Little Things Lubbock Loves: United Sackers!

Over the weekend, I was hanging out with some friends from San Antonio who came up to Lubbock for a visit. Somehow, the conversation drifted to supermarkets. I explained that we’ve got United Supermarkets and Market Street—and people here genuinely love them. Then I dropped the bombshell that blew their minds: they carry your groceries to your car for you!

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“Wait…They Do WHAT?!”

At first, they didn’t believe me. They thought I was pulling their leg until a few fellow Lubbockites standing nearby backed me up. The look on their faces was priceless.

“You mean to tell me someone actually walks with you to your car, loads up your groceries, and then takes the cart back inside for you?” they asked in disbelief.

“Yep,” I said. “They’ve been doing it since I was a kid. It’s just the way it works here.”

No Tips Required

Then came the next wave of shock. My friends immediately asked, “Okay, so do you tip them?” When I told them, “Actually, no,” their jaws nearly hit the floor.

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That’s right. It’s not a tipped service—it’s just part of the United/Market Street experience. Back in the day, baggers were mostly high school kids earning their first paycheck. These days, I see a mix—probably half teenagers and half retired guys keeping busy.

And honestly? They’re always super friendly, helpful, and quick. It feels like such a uniquely Lubbock thing that most outsiders just can’t wrap their heads around it.

Should We Tip Anyway?

Here’s the part I’m wrestling with: maybe I should be tipping them, if it’s allowed. They’re providing a service, they’re consistent about it, and it’s something that definitely makes our grocery shopping easier. If anyone deserves a little extra, it’s the baggers at United.

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So, let me throw it out there to you—do YOU tip the folks who walk your groceries out? Or is it one of those “unwritten rules” of Lubbock life that you just say “thank you” and move on?

Either way, it’s something that sets our hometown supermarkets apart—and it’s one more reason I’m proud to say I’m from the Hub City.