Final answer:
If a customer has not returned to pick up merchandise they were interested in, it is appropriate to call them and remind them of their held items. Being persistent yet pleasant can help maintain a positive relationship and potentially lead to a receptive response from the customer.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a customer has put merchandise on hold and has not returned to the store within the expected timeframe, it is professional and considerate to follow up with them. In this case, reaching out directly can be an effective strategy to remind the customer about their held items and to express your store's interest in their satisfaction.
It's important to be persistent, not annoying, when you follow up. You can call them to ensure a more personal touch and to gauge their continued interest in the merchandise. It's also an opportunity to provide excellent customer service by understanding their needs and assisting them accordingly.
Always be pleasant in your approach and convey that you are there to help them with their needs, which shows that you value their business. By doing so, you may find that customers are indeed receptive to the follow-up and appreciate the reminder.