One Confusing Home Sonic Experience: Scam or Strategy

Since I started my practice as an accountant I have been very fortunate to have the time to visit the malls again as I move from one client to another. I love the free time to check out the sale and the new items in the malls and freely window shop just like everyone else. I get to dine and shop in the places I want to especially that most of these places or merchants do not have branches yet in Balibago and Santa Rosa, Laguna.

Yesterday, I was in Ortigas for BIR stuff and passed by Starmall in Shaw Boulevard. However, this time I was there since they have this terminal for vans to Balibago. I passed by the mall as well to find a restroom so I can attend to my personal needs before taking the long ride home. Just as I was reviewing my day and realizing I forgot to drop by BPI bank, I saw a this small BPI mall shop and was able to enroll two accounts for fund transfer. I left the shop feeling blessed and happy that BPI has these mall shops. I felt relieved. I was in a happy, content and satisfied mood having done all I had to do when suddenly this guy greeted me from the back. I was so surprised and my reaction was just so funny that I continued to laugh even after he introduced himself.

Well, I have been in Starmall Shaw Blvd. several times and I know that there are many marketing people here selling all kinds of stuff and just pretending to give out coupons, freebees and other items as a baiting strategy. Anyway, I told the guy/girl - Aristotle, that I was in a hurry and I can't seem to find the restroom. He continued asking for my time just to introduce their products. Finally, he said the comfort room is near their showroom. I told him I don't want to spend an hour with them (like Philippine Prudential guys in the same mall). He promised it was just for a few minutes just to help him with his "attendance" and since he was almost begging, I pitied him and gave in advising him that I cannot stay longer because I need to go to the restroom soon. He led me to their showroom and I entered HOME SONIC.