"Fixed Price" is a powerful psychological label. It tells us "Don't even ask." But is it legally binding? No. It's just a policy. I went to a high-end shoe store in a mall and attempted to bargain like I was at a flea market.
> ATTEMPT 1: THE SALESMAN (LEVEL 1)
Salesman: (Laughs) "Sir, this is a showroom. The price is on the tag."
Me: "I know. But ₹5,000 is a lot. Ask your manager."
Salesman: "No sir. Computer won't allow it."
The "Computer" excuse. The ultimate wall. "The system won't let me." Most people stop here. I persisted.
> ATTEMPT 2: THE MANAGER (BOSS FIGHT)
I asked to see the manager. I picked up a second pair of socks. "What if I buy the shoes AND the socks? Can you give me a discount?" Bundle pricing logic.
Me: "Are there any student discounts? Bank offers? Damaged box discount?"
(I pointed at a tiny scratch on the box).
Manager: (Sighs) "I can simulate an employee discount code... gives 10% off."
> THE RESULT
He applied the 10% discount manually.
Original Price: ₹5,000.
Paid Price: ₹4,500.
SAVED ₹500
> THE PSYCHOLOGY
Why did he do it? 1. To get rid of me. I was holding up the line. 2. Power. He wanted to show he could override the "Computer." 3. The Sale. A discounted sale is better than no sale.
> CONCLUSION
"Fixed Price" is a lie. Everything is negotiable if you are willing to be socially awkward enough. Is it worth the embarrassment for ₹500? Use your judgment. But knowing that the wall is breakable changes how you see the world.