Napping locals protest noisy roll calls

The practice of synchronized roll calls - often used in hair salons, restaurants and shops to attract customers - has come under fire by residents near the Chongwenmen shopping district.

Locals have been complaining for months that noisy roll calls at salons and clothing shops dotted along the 800-m long Xihuashi street are disrupting their noontime naps. Some salons are accused of turning up loud speakers while the staff chant slogans and do synchronized exercises. One newly opened salon holds three sessions a day.

Wang Lin, a resident who watched the staff at the Yongqi Hair & Face Improvement Shop finish their dancing near her home yesterday noon, said she found the practice was a little extreme.