Re: New Shimano discount parts


Qui si parla Campagnolo wrote:

<snipped>

-fallout from the discussion of Shimano's restrictive trade policies-

Is 'Ozark bicycle' a bike shop?

I run a one-man service, maintainence and repair shop. I'm not a
retailer. I only stock repair/service parts (bearings, axles, spokes,
cable, chains, etc.). I do make small buys of components when a really
hot price comes along. Other than that, I welcome folks to bring their
own stuff for installation, or I will order what is needed and supply
it at a cost+shipping+10% price structure.

Then get back to me when you are doing something other than out of your
garage for 'fun'.

Is that what I'm doing, Peter? Or is my business based on a different
model than yours? My model is akin to an "Automotive General Repair"
business, while the traditional LBS is more akin to a car dealership.
No, I don't have an expensive location with a customer waiting area.
But I don't have a big overhead, either. Nor do I carry a big inventory
from month to month.. These things help to keep my prices low, which
benefits the customer.

IMO, the bike biz scene is in for some big changes. I think more and
more people will source their goods, including complete bikes, from the
internet. The typical LBS (and let's note right now I *am not*
including your shop here) with lame-to-"so-so" service and high prices
is going to go the way of the dinosaur. The survivors will be the big,
perhaps multi-location, shops devoted mostly to one or two of the big,
highly promoted brands not available on the internet and the small
shops that offer exceptional knowledge and service.

If your business model needs price fixing schemes to be successful,
maybe you should re-examine it. For example, do you really need a
retail storefront in DT Boulder? Or will people seek you out even if
you're in a less prime, less expensive location? (FWIW, I think they
would)

And please, don't take offense at any of this; I really do admire the
way you seem to do things.

.

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