1. Saying "no problem" implies that the person for whom the service was performed was potentially bothersome.
2. Often the people who say "no problem" actually do seem bothered they had to do something for a customer.
3. People's attitudes are shaped by language and the popularity of the phrase "no problem" could transform the feeling of pleasure one derives from performing a service for others to relief that no problem resulted from the interaction.
Read More About "You're Welcome" vs. "No Problem"
When Did "You're Welcome" Become "No Problem?"
"The trend toward viewing customers as a problem versus income source seems prevalent these days. Haven't we all been to a coffee shop where the employees were so absorbed in conversation with each other they failed to notice the customer at the counter waiting to order her blended double decaf soy latte?
"Even fine retail department stores--the kind without shopping carts--have their share of salespeople who believe the customer is actually an interruption who steals valuable time away from more engaging activities, such as rehashing the latest Idol elimination with a colleague." Read more... from Associated Content
What ever happened to "You're welcome"?
"What's my problem with 'No problem'? Maybe it's my cranky suspicions that the phrase implies an imposition on the part of the person saying, 'Thank you.'
"No problem" translates as, 'What I did for you was not the sacrifice you so charmingly believe it to be. I hereby release you to get on with your day, blessedly free of guilt.'
"In other words, 'No problem' reverses the terms of the transaction. Rather than your doing a favor for an establishment by shopping there, suddenly the establishment is doing you a favor by having its employees help you, then reassuring you that it was no big deal, seeing as how you were already in the store and all." Read more... from Salon.
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