Essential French Phrases for Customer Service: Shopping

Basic Shopping Phrases

Shopping in France involves specific cultural expectations and phrases. Here's what you need to know.

Entering the Store

1. "Bonjour Madame/Monsieur" (Hello Ma'am/Sir)

   • Essential greeting when entering any shop

2. "Je peux vous aider?" (Can I help you?)

   • Common question from shop assistants

Finding Items

1. "Où sont les cabines d'essayage?" (Where are the fitting rooms?)

   • Essential for clothing stores

2. "Avez-vous ce modèle en noir?" (Do you have this model in black?)

   • How to ask for specific variations

Size and Fit

1. "Quelle est votre taille?" (What's your size?)

   • Question you'll hear from sales staff

2. "C'est trop grand/petit" (It's too big/small)

   • How to indicate fit issues

Price Inquiries

1. "Quel est le prix de ceci?" (What is the price of this?)

   • Formal way to ask about cost

2. "C'est en solde?" (Is this on sale?)

   • Asking about discounts

Payment Process

1. "Je peux payer par carte?" (Can I pay by card?)

   • Asking about payment methods

2. "Vous avez la monnaie?" (Do you have change?)

   • When paying with large bills

Return Policies

1. "Je peux échanger ceci?" (Can I exchange this?)

   • How to ask about exchanges

2. "Quel est le délai de retour?" (What's the return period?)

   • Asking about return timeframes

Cultural Tips

• Always greet when entering
• Wait to be approached for help
• Say goodbye when leaving
• Keep receipts for returns

Common Staff Responses

1. "C'est au premier étage" (It's on the first floor)
2. "La caisse est par là" (The register is that way)
3. "Vous désirez un sac?" (Would you like a bag?)

French customer service values politeness and formality. Always start interactions with "Bonjour" and end with "Merci, au revoir."