Title: Disappointing Experience Despite High Expectations As a Google Local Guide and frequent traveler, I always enjoy exploring regional grocery stores and sharing my experiences with the community. On a recent trip from Texas to Seattle, I researched the best grocery options in the area and Fred Meyer consistently came up as a top recommendation. With that in mind, I made a special effort to visit the Fred Meyer location on June 6, 2025, around 5:00 PM, eager to explore their offerings and write a helpful review for others. Upon arrival, I was initially impressed by the store's size and variety, particularly in the produce section, which appeared fresh and well-stocked. As part of my normal reviewing process, I began taking a few discreet photos of the produce displays to accompany my review. However, my experience quickly took a turn for the worse. While photographing, a white male security guard approached me and instructed me--rather curtly--to stop taking photos, stating that photography is not allowed inside the store. His tone was unnecessarily stern, and his facial expression felt dismissive and unwelcoming. The encounter was both surprising and disheartening, especially since my intent was simply to provide a fair and informative review for other customers. After leaving the store, I reviewed Fred Meyer's terms and general policy and found no clear indication that personal photography for review purposes is prohibited--especially when done respectfully and without disrupting other customers or staff. As a consumer and content contributor, I felt disappointed and, frankly, disrespected by the interaction. I can't help but wonder if my appearance played a role in the guard's behavior. As an Asian visitor, it's hard not to question whether bias--conscious or not--may have influenced the way I was treated. I sincerely hope that was not the case, but the experience left me feeling unwelcome and excluded. Regrettably, the interaction ruined what could have been a pleasant shopping visit. I chose not to make any purchases and instead left the store feeling frustrated and deeply disappointed. I had genuinely looked forward to highlighting Fred Meyer's variety and value to others traveling through the Seattle area, but I cannot in good conscience recommend this location based on how I was treated. While I acknowledge that Fred Meyer likely has quality products and a loyal customer base, customer experience is just as important as product selection. I hope store management takes feedback like this seriously and reviews staff conduct to ensure that all guests--regardless of background--feel respected and welcome. For that reason, I am leaving a one-star review. I believe in honest feedback and hope this helps improve the experience for future customers. read more