The UK has the worst customer service out of any country I've been to (generally), that's including third world countries. I've given up in my local co-op even saying "hello" "thank you" or anything due to the reponse I get from the staff serving. Miserable, no manners, no smile. The only inclination you get that there might be some lights on in there is when they ask if you want a bag. "Nah I'm going to stick this basket load in my pockets moron!"

Does wind me up sometimes Whose training these kids? When I were a lad I had a part-time till job in a small supermarket and it was drummed into me - smile, be polite. It's not science, so why can't they manage it

It's always an absolute pleasure to go to the Philippines and have staff call me sir, and do their best to help wherever possible.