Trader Joe's Customer Service Issues

I visited the Toluca Lake store with my daughter, our regular shopping spot. While at the register, I noticed an employee named Michael bagging groceries. He was chatting with the cashier throughout the process, which seemed unprofessional. Their conversation was inappropriate, and he even rudely remarked about needing space while close to my daughter. Despite the busy store, I refrained from speaking up directly. However, I contacted the store manager, who was understanding and promised to address the situation. I am reaching out because I believe Michael's behavior was unacceptable. He displayed rudeness and neglected customer service by focusing more on the cashier. This was a first-time experience for me after years of shopping there, and I hope measures are taken to avoid this happening to others. Thank you.

I would like to address an important policy issue that I have been trying to discuss. I have attempted to reach the corporate office and experienced multiple phone transfers. It is crucial for me to personally convey a message to your administrative offices. I am the individual who initiated the food stamp program with your company in the Washington area. The program initially began in Seattle several years ago due to my concern as a regular customer that food stamps were not accepted. I believed it was essential for families relying on food stamps to have access to quality products at reasonable prices, which your store provided. I feel strongly about this issue, especially after reading an article, and I am eager to speak with someone at Trader Joe's headquarters.

During my visit to the Pleasanton store, I observed several individuals not wearing their face masks correctly or at all. When I raised this issue with a staff member who identified themselves as a manager, I was informed that some customers had cited medical reasons for not wearing masks, and Trader Joe’s staff are not permitted to request proof of these medical conditions. The lack of enforcement regarding mask-wearing for the sake of public safety and employee well-being concerns me greatly. I find it unacceptable that individuals can simply claim a medical exemption without verification. I have decided to refrain from shopping at this location until stricter safety measures are in place to protect customers and the community. It is imperative for the store management to address this issue promptly as it jeopardizes the health and safety of countless individuals.

Dear TJ's, I have been a loyal customer of your store for over a decade. I am concerned about the labeling of your lavash "flatbread." Lavash is a traditional Armenian bread, with a rich history spanning hundreds, if not thousands, of years. In [redacted], UNESCO formally recognized lavash as Armenian. I have noticed that your pita bread is labeled as "Middle Eastern" and naan bread as "Indian," but there is no mention of lavash being Armenian. I have previously contacted your company regarding this issue, but the labels have not been updated. I would appreciate it if you could consider recognizing lavash as Armenian on your packaging. Please let me know if there are any plans to update the labeling and how I can assist in this process. Thank you, Araik Sinanyan

I would like to express my support for keeping the ethnic names on Trader Joe's product labels. Embracing different cultural names reflects the diverse tapestry of the USA. The petition claiming that these names are racist misunderstands the true definition of racism. The variety of names on Trader Joe's products celebrates diversity and should be maintained. The Italian name, in particular, in tribute to the founder, adds an international touch without belittling any ethnicity. I have always enjoyed seeing this diversity and do not find it offensive. The small number of people petitioning for a change should not dictate altering the names. I believe that Trader Joe's should continue to be a positive example of honoring diversity. Best regards, B. B. [redacted] W. Duane Ave. Sunnyvale, CA [redacted]

While I've always appreciated the friendly and helpful staff at Trader Joe's, my recent experience at the Albuquerque, New Mexico store on Paseo del Norte left me concerned. A worker was coughing persistently behind me while stocking shelves. Although he wore a thin, loose-fitting face covering, it did not effectively cover his nose and mouth. This raised two important points: sick workers should not be on duty, and all employees should wear secure face masks to prevent the spread of droplets. Shopping at Trader Joe's is a regular part of my routine, but this incident has made me rethink. I urge the corporate office to enforce stricter guidelines for face coverings and implement better sick leave policies. It is crucial for the health and safety of both staff and customers. Thank you for addressing my concerns. -Carole E.

Hi, I wanted to express my support for Trader Jose's name. I came across the petition against you, and your response was admirable. I believe the extreme attacks against anything vaguely perceived as racist pose a threat to freedom of expression. Your stance is commendable, not giving in to the intense control and bullying tactics prevalent in the USA. The movement seems to be a form of mental disorder. Those backing such aggressive actions against basic liberties won't stop until everything is uniform, risking life itself. The idea of "Trader Jose" causing controversy is absurd. Thank you for defending this name; I too find it a lighthearted way to recognize a product's cultural background. Thank you.

Hello, I am a long-time customer of your store and due to the current situation with the coronavirus, I understand that certain changes have been necessary. However, I wanted to bring to your attention a few issues I encountered recently. I was disappointed to find that a favorite product, the round container of fruit medley, was discontinued even before the pandemic started. Additionally, during my recent visit to your Mountain View, CA store on 8/16/20, I experienced a long wait with around 20 people ahead of me. When I finally entered the store after about 40 minutes, I found many aisles empty due to a reported power problem. Despite this, I purchased items including your brand of lemonade, only to realize at home that the container seemed smaller than before. I still enjoy shopping at your store and just wanted to bring these observations to your attention.

Recently, I had a distressing encounter at Trader Joe's right before closing which deeply upset both myself and my family member. This incident, involving a manager, was unprecedented for me as a loyal customer of over 20 years. With a background in dentistry, I understand the importance of customer service in America. I am extremely disappointed with the treatment we received and the loss we incurred. If the manager's behavior is not addressed, I will have no choice but to consider legal action. I urge Trader Joe's to address this matter promptly to avoid further escalation. I am willing to discuss the details over a call if necessary or through email. Please reach out to me at your earliest convenience. My family and I are deeply affected by this experience and hope for a swift resolution.

About two weeks ago, my wife and I visited your Hoboken store in N.J. While waiting in line, I briefly stepped away, and when I returned, my wife was upset. Another customer yelled at her for letting them go ahead when I was away, and even your worker at the door instructed her to move to the back of the line. Despite explaining we were already there, no apology was given by the employee. I later spoke with a manager named Chris, and he promised to investigate and call me back, but I have not heard anything yet. Unfortunately, due to this experience, I am disappointed and no longer wish to patronize your store. I kindly request that a representative from your company reach out to me regarding this issue. Thank you. - L.B.

I recently contacted your store regarding a former employee, "Nelly," who had behaved inappropriately. On her last day, I noticed $[redacted] missing from the register, and it seems she was trying to poach my staff. When I spoke to a manager named Lauren, who claimed to have managerial experience at Trader Joe's, she was unprofessional, using disrespectful language and abruptly ending the call. Upon redialing, a male employee responded crudely and disrespectfully. My family, long-standing customers, are deeply disappointed by the lack of professionalism exhibited by your team. Unfortunately, due to this experience, we have decided not to shop at your store anymore.

I had a positive experience but have a few concerns about Trader Joe's. Firstly, I'm disappointed about the discontinuation of "Better n' Peanut Butter" which was a favorite of mine and my friends. It was a great product we all enjoyed and recommended to others. Secondly, I am puzzled as to why the Pumpkin Biscottis have such a short shelf life. It's only the beginning of October and they are already sold out. Pumpkin items are popular until Thanksgiving, and it's disheartening they are gone so soon. Lastly, the lack of Soy Creamer until possibly January is unexpected. Many of my friends and I regularly purchase it, and the sudden unavailability is inconvenient. I hope these issues can be resolved as Trader Joe's is unique and special to me. Thank you for listening. Sincerely, Leslie/Phan

To the person at Trader Joe's reading this, I recently got discharged from the hospital due to severe dehydration and kidney issues caused by Salmonella poisoning. I am certain it was from Trader Joe's Chicken Marsala with Mashed Potatoes as it was the only new item I had consumed. After eating it, I experienced intense vomiting and diarrhea. A friend advised me to report this incident and have the product tested as others may be affected. The bar code for the product in question is [redacted]8. I did a quick search and found previous issues with contaminated products from Trader Joe's, Kroger, and Walmart in the past. It is crucial to address this issue promptly to prevent anyone else from getting sick.

To the Trader Joe's team in Clifton, NJ, I had a disappointing experience today at your store that left me feeling humiliated. As a loyal customer and a fan of your Habanero hot sauces, I usually purchase them in bulk from various locations near my work and home. However, today I was informed by the manager that only 4 bottles per customer were allowed due to concerns about reselling on platforms like eBay. This new limit was not applied to any other products in the store. I have been a dedicated buyer of your habanero hot sauces for years and spend a significant amount on them, as evidenced by my credit card receipts. I do not resell them but consume them regularly with my meals. This sudden restriction felt unfair and discriminatory, especially during a time when bulk ordering is more challenging due to the pandemic. I urge you to reconsider this policy as it penalizes loyal customers like me who have genuine reasons for purchasing in larger quantities. Your understanding and a review of this restriction would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, M.J.

While my daughter and I were at the oil change shop across the street, I, having recently undergone heart surgery, needed to use the restroom. Unfortunately, they wouldn't allow me to exit my vehicle due to safety reasons. My daughter took me to the Trader Joe's store on Treat and Oak Grove. Despite explaining my situation to the staff member at the door about my urgent need, they insisted I wait in line. It was distressing. Eventually, a manager rudely directed me to use the restroom three stores down the street. By the time I rejoined my daughter in line, it was our turn to enter. I spoke to another manager, but my experience had been so upsetting I left my groceries and had to leave the store in tears. This incident has left me deeply disappointed in Trader Joe's, and I have decided not to shop there again. It was unsettling to see the unprofessional behavior of the employees vanish within minutes of the incident. Thank you for hearing me out.

Hello. I've been in Vermont since the summer, far from the nearest Trader Joe's in Burlington. I used to shop at locations in NY, NJ, and MA, and I have high expectations based on those experiences. Unfortunately, the items in Burlington seem to be subpar, affecting my well-being and budget. Some examples include spices missing shaker covers, flat Chaat, stale rosemary-raisin crackers, and a disappointing turkey apple sandwich. I had planned monthly trips with friends to stock up, but after my last visit around the equinox, I am hesitant to return. I would appreciate a gift card to make a final purchase before winter sets in. I typically spend a lot at Trader Joe's and promote their products enthusiastically. Although Aldi is closer, the quality is not comparable. Thank you for your attention, and I hope for a resolution soon.

I shared this helpful article about shopping at Trader Joe's on Nextdoor and received various responses from neighbors. Some appreciated the information, like Susan Parker and David Shumaker who found it useful. However, Spencer Edwards questioned my intentions, while Lori Kidd responded defensively. Susan Lamson expressed gratitude for sharing, and Tim Tierney mentioned some favorite items from Trader Joe's. It's interesting to see the varied reactions within the community.

I frequently spend over $[redacted] at your store every visit, and yesterday was no exception. I also always purchase wine, as you have a great selection at affordable prices. Despite usually opting for bottles in the $20-30 range, this time I bought a $15.99 bottle, which ended up being rung up twice at the register. I had to visit customer service, and the treatment I received from the man there was very disappointing. His rude manner was completely unacceptable. My transaction was at Clark :STATION3, although I don't see a name on the receipt. I am a loyal customer who doesn't mind the drive to your store, even though it's far from my home. I am a fan of TJ, but this encounter has left me upset. Just wanted to make you aware. This incident occurred at the metropolitan Charlotte location on Tuesday, 11/10.

For the past nine months, the CDC guidelines have emphasized the importance of not talking much and avoiding singing around others to prevent the spread of COVID-19. However, during my recent visit to Trader Joe's in Jenkintown, PA, I observed several employees disregarding these guidelines by talking loudly, laughing, and even singing while working. Despite bringing this up to the manager, Kevin, he seemed unaware of the situation and dismissed my concerns. Fortunately, another employee, Colin, acknowledged the issue and expressed agreement with my feelings. As someone with a lung condition in my 70s, it is crucial that rules are followed to ensure the safety of all customers and employees.

Yesterday, I purchased a fruit wash from Trader Joe’s which I have used for years. This morning, while trying to open the seal to wash an apple, I accidentally cut my finger on the sharp seal. I was unable to open it and felt concerned about its safety. I have contacted customer service and left a message detailing the incident, hoping for a prompt response. It's crucial to investigate this matter as it poses a danger to others. I am willing to provide photos of the sharp seal and my injured finger for further assistance.