Are associates allowed to put merchandise on hold?

The correct answer highlights the policy that associates must purchase merchandise immediately rather than putting it on hold. This approach helps to ensure a streamlined shopping experience for customers and prevents any potential issues related to inventory management or favoritism in selecting items. Allowing associates to reserve merchandise could lead to discrepancies or confusion about availability, as other customers might be interested in those items as well. By enforcing a strict policy where associates cannot place items on hold, the store maintains fairness and transparency in the purchasing process for all customers. This policy is crucial in a fast-paced retail environment where product availability can fluctuate.