Machetes for Sale at a Bargain: The Controversial Offering by Norma
Effortless machete Acquisition Prevalent in Berlin
At just 9.99 euros, Norma, a popular supermarket chain, is selling a 56-centimeter machete, complete with a curved blade and sharp barbs. The German Police Trade Union, unimpressed, labeled it "cynical" and an "unbeatable low" in terms of insensitivity.
For several days, customers have had the opportunity to buy this over-sized knife, suitable for use beyond the garden or campsite, in the store or online. The company boasts that these machetes are perfect for camping and leisurely outdoor activities. With more than 1450 stores across Europe, Norma is a formidable competitor in the retail scene.
When approached by a journalist from B.Z., a spokesperson for Norma clarified that these machetes are designed for camping and leisure purposes. They are not considered weapons and, therefore, can be purchased without age restrictions.
Nevertheless, it's claimed that they only sell the item with an age restriction of 16 years, presumably enforced at the checkout.
The Test: Can Anyone Buy a Machete at Norma?
To verify this age restriction, B.Z. reporter Jule Ahrendt (19) decided to test it out herself.
▶︎ Searching for the machete proved challenging. It was nowhere to be found among the gardening tools or the miscellaneous hardware. When she asked an employee if the machetes were still available, she was directed to the stockroom. There, two employees awaited her, offering her two types of outdoor knives - one 50 centimeters long, the other 56 centimeters.
She was even given advice on which knife to choose, eventually being recommended the longer one due to its curved blade, deemed more efficient.
▶︎ Age control - or not? Standing at the checkout, she placed her new garden machete next to a yogurt from the chiller. The line was long, and the cashiers appeared stressed. When it was her turn, she only received a casual "Good morning" and "Cash or card?" with a smile. She paid for her purchase with her card, leaving the store without being questioned or age-checked.
Conclusion: No Verification, No Questions Asked
The ease with which the machete was purchased raises concerns about the enforcement of the claimed age restriction. If you're intrigued by this unconventional gardening tool, you may want to contact Norma's customer service for more details regarding the age restriction policy.
[1] European retail chains, including Norma, have varying policies on age restrictions for the purchase of sharp objects.[4] It's crucial to verify the local laws and regulations before attempting to purchase sharp objects like machetes.
- Despite Norma's sale of 56-centimeter machetes being marketed as suitable for outdoor leisure activities, questions have arisen about the enforced age restriction of 16 years.
- In light of the ease with which a machete was purchased without age verification, it might be prudent for those interested in this unusual gardening tool to contact Norma's customer service for clarification regarding the age restriction policy and compatibility with local laws and regulations.
