I have been a long time customer and I like to shop local. I arrived early prior to them opening so I had breakfast next door at the diner and waited until they opened so that I could shop at a locally owned establishment. Upon entering the store the person at the door asked me to leave my sling backpack at the counter and stated it was "store policy". I know they were apparently only following instructions. I get it... Unfortunately, I ride a motorcycle and my backpack contains my cell phone, wallet, and many other personal items that I would rather not leave with some stranger at the counter.
The other thing that really bothers the most is this: If you are going to ask one person (male) to leave their tiny little sling backpack at the counter then wouldn't you ask the same of everyone? I mean if in fact this is a "store policy" again as stated by the store employee. There were (female) customers with purses, bags, etc... much bigger than the one I was sporting who apparently were not asked to leave their belongings at the counter prior to entering the store. I just felt somewhat discriminatory to me. As a result the local Home Depot got my business and I guess they will continue to get my business moving forward.
Again unfortunately I wont be able to shop at this store anymore since I am trying to reduce my lifestyle. My sole means of transportation is my motorcycle or public transportation. As a result I carry a bag and I am not leaving it with anyone especially when the rule doesn't apply to everyone.