These subject threads....

[Denyse]

they make me think back to when I was a little girl, and how my dad used to deal with OLDEN CAMERA. He really liked them... until the son took over the business.

Then he was really happy when they went out of business. Another case, of a company forgetting how they got big in the first place... the Customers.

( I am still using much of the equipment that my dad purchsed from them )

[Photo-John]

It pays to treat your customers well. At least, I hope it does.

[henryp]

Then he was really happy when they went out of business.

Olden is a mere shadow of its former self but they're still operating and still on Broadway in mid-Manhattan. It IS a shame how they've sunk to the bottom of the proverbial barrel though.

[another view]

Hey, look who's posting here!

We had a very good local shop and they seemed to take on a new and unappealing attitude when they moved to a more high-brow location. I haven't been in there in a couple of years (however I haven't bought much gear in a couple years) but gave them plenty of chances instead of convicting them for having a bad day. Let's just say they were consistent...

I remember buying a Nikon flash from them awhile back. I expected to pay a little more than B&H but not 30% more. I printed off the B&H page showing it was a USA model (sorry...) and the guy (manager) decided that arguing with me would be the best approach. FWIW, I've spent waaayyy more money at B&H and like I said, gave up on the local place. Great place, credit where credit is due.

Local stores close up from time to time, and I think too many blame it on internet retailers. Independent stores can't usually match the price but this isn't always the case. Plus, in most cases it would be great to have someone right down the street that you could talk to for good advice, and try a product out before you bought it. I have one good local store, but they're not Nikon dealers. I buy from them when I can and would hate to see them close up.