The need for Walmart & Kmart stores

EddieWalker · Jul 17, 2005

I shop Napa for all my automotive needs. Best prices on filters for my tractors, and if they don't have it, they will get it. Much cheaper then the dealers.

They had everything in stock for my F650 Dump Truck, which the dealer and the heavy truck stores didn't have.

I usually deal with the owner of the store, as he works the counter and is there everyday. Young guy with a positive attitude.

I also like Super Walmart. I know what they have and I can get it and get out quickly and easily. We went there last night around midnight and bought a Mt. Bike for my girlfriends daughter who turns 8 tomorrow. For $99 we got a full suspension, aluminum frame bike with Shimano components. Add a Bell helmet for another $14 and we were out of there in record time.

Eddie

Cactus · Jul 17, 2005

Egon,
I can believe what you say about NAPA. I usually go to the Autozone which is closet to me and they generally have what I need for oil changes etc. and they are a handy store and I get good service,but they do carry some "trinket items"
But I can see where NAPA would probably cater more to the pro's,industrial needs...although a lot of people go to NAPA for there cars.We have 4 NAPA stores in my area if I cant get or order a part at Auto Zone or Advance Auto, NAPA is just about a sure bet of having it or getting the item I need. NAPA has a nice looking selection of tools as well. NAPA also does a lot of shop work on engines,brake rotors.

Moon · Jul 17, 2005

( Tell me what is so good about this brand of polish vs. the other brands out there in 2500 words or less. )

I've found it online for 17.95 but was told auto zone carried it. The manager of auto zone, said he thought Advanced Auto carried it.
I needed it now. I didn't want to wait three days, or pay the additional charge for overnight shipping, if I could pick it up locally. Otherwise as some have said, I would simply order it online.
I've never tried the product, but some who have used it said it was very good at removing stains from the transom (rear of the boat). It is less abrasive than some of the other alternatives. Simply looking to try the product. As it was, I ended up using a light oxidation remover, and it did the job this time. But after using the oxidation remover you have to polish the finish to protect it and bring out more shine. If the Long Haul product could serve double duty, clean and polish, it would save me a step.

I'm just not in these smaller stores enough to get to know the manager, or personnel. I enjoy supporting them, as I despise going to our closest walmart. We now have 4 walmarts within 40 minutes of my house. When the mom and pop stores or smaller chain stores don't take care of their customers, they make it easier for Walmart type stores to gain ground. I know they take care of their friends and regular customers, but new customers deserve good service. That's how you turn them into repeat customers.

Moon · Jul 17, 2005

( I generally find that a polite, "Come on, guys! Save me a trip to WalMart" does the trick. )

Good one Boondox!

I'll have to try that too.

penokee · Jul 17, 2005

I don't think you can stop Walmart, etc. by supporting Mom and Pop type stores. My Dad had a small Grocery Store in the late 1930's and until the end of WWII. The development of large Super Markets put him out of business - he couldn't compete. Same story with an uncle that had a Shell Gas Station and Cabins. The large Gas Station chains and introduction of Motels ended his business. Would we want to go back to those days and Small Businesses? Not me. I like the selection that is available in the large Grocery Chain Stores, etc. The introduction of Internet Shopping may end some of the current Retail outlets. Is this bad? Not from my perspective. Can purchase just about anything you want/need over the intermet and have it delivered to your house or business in a day or two. People that live in Rural Areas of the country as I do, have access to the world markets.
penokee /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

Junkman · Jul 18, 2005

We are getting dangerously into the politics of business. I would reply, but I am still getting over the last thrashing for what I said..... /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif