Debit Card fees

Tonight, I went through Donalsonville and stopped by Mr. Pipp's, a local convenient store. I was purchasing a Mt. Dew White Out and thought I would try the new Hershey's Drips.  I don't carry hardly any cash on me as I use my debit card excessively.  I proceeded to the counter and the lady said that it would be like $3.80 or so.

 I ask her how much the Hershey's Drips were.  She stated that they were $1.85. Now, I'm not sure if you have seen this little bag of candy, but it is smaller that a regular Hershey bar.  I told her that was ridiculous and to take it off. (No, I'm not implying her clothes, pervs...) I exchanged this for Chewy Spree. (I was confused; it's not chocolate, I know). The new total was around $3 or so. Not much difference but it's the point of paying too much for something. I didn't have but like $3.50 on me, so I grabbed my debit card. The lady told me that I had to spend over $5.00 to use my debit card there. At this point, I'm freaking pissed.  I asked her why would I have to buy more than I want just to use my card. She then informed me that I could use it but there would be a 40 cents charge for using it. I argued a little further and she said that she didn't know why they charged for using debit cards.

OK. I know these prices are for being convenient. I totally understand that. I am possibly going into this same business as a manager in the next month or so if all goes well. We are talking about a product that is $1 at Walmart marked up 85 cents. Holy shit! Back to the major issue.  I go to Tallahassee without cash all the time. I have gone several years in Bainbridge without cash on me. The only places I have ever ran into this issue is at a store on the way to Jack Wingate's and a store on the way to the lake on Spring Creek Road. I still think it is wrong, but they are in the middle of no where and just simply get to screw you.

Why is it OK to charge 40 cents for using a debit card in town?????  At probably the most profitable convenient store in town. Also the only store that stays open the entire night.  A debit card is exactly like having CASH in your wallet. I think it is highly manipulative & outrageous to deal with your customers this way. I personally will never set a foot in Mr. Pipp's anywhere due to this one incident.  I will NOT pay you 40 cents or spend more than I want just to use my hard earned money.  Don't conform to this, people! If you do, you're a moron.