Polite, honorific term used by staff to refer to a customer or visitor, especially in traditional shops, inns, or service establishments. Often used when addressing or announcing someone.
Casual polite term for 'customer'. 御用の方 is more formal and honorific.
Etymology
Phrase composed of 御用 (ごよう, 'business' or 'errand') + の (possessive particle) + 方 (かた, honorific 'person'), literally 'person of business'. Used to politely refer to a customer or visitor.
