I have already got a slightly uneasy relationship with my local Oxfam charity shop.  A relationship, which has not been helped by a new annoyance.  Now, whenever I am paying for any goods in Oxfam, I am asked: “Can I round that up for you?”

The first time I was asked, I was caught unawares; not really understanding what the cashier meant.  She explained: “Well, take the book you are buying priced at £4.99.  I wondered whether you would like to round it up to £5.00.”

Despite the explanation, I was still not sure I had grasped the idea.  Was it to save the cashier’s hands from having to type in a long number on the till?  I would have been quite prepared to sacrifice a penny if it added to her instant comfort in some way.  I wouldn’t want her to suffer from some kind of RSI for the sake of my purchase.

Still in something of a confusion, I replied: “Well, yes, I suppose so.”  I paid £5.00 and left with my book.

Later, though, I reflected on this encounter.  I wasn’t convinced the cashier had RSI or any other form of work-related disorder.  I felt more that some kind of corporate pricing strategy was in operation.  In fact, all I felt was that I had been diddled out of a penny.

The next time I visited the Oxfam shop, my purchases came to £6.83.  Once again, I was asked: “Would you like me to round that up for you?”

This time, however, I was better prepared with my response.  Round up to what?  £6.90?  £7.00?  £10.00?  How many decimals points are we working to?  Why always round up and not round down?  I would be much more likely to agree to the suggestion if I was asked: “Can I round that down for you?”  I would much prefer to pay £6.80.  Or £6.00.  Rather than £6.83.

If Oxfam is persistent in adopting this policy, I would prefer it priced its items in round figures to start with, rather than have to engage in some process of awkward negotiation at the till.  I’d imagine the cashiers would be equally relieved.

Now, I am as charitable as the next man––ie. not very charitable (Ed.)––but I like my charity to be a voluntary act, not something I have felt socio-coerced or -pressurised or -bullied into.

© Simon Turner-Tree

Simon Turner-Tree isn’t feeling very charitable.