Ep 4. The Old Order Changes

In "Are You Being Served?" season 5 episode 4 titled "The Old Order Changes," the staff members of Grace Brothers Department Store are thrown into a frenzy as the store's new owner, Mr. Grace's daughter Miss Grace, arrives to implement changes and modernize the store's operations.

As the staff prepares for the arrival of their new boss, they each contemplate how their job may be affected by the change. Mrs. Slocombe worries about her job security and whether her cat Tiddles will be allowed in the store. Mr. Humphries wonders if his job title as "Ladies' and Gentlemen's Outfitter" will be altered, while Mr. Lucas worries about his future prospects in the store.

Miss Brahms is excited about the prospect of new fashion displays and a fresh start, but Mr. Grainger is resistant to any change, fearing that his position as head of the Men's and Boys' Department will be taken away. Meanwhile, Captain Peacock hopes to impress the new owner with his expertise in customer service.

As Miss Grace arrives, the staff members quickly realize that she is unlike her father in many ways. She is young, energetic, and open to new ideas, but also assertive and unafraid to make drastic changes to the store's operations. Her first order of business is to cancel Mr. Grainger's long-standing order for smoking jackets, which upsets him greatly.

Miss Grace's changes continue throughout the episode, causing chaos and confusion among the staff members. Mr. Humphries is shocked to find that his job title has been changed to "Personal and External Call Response" and is horrified when he is asked to wear a new, neon-colored uniform. Mrs. Slocombe is uneasy about the new automated grooming tables, which are meant to replace manual shampooing.

As the day goes on, tensions rise as the staff members struggle to adjust to the changes. Miss Brahms is upset when she learns that her fashion department will be closed down and merged with another. Mr. Lucas is disappointed with his new job title, "Economic Advisor," which he feels is beneath him. Meanwhile, Mr. Grainger is devastated to receive a letter announcing his retirement.

The chaos comes to a head when Miss Grace announces that the store will be open on Sundays, a move that draws the ire of the staff members. Captain Peacock tries to persuade Miss Grace to reconsider, but she remains firm in her decision.

In the end, the staff members must come to terms with the changes and adapt to their new roles in the store. While some are more successful than others, they all learn to work together to keep Grace Brothers running smoothly under the new management.

"The Old Order Changes" is a humorous and insightful episode that explores the challenges of adapting to change in the workplace. It highlights the importance of flexibility, teamwork, and a willingness to embrace new ideas in order to succeed in a constantly evolving business environment.