Been coming to Block Island myself for 40 years, and my family for several generations. We always love going to Star department store and purchasing clothes and souvenirs for ourselves and friends.
Today I watched as the woman behind the counter was rude to my friend, then rude to an older couple, and finally rude to us and our child who dropped a ball that the merchandisers of the shop have chosen to market directly next to their ramp. Even after we attempted to apologize, she double downed on escalating the situation and made everyone uncomfortable. The older couple left without their merchandise because they seemed shocked to be spoken to in such a way over a normal transaction. She seemed to be extremely overwhelmed with the small amount of off-season customers and could not care less about professionalism or kindness.
Having worked retail and service for MANY years (including two shops and one restaurant on the island in my youth)I understand that the customer is NOT always right. However, her responses to multiple customers who asked simple questions in polite manners were met with a completely inappropriate and incongruent responses. Several of these altercations occurred after individuals had already spent money on merchandise.
While we love the selection of items the store has to offer, I do not think we will be shopping there again any time soon. It was very disheartening to have this experience since other shops such as Block Star or the Block Island Trading company we are consistently met with smiles and professionalism.
Disappointing experience overall, where we all left feeling shaken and upset. The only positive was that she seemed to treat everyone coldly regardless of...
   Read moreStarr has been a part of block island trips in my family for literally 30 years. I can find in my mother's house probably 30+ t shirts, sweatshirts and more from this store from over the years. The owners are so amazing in the community, and have done a great job running this store through the challenging time of COVID.
I'm really proud to live in a community that values diversity and equity, and this store, it's ownership, is a part of that. Thank you for valuing all in our community and showing others that we...
   Read moreTheir customer service is terrible. I had a very helpful girl try and find me another size but my sister was talked to very rudely. She did not see any sign that said no food or drink and one of the employees rudely told her to get out but only once she had purchased and item. And once she was forced to leave I was still waiting for the shirt and I heard the employee and a customer talking about her and making fun of her. This is disgusting behavior and...
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