How about this for a new way to build customer loyalty – not.  I was in Essex a month or so ago and needed to check my email, so I went into McDonald’s, next to Leisure World in Colchester, to use their excellent free wi-fi service. I got a coffee, then another one.  I have no idea how long I was there, I didn’t think it was important. Then I got into my car, which I had parked in their carpark, and drove off.

So imagine my shock when, yesterday, I got a bill from somone or something called MET Parking Services for fifty quid ($100) for staying too long! Yes, that’s right, there is a limit on how long you can stay there.  Silly me, I thought they might like my business. Turns out to be the most expensive cup (or cups) of coffee in history.

Apparently there are signs telling you this but I didn’t see them. Probably because I wasn’t looking for them. I didn’t get a ticket either. It’s all automated, of course. Talk about a fast buck. Next time I’ll use the drive-thru – at KFC.