Quote Originally Posted by jasbus View Post
You don't offend me. I aplaud you...

The problem is, and will continue to be, 75% of the people out there go to the chain stores. They complain about the prices, but continue to shop Petco. There is nothing wrong with people shopping at chain stores, but, more people need to stand up/out like yourself. I started a pet store for the soul purpose of what you are talking about... Now, I'm wishing I hadn't.
It really is a tough market, and in this economy, it's next to impossible to compete with Petsmart or Petco. Forget the high prices, people shop for convenience.
And, it's just easier to go to Walmart and shop for everything under one roof. If I counted the number of customers who come in to my store for the hamster or the bird, but they just bought everything else at Walmart... Or, even had the nerve to ask me to put together a cage they just bought at Walmart... Even that $2 bottle of fish food, would help the local guy...
Standing down off the soapbox now.
You speak the truth...sadly. I go out of my way to visit stores I like and also go out of my way to avoid stores I don't. Locals should work together to build up this market and garner more support but I doubt it will happen. Until then we'll have failing store after failing store. Most of the reptile stores that are still open ended up selling high priced puppies or sugar gliders.

I don't know if your shop is still going but hell if it is I wish you luck.

@Valentine Pirate
DO IT! Seriously, it's amazing to have return customers and to know that they appreciate your store and what you do to keep it going. It's the best compliment you can give.