A debate has erupted among supermarket shoppers over the unwritten rule that those with only a few items should be allowed to jump ahead of customers with full trolleys. The discussion, which took place on the Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK Facebook group, has divided opinion on whether this act of courtesy is expected or should be offered voluntarily.
Supporters of the practice argue it is a simple kindness that benefits everyone. One shopper wrote: "Yes, usually they are through and paid before I have finished unpacking." Another said: "I always let them in front if they only have a couple of bits." Some see it as a matter of good karma, with one commenter stating: "Yes of course good karma to be nice to people that's how I was brought up."
However, not everyone agrees. Critics point out that the rule can be abused, with one person noting: "No cos last time I did that their mate turned up with more shopping than me." Another expressed frustration at the expectation: "People shouldn't ask if they can go in front; they should wait to be offered. Really annoys me when it's just expected of them like we all have to wait."
Etiquette expert John-Paul Stuthridge, who works with language learning site Preply, weighed in on the matter. He told Metro: "Few gestures of kindness are so easy to implement with zero cost to the person who performs it. If you have a full trolley, I'd always suggest taking a quick look behind to see if anyone has just a couple of things. It makes no difference to you, but a big difference to them." He emphasised that while it is courteous to offer, it should not be demanded.
