Final answer:
A sales associate's best response to a broken shoe depends on the context and store policy, potentially including a refund, replacement, repair, or apology with discount.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a customer comes in with a broken shoe, the best response for a sales associate could be context-dependent. Offering a refund or a replacement might be the optimal approach if the shoe is recently purchased and falls within the store's return policy period. On the other hand, if the shoe is not eligible for a refund or a replacement due to various factors such as wear and tear beyond warranty, then repairing the shoe could be suggested if the store provides such services. Finally, apologizing and offering a discount on a future purchase may be suitable when none of the other options are viable. Ultimately, the response should reflect the store's policies while prioritizing customer satisfaction.