Pick n Pay Lambton – Where Paninis Start Drama

I usually avoid Pick n Pay like expired viennas, especially the Hazelpark one—either the food is halfway to compost, or the cashiers look at you like you're begging for a loan when you want cashback or try to withdraw from TymeBank.

So I decided to hit up Lambton—my safe zone. Usually no drama there. I walk in, things are smooth. Even got helped by a friendly guy (which is rarer than a fresh rotisserie chicken after 5pm). I was impressed… until the till turned into Judge Judy.

I had grabbed two bags of paninis from the bakery—already packed. Get to the till and suddenly I’m being told there are five rolls instead of four in the bag. The cashier looked at me like I had personally baked and snuck in the fifth roll.

I explained: "Ma’am, I took them exactly like that from the bakery." Instead of using common sense, she calls the supervisor—as if I’m a suspect on a bun-smuggling sting.

They basically insinuated I’m there pulling off a panini heist for R3.99. I was fuming. She eventually just cancelled the paninis like she was teaching me a lesson. Girl, I’m hosting a braai, not running a carbs cartel.

Dear Pick n Pay:

Why do your cashiers act like they co-own the franchise?

Why are they always grumpy like they’re being forced to work retail as a punishment?

And can we PLEASE get some more men at the tills? The ladies are always ready to fight, and I’m tired of dodging emotional uppercuts just to buy bread.

Just asking... not that you’ll ever respond. But hey, at least I didn’t ***** your paninis.