A food-service business that only hires attractive young women for customer-facing jobs? Gasp! Who can imagine such a thing? But that’s what Boston-based chain Marylou’s Coffee has been accused of, and the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has taken notice. They’re conducting an investigation to see whether otherwise qualified uglies, oldies, and fatties are being passed over for jobs at Marylou’s.

The EEOC is interviewing management and going over applications on file. A company spokesperson insists that the chain’s employees, noted for being young, cute, and wearing a uniform of pink t-shirts and black shorts, aren’t chosen for their looks at all. They told
TV station WPRI:

We hire only the most qualified applicants…and those qualifications begin and end with a winning personality and a passion for customer service.

Well…you be the judge. Marylou’s posted some of their old commercials and other clips on their YouTube channel. These ads aren’t focused on emphasizing the deliciousness of their coffee. Here’s one from 2008:

Feds investigating local coffee chain [WPRI] (Thanks for the tip, Harper!)

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.