My wife is a fairly regular user of the Aldi store in Oswestry. She was aware of the perfectly reasonable 2-hour parking limit but unaware of the camera controlled monitoring system (it is adequately signed). Due to a combination of unforeseen circumstances, combined with a preference not to drive the short distance to another nearby supermarket to complete her shopping, she overstayed by 14 minutes. A penalty letter duly arrived by the park administrator. My wife was prepared to pay it.

I telephoned the store and was directed to the regional office of Aldi (Neston, Wirral). Having explained the circumstances, I was informed that the area manager would contact us “within 72 hours.” With about one hour to go, we were telephoned by said manager who was able to quickly locate my wife's visit / purchase details (approx £60). We had retained our invoice. The amicable conversation resulted in the manager advising us that the charge would be cancelled and that, should we receive any further communication from the park administrator (we didn't), to ignore it. Good PR that recognised an entirely 'genuine' lapse.