Hiee...
Well, i think whatever the shop you visit.....i think to make your experience better....it would be great to make an effort to find out the person that you wanna deal with. So far, from my experience, it makes a difference if you go to a shop and address the sales person by the persons name....
Some thing like...Harlow David.....how are you...? ......etc...
Like for my experiences, after taking the effort to know the peoples name, they seem to be more welcoming and responsive to your request for discounts where you need one......do bargain but dont bee too stiff
Try visit the shops once and a while if you happen to be nearby and drop by to say hello .....these little inter personal relationships may make your presensce felt and help them have you familiar in their mind.
So far, i have tried this method for Cathay Photo(a couple of sales person whom i will approach), Alan Photo(a couple of sales person whom i will approach), Alex Photo, P&G Adelphi, TCW, Ruby, Konota(Nelson).......
No Particular place that i go to actually. All have a fare share of visits that i asked questions on how to get some stuff done or tips from....
So far, with the frequent visits (even not buying) they will be happy to answer your questions.......of course not when there are soooooo many ppl at their peak period...
I have personally took leave for some occations when i think an off-peak visit would help to ask for discounts so that they can pay attention to your requests and also facial expressions....because they would wanna make some money for those low key days....
Well....i guess make friends with all, remember we are humans with names.....and you will be safe....
rgds,
sulhan