The Costa doing business

Dave hears of a channel knight in shining getting involved in a coffee-based argument

This industry may have a reputation for being full of leering wide boys, but I was heartened to hear this week that at least one channel chap upholds outdated values like chivalry and gallantry.

One reseller boss recently found himself queuing in a cafe behind a young mother who ordered a cup of Joe and a babyccino (no, me neither).

The mum had made sure she had the exact change to hand - working under the assumption that the little one's beverage would be free, as it had been on previous visits. But she was told the store had now imposed a charge, meaning she had to fumble around in her purse while juggling shopping bags, hot drinks and a baby. She started to voice her frustration, but seemed increasingly prepared to accept her fate, when a voice came from behind her.

"Sit down, love, I'll have this argument."

Her channel champion stepped up to bat and told Larry Latte behind the counter exactly what he thought of the sheer brass-neckery of the price hike.

As far as I know, the woman never did have to cough up. In fact, knowing the exec's reputation for hard-nosed negotiation, she's probably been given a lifetime supply of coffee and pastries.