Last week I parked at a Staples store in Leicester. I
decided I needed to buy a birthday card for my wife and would then
get my stationery. I returned just over an hour later to find a £69
parking ticket on my car.
Now initially I admit I was annoyed. Though I knew it was my own
fault, for not noticing the signs. I also had lost my appetite for
shopping at Staples. For me linking your brand with security firms
that seek out unsuspecting opportunities for high income generation
is crazy. If it had been £25 I could understand. The silly thing is
I spend about £30 a month on stationery and this will only go up.
Therefore sorry Staples I am on-line with a competitor from now
on.
However, I decided the best way to look at it is to think of the
positives. I realised what a great job and life I have. I live by
the principle that you should always add more value than you are
paid. How can you do that when you are looking out for prey in
quiet car parks.
So what is the message. Firstly, if you have a brand be careful
what you link it too. Secondly, look on the bright side, there is
always someone with a worst job than you.
Thirdly, ensure you are doing something positive that gives value
rather than prays on the minor mistakes of others
By the way I am not against parking control as long as it is
fair.