I think the discussion has gone from rude clerks to the charity industry. Yes, it is an industry. I volunteer for a dog rescue thrift store. All items are donated ( and some are a doozie) and all workers are volunteers. Anything that is un-sale-able goes to rag pickers who pay by the pound. All of the money raised goes to the dogs and their care. Last year we were able to rescue and find homes for 700 dogs. Thrift stores make a LOT of money!! But a RUDE CLERK should never be tolerated regardless of where you shop!!!!!!!