Audio stores going out of business?

Well there are no high end dealers up in my neck of the woods, no one sells any of the components I use in more then 250 miles! The so-called high end shop won't even talk to me no more, because as stated above there all about money, and I won't buy there over priced crap, but do like a good deal on somethings I may use(and a good deal and retail do not go hand in hand). Hey check this out the local high end shop crosses off retail prices on all brochures that have retail pricing and increase it a little further! I nearly fell over when I saw that. The reason they are not being supported is they offer NO service, NO fair price and cry that you can get a better product and better service from some one else, I am not seeing the problem?? I run a business that is highly competetive, and if I was not able to be resonible(price) and offer good/great service I would be gone. The likes of Discount tire and the Tire Rack make life difficult sometimes but I don't go to tire web pages and complain about it, if that were the case I should find a new job, times change and so shall all retailers! The web forms an enormious segment of all retail markets now, its a fact of life, it isn't going away, I say if you can't beat 'em join 'em.

Brutusdial-Good point, I must say a very high percentage of my business is repeat customer's, and they rely on my expertice(scary thought! :) to guide them in the right direction. And me labeling all dealers as the scum of the Earth would be the same scrutiny I deal with every day, and have shed that myth quiet well-on a personal level at least with my customers. You have my appologize if you felt my coments were aimed directly at you, they where not. I in fact have a good relationship with a few dealers-none local :( they are some of my best friends, and I do take their opinions very seriously. I wonder if the idea of low-ball price will ever catch up with the mentality of the average consumer? The complain about a decrease in service, but when a great service is provided, they don't want to ainty up and pay a reasonable fee for that service. I guess I am saying if I could go back in time I would avoid getting into retail all together, though the experience I have can be gotten no where else, and that is priceless. The ability to be able to recognize a good business is similar to being an audiophile, gotta look for the subtle nuances and paterns.

Good day!
Tim