That has never been my experience with Apple's service. They've always treated me with respect, gone out of their way to help me (did a minor repair on a track pad on a 7-year old MBA for free), explained everything they were doing and gave me reasonably accurate time lines.
Before Apple Stores existed, I used to take my Macs to an Authorized Apple Service Provider. They were also wonderful. They did minor repairs for free, handled warranty work with Apple for me.
Of course, I spent twenty years in retail myself. I understand that it's important to treat retail employees with respect as dealing with the public is very hard. Customers are frequently rude, dismissive and condescending. I try to be pleasant, friendly and respectful. It is rare that I don't get good service with any retailer.