I agree totally about the value of good customer service, and also about the importance of supporting independent retailers.

My pet hates when shopping are loud yah-yah music, staff with loud voices, staff gossiping, staff who don't know their stock, and staff who treat you like a nuisance. I have reached an age where I have no shame and now ask for music to be turned down, or ask for the manager, or suggest that they serve me first and then resume their conversation. I do this in every place I shop, from banks to pharmacies to chain stores. Fortunately it does not happen very often and is always worse in cities.