“Very cheap already. Don’t believe, you go and see other shops”  is a commonly used response by shopkeepers or sales assistants exasperated by bargain hunters trying to negotiate for a cheaper buy.

But the phrases are grammatically incorrect and may appear rude to some customers. Challenging a customer to go to another shop to check the price out may seem logical but it isn’t a friendly customer-oriented response.

Be Tactful

Instead it is better to just tell your customer tactfully that your prices are low and you cannot reduce them further. Then give them another reason to buy from you – perhaps you give good after sales service.

Try saying: “I’m afraid we cannot reduce the price any further.  I do believe our prices are competitive and you can count on our reliable after sales support."

Source: Edited from the Singapore Retailers Association's Speak Good English pamphlet.