We are always hearing and reading how Amazon is killing brick and mortar retail and I feel for small businesses and for those in retail who are having a hard time finding work. The thing is, anyone who is looking for something that isn't mainstream, or who doesn't have a lot of time, really doesn't have much choice in the matter.
I wanted a fitness barre so I could do exercises to stretch my knee and strengthen my quadriceps. In my youth, I took a lot of dance classes and can pull together a simple enough barre workout to restore some of my lost flexibility and lower body strength. Considering what was out there, I ignored the expensive Fluidity barre and it's "system," and bypassed regular portable ballet barres (ballerinas are half my weight). This Vita Vibe model was something I found on Amazon and certainly not anything I'd be able to find in a brick and mortar store.
We love Neutrogena Rainbath shower gel. You can find it easily enough in retail stores but never in a big size. The biggest I've seen is 32 oz. -- and lately I've not even been able to find that size. So, I saved a few bucks and ordered a three pack in a 40oz size on-line. This shipment will last for a year.
I've been searching some of the home shopping shows and websites and have come across luxury body washes -- but without having a chance to try them out, I am hesitant to spend $$$. We've also tried knock-off versions of Neutrogena and some are OK, but most are not.
There is no doubt that going to the store is losing its appeal to me. If you are the type of person who knows what you want, how much you are willing to spend, don't have tons of time -- and don't have the discipline to coupon and stockpile, then I think your best bet is on-line shopping. Plus, it's nice to get packages right at your door!
We're 10 miles from town which has limited shopping and 15-20 miles from serious shopping so I do most of mine online with no apologies.
ReplyDeleteThat makes a lot of sense! I do also take advantage of "ship to store" features so at least I can order on-line and then patronize a local store.
DeleteI'm an online shopping aficionado myself, and I have very mixed feelings about the whole "killing small businesses" thing. For several years I made part of my living selling used books through Amazon. The platform allowed me to run a small operation in a way that would never have been possible in the pre-digital age. I guess I just see it as another step in the evolution of our distribution system. I'm sure there are some kinds of businesses that are having a hard time competing, but there are others that are flourishing because they are able to access a marketing, distribution, and fulfilment system that would be totally beyond their capabilities otherwise. I know online shopping is not "issue free", but not having to spend an entire day driving all over town searching for just the right $2 part that I need for my bike? Priceless!
ReplyDeleteI do think that the Internet provides small businesses with opportunities that did not exist in the pre-digital world. And for specific needs, such as bike parts, I don't think you have a choice. Plus your supplier is probably a small business elsewhere.
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