ST. PETERSBURG — Tubular Tokes owner Skylar Strickland has made quite a name for himself in this town. Known for his blunt and sometimes rude demeanor, Strickland has become infamous among locals for his unique approach to customer service. Despite his reputation, his shop has garnered attention and a loyal following over the years.
Opening his shop six years ago, Strickland quickly gained a reputation for his sharp edges and no-nonsense attitude. Customers have reported being told to hurry up, move out of the way, or even speak English while shopping at Tubular Tokes. Some have even been on the receiving end of colorful language and insults, leading to mixed reviews and opinions about the owner.
Despite the controversy surrounding his behavior, Strickland’s shop has become a popular spot for those looking for smoking accessories, snacks, and beverages. The eclectic decor, including neon signs and quirky decorations, adds to the unique experience of shopping at Tubular Tokes. Some customers have even found humor in Strickland’s sarcasm and sharp wit, appreciating his no-frills approach to customer interactions.
However, recent incidents have put Strickland in a harsher spotlight, with allegations of battery and confrontations with customers. These incidents have sparked a boycott effort and a trial date in the near future. Strickland’s actions have divided opinions among the community, with some calling for accountability and others defending his right to run his business as he sees fit.
Despite the negative attention, Strickland remains unapologetic about his behavior, citing his Asperger’s syndrome as a factor in his blunt communication style. He believes that customers appreciate his sense of urgency and directness, even if it comes across as rude or offensive to some. Business at Tubular Tokes continues to thrive, with plans to expand into the storefront next door.
However, the online reviews tell a different story, with many customers sharing negative experiences and encounters with Strickland. Reports of verbal abuse, discrimination, and physical altercations have tarnished the shop’s reputation and led to increased scrutiny of the owner’s behavior. Some former customers have expressed concern for the safety of others and called for a boycott of Tubular Tokes.
The most concerning incident involved a video that surfaced showing Strickland physically assaulting a woman behind his shop. The video sparked outrage and calls for justice, leading to criminal charges and a trial date for Strickland. The incident has further polarized opinions about the owner and his business, with some calling for accountability and others defending his actions as self-defense.
As the controversy surrounding Tubular Tokes continues to unfold, the future of the shop remains uncertain. Strickland’s reputation as a controversial figure in the community has raised questions about the limits of free speech and customer service in a business setting. Whether Tubular Tokes will weather the storm or face consequences for its owner’s actions remains to be seen.