Post by Deleted on May 13, 2015 3:33:59 GMT
You may have read the thread by Trellis about trying to buy local. It's really hard to do anymore.I try but "come on"!
I picked up a used chipper last fall. Luckily I came with extra belts.being this is my first experience with one I went thru a couple belts just learning the limitations of the machine.I needed to have a spare on hand so I called Napa,the closest auto parts store,12 miles away. They priced the belt at $16&change and said I could pick it up tomorrow evening after it comes in.
I thought this was a bit high so I got on amazon. Sure 'nuff! I ordered 2 belts for $6 and change each + shipping. To my door,one day later $17.79. Sure beats Napa's$16 & change,plus the long distance phone call,plus sales tax ,plus 1 1/2 gallons of gas,plus extra time and wear on my vehicle!
How then can you possibly buy local anymore. If i can get the belt for $6 + I know Napa can. If I can get it shipped for $4 and change I know napa can. So they will have maybe $10 in the belt by the time it gets to me and are making an extra $7 for the sale.
I can't see how local shops will ever compete for your money without be specialized. The world is poised to go completely to big box stores or internet sales for general merchandise and locals are on their way out.
Wade
I am certain they will not be hurt much at all by the new Tractor Supply here.
Baling twine is just such a simple item but if the local store can sell it to me for $47 I will never buy it from Tractor Supply for over $70.
The family that runs the store started as a farm producing bagged feed that is still sold in other feed stores but you can buy it for less right from them. They offer a nice hardware section and LPG gas refills cost less than they do in town. I would guess they are 1 1/4 miles from me here so travel is even less.