully without feeling watched or intruded upon during my...