[sarasmom]

The types of merchandise sold at consumer computer/electronics stores has dropped well over 50% in price over a two year period.
Nature of the product.
It is obsolete by the time it hits the store shelf.
How much did a DVD player cost two years ago? ($250-S400)
Now, it is $49.95.
These peple might have made a better career choice if they wanted retail sales, to stick to clothes or furniture.
Retail is always cutthroat.
Actually, this kind of makes me smile, because the preponderance of consumer electronics stores and their encroachment into the business marketplace,has severely cut margins in my company.
We re-tooled, retrained and adapted.I didnt hear of any tears for us,Professional AV dealers,during the process!

[Hodar]

I didnt hear of any tears for us,Professional AV dealers,during the process!

Ain't that the truth!! It used to be that the "high end" was reserved to stores that had trained and certified salesmen. These people KNEW their equipment, their competitor's equipment and almost everything that could be done to a room for the ultimate media experience. Now, you can find most of the 'good stuff' online at prices that make these stores totally uncompetitive.

So, now the consumer has a choice, either save some major bucks and teach yourself, or pay more $$ and get it from a "high-end" store. Or, go to the store and learn what you can, then buy it over the internet.