I have noticed a big change in H&M lately, the staff are much more polite and helpful. I like their new rule about having to put the clothes you try on back on the hanger and actually return them to the staff. The result is changing rooms not strewn with discarded clothes and much happier staff because they aren't going to spend an hour tidying up after they close.
There is no excuse for rudeness, however, if I worked at Starbucks, where they are not allowed to accept tips according to one of the staff at Villagio, I wouldn't make a huge effort either. People should be made to feel valued, then they will take more pride.