Support Your Local Lfs

[ljr]

I like to go to the LFS for smaller items and livestock. If It is a big purchase and I can save money online, I buy it there. I have bought a few smaller things online lately, only because I have been working so much and I haven't had time to go out.

BUT,,,,,you can't beat the service from some LFS. Yea, plenty have guys that have no clue, but I have been to two that are extremely helpful. One of the stores, I will tell all the clerks I am all set until the guy I like is free and go to him.
I went to B's Store and he spent plenty of time chatting to me and helping me out with a few questions. He was more then helpful. You can't get that online. If I found something online cheaper, I would ask my LFS if they can match it and I am sure they would try if they could.

So, I agree with both schools, but if we buy everything online, we won't have the LFS to go to. I personally like going there to drool.

One thing that this discussion reminds me of is a discussion on big box stores and electronics... people always complained about the price in the high end stores and the service in the big box stores. So what happened is people would go to the high end store (Tweeter) and talk to the knowledgeable salesperson for hours and then head across town and buy it at the big box store (Best Buy)

The one rule I have is that if I discuss a product with a specialty store (LFS) and they can come within 15% or the big box store (Mail Order) I buy it at the LFS. If I do all my research online that 15% drops down to about 0-5% depending on my immediate need.

 

[Aquaman_68]

An educated consumer is the best customer.

Think of the word...consumer....What does it mean to you? My buddy was a CS rep for many years....He said I was a true consumer....(cause I consume everything I can from any service I deal with)....I have no problems with online vendors...(for the most part....The ones I have had issues with are done with me) LFS....I think IMO....we should support them....But we should also have an open mind when doing so....Loyalty...I'm all for it...(that is the area LFS may find is lacking...that is from many customers, due to the WWW)


Tough subject here to stay on the fence....I think LFS should have our support...(if you don't feel they deserve it....than do your business strickly online) For the few of us that value them we will still support them... (as long as they continue to get the things we want!!!) all joking aside...I'm being serious on the last statement...
That's my take don't hate me for it...

 

[steve214989]

Im in the Quincy area anat d my local fish store is not ever mentioned on this site. Think I found out why today. Went to buy a PC bulb and was quoted a price of $75!!!!! Knowing that I could get the bulb online for $29.99 or at another LFS closer to Boston for around 45-50 why would I ever support my specific most local to me LFS? I mean I completely understand that everyone needs to make a buck and has familys to support, but when you try and charge a regular customer experienced in the hobby that much? Thats when it goes from making a buck to greedily trying to gouge my eyes out while insulting me. Sorry for ranting, just my experience. And by the way, I have no problem paying the $45 for an item I need right then even if it could be cheaper online.

 

[Chuck Spyropulos]

I really don't think it is an either or. I buy from LFS AND online. The really good LFS always tempt me with Eye Candy (Hi Brenden)...and I can't resist so I buy. Then there are those nearby places that I visit to get supplies and fish.