have been a customer of Advantage Pawn for about five years since living in Memphis, and this is not a review I ever expected to write.
First, I want to genuinely praise Ryan and several of the other staff members. Over the years, they have consistently been respectful, professional, and helpful. I used this pawn shop regularly for short-term loans and never had any issues when dealing with them. Ryan, in particular, treated me with dignity and courtesy every time I came in, and I truly appreciate that.
Unfortunately, my experience with the older gentleman who I believe is the owner (Hubert or Herbert) was the complete opposite and ultimately the reason I will no longer do business here.
On multiple occasions, his demeanor toward me was rude, condescending, and abrasive. He spoke down to me, intentionally used large and unnecessary words in a way that felt like an attempt to assert authority rather than communicate respectfully, and openly disrespected me in front of other customers. At one point, while handling my camera that I had pawned, he snapped the viewfinder in a rough and careless manner, which made me fear my property was being intentionally mistreated right in front of me.
The most upsetting incident—and the reason for this review—occurred after I underwent surgery and was medically disabled for three months. During that time, I was hospitalized and physically unable to come into the store. I received a text message stating that I could come in to make an arrangement on my pawned items. As soon as I was able, I went directly to the shop to discuss my options and see what could be done.
Instead of being met with understanding or even basic professionalism, the owner Horace or whatever his name was immediately began insulting me in front of a full store of customers. He loudly stated, “This is a busy season. Can’t you see that we are busy? This is a moot point.” His tone was hostile, condescending , dismissive, and humiliating. I was simply there because I was told to come in and discuss arrangements, not to cause a disruption.
He then asked me how much money I had. I explained that it was Christmas and I was trying to buy presents for my son. His response remained cold, abrasive, and completely lacking empathy. The entire interaction was deeply distasteful and unnecessary. It took everything in me to have restraint and not to revert healthwise. I’m a grown gray haired country boy despite my professional demeanor. And because of my job, I didn’t want to cause a scene, which was probably expected.
Disclaimer: I fully acknowledge that my pawn was behind, and I take responsibility for that. Even while sick and hospitalized, I made every effort to stay in communication and keep up as best I could. My issue is not with the policy—it is with how I was treated when I came in attempting to responsibly address the situation.
After five years of loyalty, I was shocked and offended by the way I was spoken to. Because of the owner’s behavior, I have chosen not to return, and I will not spend another dollar at an establishment where money ultimately supports someone who treats customers this way.
Again, I want to make it very clear: Ryan and the other staff members were wonderful, respectful, and professional. This review is not a reflection of them. It is solely about the owner’s conduct, which was rude, demeaning, and unacceptable.
I am disappointed that this is how my long-standing relationship with this business ended, but I believe customers deserve to know what kind of treatment they may receive. Lesson learned. Not to get in a situation like this again. Dave Ramsey here I come!
You have to do what you have to do. Everyone else is cool. Just steer clear of Herbie, or whoever he is.