[Aquinasfan]

Once again, bean counters making decisions that are contrary to good business practices.

Yup. See it often at work. Apple seems to be the only company that escapes this trap.

[muawiyah]

Apple has already completely destroyed itself. Back when computer parts/technology first became amenable to mail order sales, Apple opted out of that opportunity by canceling all of its dealers who sold anything by mail.

The consequence was the total destruction of their dealership network and the loss of all of their knowledgeable people in the sales force.

They've subsequently accepted bribes/donations from Microsoft and others just to keep the Apple logo on the market.

Circuit City would have been well advised to see what happened to Apple shortly after their remarkably stupid mail order decision.