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Why Does Radio Shack Ask You For Your Address Every time I Try to Make A Purchase?
Introduction
Every time I make a purchase at Radio Shack I find myself waiting in line for the cashier while everyone, no matter how mundane the purchase, is asked for their name and address.
I was never actually sure why this is necessary, so I decided to find out.
My Approach
I thought of going to the local Radio Shack and asking the casher why Radio Shack insists this practice, but I figured he or she would be so busy typing other customer's names and personal addresses it would be an hour before I left the store.
I decided to write Radio Shack and email simply asking why do Radio Shack cashiers take everyone's name and address. I also added that this practice slows the checkout process and tends to annoy people in line.
Radio Shack Response to Why They Take Name and Address Information
It took a couple days but Radio Shack did respond with the following message:
Mr. _________,
Received August 31st
RadioShack has been collecting name and address information for many years. We use that for our mailer and certain purchases require it that have billing attached to it, such as cellular phones and extended warranties. It also helps us look up receipts when customers misplace them. We do not sell our mailing list to other companies. I am sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused but it does help me resolve many customer issues in the long run.
Sincerely,
"Pat" _________
Poll
What Do You Think Of Radio Shack's Personal Information Policy
My Thoughts
Good answer I suppose, but I still ask, is it really necessary for Radio Shack to take down the names and addresses of every customer? Sure, major purchases and cell phones I can understand. But wouldn't the simple question, "Do we already have your name and address in our system?" suffice?
The email states they need the information to send out mailers. OK, seriously, does anyone really want more junk mail? Is it really worth Radio Shack's time and money to send me a catalog for those few batteries I purchased? Isn't there this thing called "The Internet" they might try using?
Even the issue of lost receipts I question. I mean, half the stuff in the store is the Radio Shack brand. Where else could I have bought it?
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