Showcase

I had a disappointing experience at The Seaway Mall Showcase store while shopping with my toddler and baby in a stroller. My toddler had entered the store prior to myself, due to its strategically displayed merchandise that can be observed from a distance. This store contains an enticing assortment of items that children of all ages would enjoy. My toddler briefly touched some colourful items displayed at child height — something that is fairly predictable in a retail environment — and was reprimanded by the male cashier, who told me I needed to remain directly beside my child at all times and my presence within the store boundaries was mandatory. I was always within five feet of my toddler during this interaction. Furthermore, my toddler had not shifted any of the items from their original position as they were all contained within a wire basket. This male cashier had a smug smirk as he glared at my child while showing mommy the fun toys in innocent excitement. The store itself is quite narrow, and I had positioned the stroller slightly aside (still within reach of the front display) to avoid blocking the entrance/exit while still supervising my child. There were customers browsing the store and I had wanted to ensure my stroller did not compromise their shopping experience. Within seconds of my toddler touching the merchandise, I immediately got down to my toddler’s level and firmly explained "do not touch anything in this store." My toddler very maturely complied without issue. Despite this, the interaction felt unnecessarily stern and lacking in understanding toward families shopping with young children. On a personal level, I was left feeling as though I had been portrayed as a negligent or inattentive parent, which was both upsetting and unwarranted given the situation. I fully respect that stores need to protect their merchandise, but customer service should also reflect patience and professionalism, especially when children are involved and displays are clearly designed to attract attention at their level. After reading other reviews describing similar treatment toward families, this appears to be a pattern rather than an isolated interaction. Several other reviewers allude to a similar experience with unprofessional staff who threaten security involvement for their unruly children - a statement I find hard to believe following our experience. Families with young children may want to be aware that the environment and staff approach may not feel particularly accommodating for young shoppers. A more respectful and family-friendly approach would make a significant difference to the overall customer experience. As we continued throughout the mall, we were greeted by the most lovely store employees who positively engaged with both my children and restored my faith in the retail industry, of which I have worked. This contrast is a stark reminder that everyone is capable of kindness and Showcase should not be the exception. Alternatively, if your job is not providing the satisfaction you're seeking, then perhaps change is necessary. Needless to say, we will not make any future purchases at this store or it's other locations, and I now have to explain to my toddler in an age-appropriate dialogue why we are not welcome in this store.

Bryan was absolutely amazing, very respectful, went out of his way. The epitome of a great person.

I went there September 7th with my son for shopping when we were in seaway mall. The sales person was extremely rude. And give us a feeling “you are not welcome here.” I don’t think I will go again. You need to train your employee and explain them who pays their pay cheque right ?

The girl that worked there today literally would not stop staring at my daughters. They were looking at stuffies on the bottom shelf before the cash register and she leaned over her counter and continued to just stare. It was extremely uncomfortable. I asked her they weren't allowed to touch the stuffed animals hoping she would get the point, but she didn't. My daughters are older, we're just browsing and doing nothing wrong, except talking alot about how cool some things were. We left buying nothing.

I would put a negative if there was an option!!! My husband purchased an item there Christmas eve, and without the seal broken and with original reciept, 3 days later they will not refund our money!!! NEVER shop here or gift from here as they will not offer refunds!!! It's not the type of store that has options to buy something else! Never seen a more PETTY was to make a penny!