23 Rude Things Ohioans Do at Kroger

Kroger is one of the most popular grocery chains in the country, especially in states like Ohio.

But just because Ohioans shop there often doesn’t mean they always remember their manners. Here are some of the rudest behaviors that make a Kroger run less pleasant for everyone around you.

Blocking the Aisles With a Cart

One of the most common complaints at Kroger is aisle blocking.

Shoppers often park their carts sideways or leave them unattended while browsing. This makes it hard for others to get through, especially during busy times.

It slows down the flow and causes awkward traffic jams near popular sections.

A simple fix is to keep your cart to one side and stay aware of others.

Leaving Cold Items in the Wrong Aisle

Sometimes people change their minds and ditch frozen or refrigerated items.

But instead of returning them to the right spot, they leave them on random shelves. This can spoil the product, especially items like ice cream or meat.

It also creates more work for employees, who have to find and toss damaged goods.

If you don’t want something, hand it to a worker or return it properly.

Talking Loudly on the Phone

Cell phone use in grocery stores isn’t unusual, but volume matters.

Some shoppers hold full conversations on speaker or shout into their phones. It can disrupt the shopping experience for others nearby.

This is especially noticeable in quieter areas like the pharmacy or produce section.

Keeping your voice low shows respect for others around you.

Sampling Without Buying

Kroger sometimes offers free samples, especially in larger locations.

But some shoppers help themselves to extras or open unsealed items. This is considered stealing, even if it seems minor.

It also creates messes and reduces product quality for others.

Only take items that are clearly marked for sampling, and follow posted rules.

Letting Kids Run Through the Store

Grocery stores aren’t playgrounds, but some parents let kids roam freely.

Running through aisles or climbing on displays can be dangerous. It’s not safe for the child or other shoppers.

Employees may have to stop what they’re doing to prevent accidents.

Keeping kids close and supervised helps everyone stay safe.

Arguing Over Expired Coupons

Kroger has a clear coupon policy, including expiration dates.

Still, some shoppers try to use old coupons and argue when they’re denied. This slows down the line and puts cashiers in an uncomfortable spot.

Even if it’s just a few cents, expired coupons are not valid.

Reading the fine print before checkout saves time and prevents tension.

Cutting in Self-Checkout Lines

Self-checkout lines are usually marked clearly with signs or floor decals.

But some shoppers ignore the line and walk straight to an open station. Others hover near the machines and jump ahead when someone leaves.

This causes confusion and annoys those who’ve been waiting patiently.

Lining up properly shows basic courtesy to fellow customers.

Opening Food Before Paying

Some people snack while they shop, planning to pay for it later.

But opening items before purchase is against store policy in many locations. It creates risk if the person forgets or refuses to pay.

It also sends the wrong message to other shoppers and kids.

The best option is to wait until you’ve checked out.

Leaving Trash in the Shopping Cart

Shoppers sometimes leave wrappers, wipes, or used receipts behind in carts.

This makes extra work for staff who have to clean them out. It’s also unpleasant for the next person who grabs that cart.

Most stores have trash cans near the exits for this reason.

It only takes a second to throw things away properly.

Being Rude to Employees Over Prices

Kroger uses regular promotions, digital deals, and loyalty pricing.

Occasionally, signs or shelf labels may be misread or unclear. Some shoppers react by yelling or accusing staff of false advertising.

Most price issues are easily fixed by asking politely.

Being calm and respectful helps solve problems faster.

Parking in Designated Pickup Spots Without Ordering

Kroger offers designated parking for grocery pickup customers.

These spots are meant for people who have placed online orders. But some shoppers use them as regular parking when the lot is full.

This blocks access for those waiting for their groceries.

Using the correct parking spaces helps the system run smoothly.

Not Returning Carts to the Corral

Leaving a cart loose in the parking lot may seem harmless.

But it can roll into cars or take up needed spaces. Employees have to collect stray carts, which slows down other duties.

Every Kroger lot has cart returns placed within easy reach.

Taking 20 seconds to return a cart is a simple courtesy.

Crowding the Bakery or Deli Counters

Kroger’s bakery and deli areas often get crowded, especially on weekends.

Some shoppers cut in, lean over the counter, or ignore the number system. Others take a long time to decide while people wait behind them.

This can frustrate staff and other customers alike.

Waiting your turn and being ready to order keeps things moving.

Ignoring “10 Items or Fewer” Limits

Express lanes are designed for quick trips with minimal items.

Still, some shoppers load up a full cart and use the lane anyway. This causes long waits for others who followed the rules.

Cashiers are put in a tough spot and often can’t say anything.

Choosing the right lane shows respect for everyone’s time.

Letting Food Go Bad in the Checkout Line

Sometimes shoppers abandon cold or frozen items while waiting to check out.

Instead of handing them to an employee, they leave them on nearby shelves. This puts perishable food at risk of spoilage.

It also leads to waste and more cleanup for workers.

If you change your mind, ask someone to return the item properly.

Letting Items Fall and Not Picking Them Up

It’s easy to knock something off a shelf while shopping.

But some people just walk away and leave it on the floor. This creates safety hazards and extra work for employees.

Even if the item is damaged, it’s better to let staff know.

Picking it up or reporting it shows respect for the space.

Taking Up Extra Room at the Checkout Belt

The checkout area can get crowded, especially during peak hours.

Some shoppers spread out their items across the entire belt. Others leave their cart too close, blocking space for the next person.

This slows the process and makes things uncomfortable for everyone.

Being mindful of space helps the line move faster.

Using Store Staff as Personal Shoppers

Kroger employees are there to help, but they aren’t private assistants.

Some customers ask them to walk the entire store, finding every item. Others interrupt constantly with questions that could be answered by signs.

While asking for help is fine, being demanding is not.

A little patience and independence go a long way.

Leaving Unwanted Items in Checkout Lanes

People often change their minds about last-minute items at the register.

Instead of putting them back, they leave cold or random products on nearby shelves. This clutters the area and leads to waste, especially with perishables.

Employees then have to track down where the item belongs.

It’s best to hand it directly to the cashier or bagger.

Taking Advantage of Free Services Without Buying

Some customers use Kroger services without making purchases.

Examples include standing in long lines for free samples or using restrooms repeatedly without shopping. This can be disruptive in busy stores, especially during peak hours.

Kroger welcomes the public, but the space is meant for active shoppers.

Using the store fairly helps maintain a good experience for everyone.

Letting Samples Spill or Create Messes

When free samples are available, messes can happen quickly.

Some shoppers drop crumbs or spill drinks without cleaning up. Others touch food with their hands or leave used napkins behind.

Employees have to stop their work to clean the area.

Being neat with samples keeps things sanitary for everyone.

Blocking the Exit While Checking Receipts

Kroger staff may check receipts near the door at some locations.

This helps prevent errors or theft, but some shoppers block the exit. They stop in the middle of the doorway to check their bags.

It causes traffic jams and makes it hard for others to leave.

Stepping aside helps keep things moving for everyone.

Using Express Lanes While Chatting on the Phone

Express checkout is meant to be quick and easy.

But some shoppers take phone calls while the cashier is ringing them up.