Every industry has their own language. The world of mystery shopping is no different in that respect. It can be confusing to both experienced and novice shoppers from time to time. As this field expands, more specialty terms are developed. Each issue of ShopTalk will explain some of the more commonly used lingo. View All Issues of ShopTalk.
This issue features “indirect” ways that shoppers often refer to companies that are mystery shopped. Can you guess which company each “clue” refers to, before seeing the answer?
ACL = A Closer Look. A well-known MSC.
BIG BLUE ELECTRONICS STORE = This clue is for the Best Buy client.
BIG BLUE HARDWARE STORE= This clue is for the Lowe’s client.
BLUE BANK = This clue is for the Chase client.
CASH BUSH= This clue is for the MoneyTree client.
CLOWN= This clue is for the Jack In The Box client.
CoRI = Corporate Research International. A well-known MSC.
DQ = Dairy Queen. A frequently shopped client.
ESA= Extended Stay America. A type of hotel designed for business travelers.
FROZEN ROCK DESSERT = This clue is for the Coldstone Creamery client.
GOLDEN ARCHES= This clue is for the McDonald’s client.
GREEN INVERTABRATE = This clue is for the MoneyTree client.
HANDFUL OF FELLAS= This clue is for the Five Guys client.
HEDGEHOG= This clue is for the Sonic client.
ORANGE HARDWARE STORE= This clue is for the Home Depot client.
PAD= Paid Authorized Distance. Extra pay provided by MSC for long distance assignments.
SEGA GAME= This clue is for the Sonic client.
SWEDISH FURNITURE STORE= This clue is for the Ikea client.
THE ULTIMATE SHOP FROM HELL= This is another clue for the Ikea client.
WI= Walk-In. The inside part of a fast food assignment.