Even if it weren’t for Obanomics...the “Mom and Pop” stores are being forced out. And have been for some time.
I truly miss the family owned busineses in my tiny town. But they just couldn’t compete with the big box retailers in the neighboring larger towns. Heck! Sonic is putting the DQ out of business.
I think in four years all we will see is Home Depot, Dollar General and chain grocery stores. It might not even take four years.
We have a GREAT Ace HW Store in town packed to the gills with everything you could need. Actually a far greater selection than the big box joints nearby. The owner personally thanks every shopper for their business and loves to chat about families. Most of his employees are really knowledgeable about their products, too. He runs a great business.