Get it all the time in Ireland. I was in a furniture shop the other day wanting to buy 2, 2 seater sofas. The sales person went about it like it was more of a hassle to her to sell them to me. I left and took my business elsewhere.
I generally bypass as much as this as possible by buying online.
And yes, the US has incredible customer service because the customer is king over there. I'm of the opinion if you have a laugh with them over there, they're more helpful without going overboard trying to sell you the whole shop!