I run a small business and occasionally we need to source parts for our jobs from other businesses around the area.
This business in specific, we've been working with for 15+ years. We send them business as much as we can. I've even spent thousands on service for my own car with them. Always thought we were on good terms and had no issues.
I sourced a part here about 2 months ago that was $13 ($12 and something cents). While grabbing the part I forgot to bring my wallet. The GM (general manager) said no big deal, just pay us when you have time. Didn't seem like a big deal at the moment at all. This was the first time I've left without paying.
Fast forward to a few days ago.. (Trying my best to be objective about how the conversation went)
I needed another part. Went down there WITH my wallet to pay for the $13 part and the new part. The first thing I do is apologize it took so long for me to get down there.
GM : “I don't understand how you don't pay your bill. I don't do that to people. I don't order parts and don't pay for them. I don't want to sell you parts anymore. Do you even have money?! It's absolutely unbelievable how you do that.”
Me : “I'm really sorry about that GM, that's not how we like to run our business but we've been extremely busy, again I really apologize and would like to put a card on file with you guys so this doesn't happen again”
GM : “You can take your broken part and leave, we're not dealing with you anymore”
Me: “Again GM, I'm apologize and it wasn't ok of me. Can I at least pay the 13 dollars that I owe you?”
GM : “I don't have time to deal with you right now. Take your part and leave and we'll contact you”
I'm waiting for an apology at this point. I know I messed up and didn't pay him in time but never forgot about it. I get it, it's the principle of the matter, but again this is the first time that we've ever done this. We've been doing business for years together. Even on my own vehicle I've paid in full without hesitation.
I'm not even sure if he apologizes that I'm going to accept it. Demeaning me and asking if I “even have money” over 13 dollars when we've sent them 100 times that in just business alone seems like sacrificing my integrity as a person.
Or I really am the one really in the wrong and I need to accept that he's in the right and the bridge is burned? What y’all think?