CT
crystal torney
Jul 20, 2026
I had a very disappointing experience at the Kroger Pharmacy located on Peachtree Road in Brookhaven this past Thursday.
I arrived after work to pick up my prescriptions using the walk-up window. I was still wearing my work uniform when the first pharmacy employee came to the window. She picked up the phone, stared at me for several moments without greeting me, and then asked, “Do you need something?” I responded by saying hello and explaining that I was there to pick up my prescriptions. Her reply was, “Oh, I thought you were here for a package.” I found that comment both unprofessional and inappropriate. As someone who works in a professional role, if I were making or receiving a delivery, I would have gone inside the store—not used the pharmacy pickup window.
Another employee then assisted me with my prescription pickup. After verifying my information, he opened the pickup window so I could pay. My phone battery had died, so I was using my physical debit card instead of mobile payment. I first attempted to tap my card, but when that didn’t work, I inserted it into the card reader. While I was in the middle of completing my transaction, the employee abruptly slid the pickup window shut, removed my card from the payment terminal, and began pressing buttons on both the card reader and the computer. I immediately knocked on the glass to get his attention, but he completely ignored me.
A few moments later, he reopened the window and handed me my card, my prescriptions, and the receipt. When I asked what he had done, he told me I was “supposed to tap” and spoke to me as though I didn’t understand how to use the payment terminal. He then stated that he intervened because he didn’t want me “to take long.” That explanation was unacceptable. No employee should interrupt or take control of a customer’s payment transaction without permission, especially while the customer’s card is inserted into the payment terminal. Beyond being disrespectful, it raises serious concerns about proper payment handling and customer trust.
After leaving, I charged my phone and called the pharmacy to report the incident and request contact information for upper management. I spoke with an assistant manager named Susan, who listened to my concerns, apologized, and assured me that the pharmacy manager, Ryan, would contact me the following day. Unfortunately, today is Monday evening, and I have yet to receive the promised call.
This entire experience reflected a lack of professionalism, respect, and accountability. I understand that pharmacies can be busy, but that does not excuse dismissive customer service, inappropriate handling of a customer’s payment transaction, or failing to follow through on a commitment to address a serious concern. I sincerely hope Kroger management investigates this incident and takes steps to improve both customer service and staff training at this location.