The Wal-Mart model can't last indefinitely. Sooner or later the suppliers -- particularly the Chinese suppliers -- are going to move to sell directly to the consumer.
Want an MP3 player for $25.00? Come and get it.
I don't know. There are a lot of costs associated with direct-to-consumer sales that could dissuade them from doing things like that. Another major hurdle is that I think most consumers are willing to trade cost for convenience--I think most consumers are willing to pay an extra fee--5 or 10% or what have you--in order to do all of their shopping in one place. Who wants to sit on the Internet all day ordering 50 different items from 50 different websites and wait a week (or longer, from overseas) pay shipping costs associated with 50 different stores (because remember, I'm not buying in one place if I'm buying direct from the manufacturer) when I can drive down the street to Wal-Mart and buy all the stuff I need today and in an hour?
I'm not saying that it isn't possible, but I also think that it is by no means probable. There are a LOT of hurdles.
I agree!
Nothing lasts for ever anyway,but as long as it lasts I intend to make the best of it!