[QUOTE]Originally posted by mns2k

 

Do what I do. Shop at Pep Boys. If they don't have, I don't want it!

 

Ralper:

Lots of good points. We have a Wally World near us but, it seems that there is enough traffic to support a Super Target and still be a draw for all the stores that are in the shopping center. I do understand that Wal Mart is the 600 pound gorilla but being a logistics (Distribution) person they have made great inroads in cutting costs and improving selection. With out their push in the 70's we would not have bar codes on all our product and now is another interesting push with RFID. I think the crack are showing in Bentonville as there have been several articles on illegal hiring, unpaid overtime, discrimination, etc. This would not have happened if Sam were still around.
As far as competition they have to find a niche. There is always room for the small player if they fill a need. Hence the independent drug store is making a come back because they provide services that the chains do not. Ace Hardware, although a small chain, is alive and well. They know that they cannot go head on with HD or Lowes but they provide a high level of service which people want and are willing to pay.
I also agree with you on the retail market place that the leaders become complacent and fail to change. They need to reinvent themselves. Hence the "Softer side of Sears" and Pennys going to a more up scale market.

Should be interesting to see howe folks in Bentonville keep growing.

 

S2Marc -

Excellent post. I'm disgusted that our government is trying to shut down Canadian pharmacies selling to US citizens. It's just such a blatant money grab.

Officials (IIRC from the FDA) have made some noise about "safety" issues and the Canadian pharmacies but haven't been able to name any instances where people have been harmed.

As for Walmart? I avoid it when at all possible. And heaven help you if you are a vendor for WallyWorld. Talk about your double-edged sword.