Trader Joe’s shoppers fume over ‘experience’ and say chain is ‘going downhill’

SOME frustrated shoppers have had enough of Trader Joe’s store operations.

They argued that two crucial aspects make for difficult grocery trips, at least at their local stores.

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Trader Joe’s operates over 600 stores nationwide, sprouting from humble beginnings in Pasadena, California, back in 1967, per Tasting Table.

It quickly grew over the decades, with California still having the most locations at over 200.

While Trader Joe’s has become known for signature food and drink offerings, special holiday items, and its self-checkout-less checkouts, one disgruntled customer said they’ve come to know it for having too many people and not enough space to hold them.

After complimenting the “variety” and “seasonal options” offered at Trader Joe’s, the customer claimed shopping at the retailer is mostly a “hellish experience” in a recent post on Reddit.

“It’s a very small space with a large amount of people that are rude and pushy and seem to have no knowledge of personal space,” they wrote.

“And I don’t know if it’s just in my town, but there are NO consistently quiet times to shop.”

“It’s almost always a frenzy,” the customer added.

They went on to note there are two Trader Joe’s locations in the large city where they reside, adding to the congestion issues.

NOT ALONE

“Does anyone else feel this way?” they asked.

Several echoed similar complaints, while others noted that they try to navigate the busy times to shop by going early or late.

“This is why the only time I can go is the second that they open in the mornings,” someone commented.

“I usually have luck if I have a list to get in there and out fairly quickly.”

Another argued Trader Joe’s was “going downhill” because of the crowded aspect and other operational criticisms.

“Agreed! Feels like Armageddon every time I go there,” a third noted.

HOLIDAY MUST-HAVES

While the shopping experience is being called out by some, others were thrilled to see seasonal Christmas items brought back earlier this month.

A few were elated to see the Trader Joe’s Hot Cocoa Polar Bear back on shelves for just $2.69 each, making for an ideal stocking stuffer.

The item features a white and milk chocolate outside with marshmallows and milk chocolate drops on the inside.

It melts in a hot cup of milk for a perfect hot chocolate concoction.

Not only is it popular, but the Trader Joe’s Hot Cocoa Polar Bear is only available for a limited time, so interested shoppers must act fast.

A Trader Joe’s super fan also recently offered fellow customers a crucial tip on its holiday bags.

Some popular holiday cookies are also temporarily available at Trader Joe’s locations this month.