GNC

I get it, you work in a health store in a mall, your life could probably be better and I’m not expecting stellar service when I come in here, and I’m OK with that. But there are some bare bones necessities that I expect from retail regardless of where I am shopping.
I walk in here last Thursday and the associate named Cassey was doing her make up behind the counter in plain sight of all customers coming in. She greeted me with a very apprehensive «how you doing?» but did not stop applying her make up. Now I realize this isn’t a restaurant, but you guys sell stuff that is consumable. At the bare minimum, you should at least try to maintain hygiene standards. I don’t want to see you touching your face and what not, then possible end up handling something I’m going to be putting in my body.
Strike 1.
I take a very specific type of whey protein, because of taste, price, and effectiveness, of which, I’m sure you all have your own equation for protein as well. When I asked her if they carried it, her response was, «Whatever’s on the shelf is what we got.» She made no further effort to say anything else, or do anything else for that matter.
Strike 2.
Lastly, I go to check out, and this is a pet peeve of mine because I know retail regulations in MA because I used to work for both Apple and Tiffany & Co, so if anyone knows how to upkeep their image, its these two companies. Anyways, she very rudely asked me, «Email?» OK, first and foremost, you realize that this is ILLEGAL in the state of Massachusetts right? As in, if your supervisor comes across this review, you should be fired. In the state of MA, retail employees CANNOT ask you for any of your personal information under any circumstances, it is completely illegal. Retail businesses can only take database information if the customer willingly gives it to you, without being inquired to. Yeah, it’s a stupid law, but I don’t make those, I just uphold them when I’m supposed to. Secondly, how could you ask someone that rudely, and actually expect them to give you personal information? Ridiculous. I work right across the street from this location, but because of this experience I’m going to go out of my way to order online from GNC if I need something in the future.

I hate to give GNC a bad review, because in general I love the store, but the lack of stars here solely comes from 1 worker at the GNC in the CambridgeSide Galleria: Tim. (You have to read all of this post, too, you will laugh at how rude this guy is).
I took my friend here (it was her first time to go to a GNC & she was reluctant) and we arrived at about 8:45pm. She was interested in a meal replacement smoothie and I wanted a new water bottle. Tim seemed less than happy that we came into the store late at night. He didn’t say hi or move from behind his counter. I always have great experiences at the GNC in Harvard Square, so I was a little thrown back that he didn’t care we were even there, but whatever.
So I’m looking for a 12-​oz bottle, preferably one with a fun color. Can’t find what I want, and although Mr. Tim can hear me complaining that the big, black water bottle isn’t my style, he says nothing. (Turns out they had teal, pink, and green 12-​oz bottles towards the front that I missed which would’ve been perfect). So, reluctantly, my friend and I decide to get the big, black water bottles. When we get to check out, I ask about meal-​replacement smoothies.
Rather then moving and helping, he points to the stand behind us and says «Yah, those are RTD and good for lunch replacements.» That’s it. Nothing else. Like… what? How is that supposed to convince us that we will like it? And what is RTD?
So I reply «Oh, but are there others that you can shows, too?» And he says «Well, (looks at his watch), that’s the best fit for you, and it’s RTD.» Okay, I have finally realized RTD is «Ready to Drink» but my friend is clueless, and now too scared to buy them. Plus, how does he know it’s my best fit, he doesn’t know anything about us yet! So there goes that sale.
That was annoying but I knew the staff from Harvard Square would be more than willing to help us, so I told her we would go to that one instead. Now we buy these water bottles. Afterwards, when walking out at 8:55pm, I see the 12oz bottles– Pink, green, teal! I’m so happy! :) I turn to Tim and say, «I’m so sorry to do this, but can I exchange? This is exactly what I wanted, but I didn’t know you had it!» (Clearly showing joy here).
He gave me a silent, blank stare. «I mean, just switch the lids so you have the pink one» And I say, «Well, I want a 12oz bottle, not this big one.» He continues arguing with me about just keeping what I have and finally I just say, «OK, sorry but I’m not asking, I’m telling you I want to exchange my bottle.» And I walk myself to the counter. Now the BEST part of this entire post is this:
Once starting the exchange process, he goes «Ughhh, you know you’re a pain in my butt, right?»
… Wait, what?!
Yes, that just happened! Seriously, how does this guy still have a job?! I was in disbelief when I heard him say this. I just looked at my friend and she politely said «We appreciate this so much… thanks?!» (She is way too nice). He grunts and finishes his exchange.
After everything that happened, I walked out a bit steamed. Yes, Tim wanted to leave and go home because it was almost 9pm. But he shouldn’t have horrible customer service for that– and news flash– it wasn’t 9 yet! Had he helped in the first place, he could’ve pointed out the 12oz bottles and none of this would’ve happened.
Lastly, I’m so sorry to be mean, but Tim smelled SO BAD that my friend had to cover her nose the entire time. I’m talking, crazy B.O.that was prevalent from a distance. Not ok.
I’m sure this GNC has other staff members that are friendly and smell better, but in case not, save yourself the hassle and go to the GNC in Harvard Square. You’ll love it there :) See here: