And look at Filson, last of the heavy wool and waxed cloth. Last Filson display I saw I wept (inside) at the light hip flannel crapola. And the day the Duffel Bag closed in Tacoma was a heartbreaker. When price became the only thing, those places were doomed.
I have had the same Tin Coat for Years and Years. It just looks better with age (unlike me.) The same canvas and leather duffel I use instead of a suitcase. My leather work boots get rebuilt. We all know the value of a good brass stove! The difficulty with selling good gear is that once your customer base has it, it lasts for a very long time. If your business model relies on quick growth, you need to create a need to buy more, more often. So more seasonal clothing, new fashions, gadgets and toys. Commercial property is crazy expensive. I’d hate to have to pay for a large retail space every month, these days. I would prefer a company that only cares about their field, where the few “ in the know “ go. They are lifetime customers as long as you keep your standards as to what ‘s expected, but that doesn’t make your stock prices skyrocket. To many MBAs looking to make their mark in whatever field. And to many companies wanting that. I have to go shout at some squirrels in my yard now.
I’ve had a love/hate relationship with REI for decades. The days when it was a real climbing store are long gone. There have been times it was an outdoorsy fashion clothing store. That said, the last couple times I’ve been at a physical store (Rancho Cucamonga), they were pretty darn good. I was picking out a backpacking tent for my daughter and SIL. In response to my questions, they set up two tents in the middle of the store and let me poke around in them. Months later, looking at baby carriers for the same daughter (who’s about to give me a grandson), first sales rep knew nothing and apparently didn’t care to find out, but another happened by who was really knowledgeable and helpful. In both cases (tent and baby carrier) the help I received allowed me to make a much better informed purchase decision. ….Arch
REI here was the place for Nordic ski gear of all kinds, and XC rentals, and knowledge re same. Then one year, all gone. Sad.
REI has rentals again. I recently saw that. And I did get some expert advice about Exped pads recently. Maybe the culture within has been changing back. I see the words "Co-Op" displayed on walls. I quit going/buying when they took a stand against 2A. Not selling items from companies associated with firearms. They apparently have backed up a bit on that. I have bought a few items recently. If I really cared I would research the recent board member changes. I do not, not enough at least.
One thing about economics has always struck me as true. When a company goes "public" the driving force becomes "growth". Stock value rising. An owner does not need that rise to maintain an income. And, the shareholders telling the previous owner how to run his business is, I believe, tearing the companies down. There are a few companies that are not publicly traded, like Patagonia. Another factor is the apparent "need" of workers wanting the same income as management, without doing the effort to earn it. I saw a lot of that in my manufacturing experience.
@snwcmpr Have you red "Das Kapital"? Nowadays everybody wants to have their share... Under History lights, you can appreciate the SCAM! But does the "Zombies" do it? Just take a look at the "new generations" leaders, more with less effort because "you deserve it by Right". In my days you had to struggle to earn something. Nowadays, since the day they've born they have the Rights doing nothing to earn them... Old Chinese Knowledge says: One generation makes fortune, the next one waste it. Is more easy and efficient the venom than the education Be safe Enrique
@snwcmpr Sorry if I sound too political sided, but I've seen too much and I cannot stand the softness of today's speech. May be I better get my hands on my last "one-eleven" to fettle and stay away from the keyboard... Enrique
Interesting. You speak of REI as a location for directions when I was younger and living in the Seattle area it was the Pike Street Market and downtown it was Fredrik and Nelson and Woolworths and the JCPenneys store. During Seafair days I'd go to the parade with my parents and brothers, then if I got bored I'd wander down to the Market. More than once the police have brought me back to them thinking I was lost. I can't say I could find the parade or the Market today if turned loose. Went looking for the Rainer Brewing company and cried cuz it was gone. Another local landmark.
You all mean the Pike Place Market right? Where they throw fish? The original Starbucks is there. Lots of great food with bayview seating, too.
They throw a lot of other things in the market too. Usually not a good place for little kids when I was growing up, but no one ever gave me any problems.
