Family Dollar — Local services in Westmorland

I am writing to share a concerning experience I had at your Family Dollar store on Monday, August 18th, 2025, at approximately 8:00 AM. I have been a regular customer at this location for quite some time and appreciate its convenience, especially as I live nearby. Overall, I’ve had positive experiences with your staff until this recent incident. That morning, I went shopping with my two young children. Upon entering the store, I noticed that we were not greeted by the employee working at the time, Mark. In my many visits, other employees have always made a point to greet customers, even during busy times, so this stood out to me as unwelcoming.

As I approached the register to check out, I observed and clearly heard Mark on the store landline saying, “Review the cameras.” I found this suspicious and unnecessary, especially since the store had just opened and there were only a few customers inside. I have a background in the military and currently work in the security sector, so I’m particularly aware of how such comments can be perceived.

As soon as I began speaking to him, he abruptly ended the call, saying “Never mind,” and then asked me if I was going to scan the small toy my daughter was holding. I asked if his comment about reviewing the cameras was related to that. His tone and approach made the interaction feel accusatory and uncomfortable.

While he did apologize, the entire exchange left me feeling disrespected and unfairly judged particularly after spending over $100 during that visit, which is the most I’ve ever spent at Family Dollar. The implication that I would attempt to steal a small toy made no sense, especially given the rest of my cart’s contents. I had chosen to shop locally that day instead of going to the city, as my son was feeling unwell, and this experience was disappointing and frustrating.

After leaving the store, another customer an elderly woman asked me what had happened. She shared that she also avoids shopping when Mark is working due to a past negative experience with him regarding a refund, made worse by a language barrier.

I understand that retail environments can be stressful and that loss prevention is important. However, employees must still maintain respectful and professional customer service, regardless of the circumstances. I know Family Dollar was recently sold to capital management firms this year, and I hope this transition includes improved customer service training and accountability measures.

I’ve had positive interactions with other employees at this location, but Mark’s behavior made me feel uncomfortable and disrespected. It may be worth evaluating whether additional training or support is needed to ensure all customers are treated with dignity and fairness.

Thank you for taking the time to read this message. I hope it will lead to a better shopping experience for all customers...

As a transportationally challenged local , this place has helped keep me alive. Large selection of nearly all general items. Very Friendly , helpful staff, usually using time while multitasking. Cashier KEVIN went above and beyond helping me get my card to work after going to 2 other stores and leaving unsuccessfully and very hungry. Thanks to him I was able to get it to work and finally get much needed and appreciated groceries for my daughter and I . Sometimes just that one moment someone is willing to sacrifice of helpfulness, sympathy, respect etc. Can make such a...

It is there. The prices are not that great overall, as in you have to be careful about quality times price equals value. But they are open in our rural areas and do a good with keeping a bigger inventory than many other small grocery stores tend to have. People at this one are always very nice actually. So on one hand I can't say much negative. On the other, these communities deserve more than what is, essentially, a distressed inventory outlet which is not necessarily a bargain...