Pet shop Nurturing by Nature, in Christchurch, has taken to social media to raise awareness about a money scam which took place in their store last week.
The social media post called for small businesses around the area in Christchurch to beware of short-change scammers targeting stores.
It comes after the pet shop had a man come into the store trying to pay for a 99p item with a £20 note. At the till ‘he became aggressive’ towards a member of staff, shouting that he had been given the incorrect change.
The team member serving the man was left confused and handed the bank note back to him.
This meant he not only left with the bank note, but he also got back the change.
Emma Platt the director of the company said: “It was over in seconds but very upsetting”
Regarding raising awareness, Platt said: “We hadn’t heard of this type of scam before, and if it could happen to us, it could happen to other small local shops too.”
“It wasn’t about going cashless; it was about helping other small business recognise the signs.”
Local businesses and the local community have also been showing their support to the pet shop.
“We’ve had messages and visits from local businesses, even the window company over the road popped in to say we can call them if we ever need anything.”
“It’s moments like this, that remind you how kind people are and how strong our local community is.”
Platt has also given advice as to what small businesses can do if they find themselves in a similar situation.
She said: “Trust your instincts.”
“If something doesn’t feel right, pause the transaction and get another team member involved.”
“Report it to the police straightaway and share what’s happened so others know what to watch for.”
Platt also went on to add: “If sharing our experiences helps even one other business avoid going through the same thing, then something good has come out of it.”
As a result of this, the store has decided to take the decision to go cashless for the “foreseeable”.
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