HAGGLING OR HARASSMENT?

Haggling is an art-form in many parts of the world and what some may condsider to be outright rude and unacceptable behaviour others see as banter and a daily way of doing business in some cultures.

With the ever growing level of immigration into Britain we are seeing more and more people from cultures where 'hard' haggling is a part of life.

 This form of aggressive haggling can feel like bullying and it can make some people feel very uncomfortable or even threatened. In almost all cases this is just a clash of cultures and no real offence is intended. 

In my experience their are two types of 'hard' hagglers.

Both types start with insulting low offers. (Which can get your back-up straight away!) The first group can be hard work to deal with but are genuinely just haggling, looking to push you into giving them a bargain. If you stick with it they will try to move towards a price they are actually willing to pay or that you find acceptable.

The second group are the worst. They'll offer an insulting price and no matter what you do they'll keep badgering you with the same offer. They may even return to your stall time and again repeating the insulting offer. In my opinion this is not haggling, it's harrassment. This type of behaviour can really spoil a sellers day.

There is a fine but definate line between haggling and harrassment. If you ever feel that that this line has been crossed and are being made to feel uncomfortable or threatened at a car boot sale then call the organiser or marshal over.

 Please use the forum tell us about your experiences or advise on how you deal with hagglers and harrasment at car boot sales.