[jrhepfer]

Boycotting Wal-Mart DOES work, but not in a "boycot" sense. I go to my local hardware stores and drug stores instead of Lowe's and WalMart. I pay a little more for my supplies there but I know I'm supporting my local economy. The people in the little stores know my name. I can find what I need quickly and easily. This is opposed to fighting my way through WalMart, dodging clumps of conversationalists clogging the isles, searching forever for what I need, and rarely finding anyone who can help me with anything.

I can save 20 minutes going to my local stores, but I pay $1.50 more... it's worth it for my time and superior service.

[m1911]

We have a great hardware store in town, and a Wal-Mart Super Store. I still go to the mom-n-pop shop, but only for certain items. They both carry Ames yard tools, but the mom-n-pop charges nearly twice as much for exactly the same item. So the tools get bought at WM, and seeds etc. get bought at the local store. It's a balance.

[CSM]

I agree, I always check with local businesses for any item that I am looking for. If the premium cost is low enough I won't try to negotiate. However, they all know that if I am there to buy an item I am prepared and knowledgeable of the cost, therefore if it is grossly overpriced I will try to bargain down. I usually don't try to get it at the level of the chains, but I won't be grossly overcharged!

I look at it the same way for services, lawn service, plumbing repairs, tree trimming, etc. Always try to use a local guy rather than a chain like sears.