Why do I shop at G.I JOE'S???

[TYEE-FISHER]

Knowing Fishermans was closed I decided to try once again to run to Joe's, and try to find a few things I needed. Once again I was met with an aray of empty pegs on all staple items. Clancys, Alvins, Brads wobblers, and wiggle warts ect...

This happens to me ALL the time!!!! I know I have the right not to shop there, but it is unreal how this company does business. I work in the retail sector myself, and make certain I have what my customers need. I takes work, but it can be done.

NEVER have I seen a store with so many empty pegs on merchandise that should be there.(Fishermans can do it)

Im sure a little heat will come my way for this post, but I needed to vent. I have even worked for this company several years ago, and its only gotten worse. I guess I need to chalk it up as a place to buy baseball cleats for my kid. Its just frustrating living in the Gresham area with no options. I also worked for Larry's and sure miss an outfit like that on this side of town.....

There I feel better now. What time does Fishermans open tomorrow?

Oh yea. My nave is David Allen and I live in Troutale

[ 09-01-2003, 08:14 PM: Message edited by: TYEE-FISHER ]

[ZaQ]

How about us out here in Beaverton, the only thing we have right now is Joe's. They do have empty shelves quite often. I have heard of a new shop on the westside in the planning stages. I think it is going to be big. I hope it is true.

[Get Bent]

zaq that new store out our way is going to be a sportsmans warehouse cant wait my self

[justasillyolgirl]

I'm over here in Tigard, and the Joe's here is just as bad. Fortunately though, I'm learning to make my own gear. It's rather gratifying to catch big fish on flies I've tied, or jigs or spinners I've made.

[hookem]

fishermans in oc was open today

[TYEE-FISHER]

Hookem I was at Fishermans this morning, but forgot two things, and tried at 8:00 this evening at Joes.

[fishnxtc]

The store I heard about is not Sportsmans. Plus Sportsmans has a terrible selection when it come to fishing gear. Their sales people are not the best informed people. Hopefully that will change with time. But the rest of the store is great for clothing and what not.........Chris

[1pump]

I've never worked at Joe's, but I'm assuming what we're seeing here is centralized ordering or purchasing where the individual stores don't have any input on what or how much inventory they need. It's better than it was 15 years ago when they were on the verge of folding, but still pretty bad. :depressed:

[Get Bent]

what dont they have carrot milk :grin: i can find every thing i need and all the people there are vary helpfull maybe you just have to be nice :rolleyes:

[Dipnet]

If you guys think you have it bad, try shopping McMinnville :mad: They have Bi-Mart, Walmart and Big 5. What a joke they are!! Bi-Mart isn't too bad for the basics, if they aren't out of them and of course have them ordered. I miss Bill and Fishing Unlimited so much. :depressed: We have to go at least 25 miles even to get to Joes!

Dipnet :grin:

[fishnxtc]

Did I forget to mention they have a terrible selection of tackle.......chris

[TYEE-FISHER]

My choice from first to last on FISHIN GEAR

1st Fishermans
2nd Sportsmans Warehouse
3rd B.C. Angling Post
4th BI Mart
5th Plaid Pantry
6th G.I. JOE'S

David in Toutdale

[The Chub]

GIJOES cannot keep anything stocked. They bill themselves as the northwest outdoorstore, but the don't have what you need. It is really disapointing!


Also, have you guys noticed that they have a sale on something, and then they never replenish.

[rockn'reel]

Hopefully all of you understand is both fisherman's and Gi Joes buy from the same place. That place is all-sports in clackamas (at least the gijoes in this area buy from them). The same thing happens at fisherman's where they run out of stock for extended periods of time. Hopefully if sportsman's can get things figured out about what they need in this area they will become the goto store on both side of the city.

[The Chub]

And if you have ever seen Allsports warehouse, it is not vey big.

[Smj]

FMS was open at Delta Park yesterday, I was there about 1:30 pm. I go in to spend money, (OK not much money, just $35.00) and get treated like I'm putting the guy at the reel counter out! How 'bout a little conversation! A "Hi there how are you? What's going on? What can I get for you? May I help you? Fine weather we're having isn't it? Been gettin' any lately? Watch'a been fishin' for? What ya' gettin' 'em on? Wanna' kiss my butt??????????

SOMETHING PLEASE.....I call it personality!

I guess it's a trade off between Joes' and FMS. FMS didn't have a very good selection of Alvins and other wobblers at least not the colors you want, and heck, the ad just came out yesterday!

Smj

[Get Bent]

your corect kris(xtp) joes tackle is not much to chose from maybe there buyers are fishing :rolleyes:

[Straydog]

Be cautious of speculating on the outage situation at any retailer.

Just like most things, it is much more complicated than it appears on the surface.

There are many reasons any retailer may be out of a particular item at any particular time.
Some are within the control of the retailer. Some are within the control of the distributor. Some are within the control of the factory reps.
Some are within the control of factories.
Some are within the control of customs.
some are within the control of the national economy.
Some are within the control of the world economy.

Just know that not all is what it appears on the surface in terms of product distribution, just as is the case with most things.

EDIT: Also know that in many cases, the store clerk's are not knowledgable in terms of the buying for their particular store. Since there are several avenues of distribution utilized, many are as confused as the consumer as to where and when they get their goods.

As a distributor salesman and a consumer, I share your frustration. But I also know there are a whole lot of variables in the mix.

[ 09-02-2003, 08:16 AM: Message edited by: Straydog ]

[Straydog]

Originally posted by rockn'reel:
[QB] Hopefully all of you understand is both fisherman's and Gi Joes buy from the same place. That place is all-sports in clackamas (at least the gijoes in this area buy from them). /QB]<font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">Please be careful here.

Joe's also buys from Maurice, direct from factories and probably from other distributors as well. Same with Fishermans.

No retailer of any size can hope to stay in business utilizing but one distributor, it does not happen.

[trouttroller]

I have to chime in here. GI was having a sale on corkies and I went in to stock up. I looked for pink pearl and did not find any. The sales person told me that the buyer did buy any of that color because he thought it would not sell. Good Lord!
Want planet was that buyer from. I've caught more steelhead on pink pearl than any other. Don't go in there unless I have to.

[Straydog]

Originally posted by trouttroller:
I have to chime in here. GI was having a sale on corkies and I went in to stock up. I looked for pink pearl and did not find any. The sales person told me that the buyer did buy any of that color because he thought it would not sell. Good Lord!
Want planet was that buyer from. I've caught more steelhead on pink pearl than any other. Don't go in there unless I have to. <font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">You got bad information from that clerk.

[Silver Hilton]

All I know is, a year or so ago, I needed Maxima ultragreen in early december for my steelhead reels. GI JOes was out of stock in Maxima ultragreen, fibreglow, and chameleon, in weights from 8 lb through 15 lb. They were out of stock in these lines through March. Other stores in the area had the line.

There are likely to be many reasons for out of stock conditions, some within the control of the retailer, some not. I have shopped at Joes for well over years, and have observed their consistent out of stocks throughout this time. They appear to have shelf managers that believe that being out of stock of one color and size is fine; that it will force us to buy the other size/color. Well, no it won't. If I want a 4/0 Gami hook, that is what I want. So they lose the sale.

I have wondered over the years if the out of stocking situation is an actual strategy, to generate more trips to the store for clothing and impulse items. It's hard to imagine the condition existing so long without management being aware of the situation and at least tacitly approving it.

I have to disagree with the other poster about Fisherman's. I have always noticed FMS being much more regular about having high volume items in stock.

[TinyWonder]

I choose to buy locally from a small store. It is nice when you walk in the door and the owner is ther and knows your name, insead of hey guy/gal. And if I need anything that is not in stock he can order if for me usually within a few days.

I will say that I do shop at some of the big srores but what you save in $$$ is made up for with diminished customer service.

[Dipnet]

TinyWonder, that is exactly how Bill Cox used to be at Fishing Unlimited in Mac. He knew you by name and would shoot the breeze with you whether you bought anything or not. :smile: I was so sad to see him close and then he passed away a short while later. :depressed:

Dipnet :grin:

[DriftR]

Dipnet,
Do you remember Bill's dog and that box of chew bones and toys he kept in the store? Always had the stuff for sure.

[Dipnet]

Yes, Suzy was her name and I loved that dog!! graemlins/hearton.gif I wonder what became of her after he passed away? If he didn't have what you needed, he would get it ASAP. He built a couple of rods for my husband when he was in the little shop by the theater, that he still uses.

Dipnet :grin:

[dawhunt]

I worked at GI Joes in Vancouver last year for a few months untill I hurt my back and it got pretty depressing for me when we were out of things for a long time and my friends would come in and say whats up ??..I mean we'd be out of FISH HOOKS !!! right in the middle of the best fishing plus differant lures.I ran out of excuses
if they can't get what they need from one supplier then they should have others to go too.
A store that big should be prepared way ahead for the seasons comeing up and have stock on hand.I normally go to fishermans for whatever I need,in fact when I worked at Joes I was always sending people to Fisherman's for what they needed.One of these days a REAL sporting goods store will come to this area and GI JOES will be out of business.
Bob

[Dragfreedrift]

Some friendly advice to those who are getting frustrated at retailers around here:

Get you hands on one of Cabela's Salmon, Steelhead and trout catalogs...they are great and have everything in pictures for you. just pick up the phone and a couple days later....there it is on you doorstep!


HC

[Freakwater]

I do most of my shopping at Delta Park. I usually start at FMS and then go to Joes. It blows my mind when I think of the money FMS could make if they would stay stocked.... say have B10 supplies when it was B10 season, for example. Whatever the fishing du jour is, inevitably they are out of the color or size I want...... then I go to Joe's and they're usually out of it too.

Maybe Silver Hilton is on to something with stocking strategy. In my case as well, they lose the sale. But, I lose with my fuel bill 'cause I keep going back, usually to find stuff still out of stock.

Did I ever tell you about the time I went to Staples to get some staples and they were out of the type I needed?......

jpat

[EZ Limits]

I shop at GI Joes because they often have good sale prices on fishing tackle.

[Airborne]

No more for me, I went in last year just to buy a tip top, I looked everywhere nothing... I asked the guy behind the counter, he was sitting down and didn't even budge but it looked like he may have been in a wheel chair...wrong just big and lazy. but he did motion to where they might be. It was my mistake for looking for them on the hooks, they keep them just tossed into a general area like on the floor and buried in other stuff. I thought after my safari that he might have a torch and glue and be able to put it on wrong. What a shopping catastrophy, then he wanted to argue with me as to why they were out he really got upset when I told him what I thought of his customer service skills or lack there of. After his yelling episode I contacted corporate and they gave me a 25.00 gift card apologized and offered me a job. NO THANKS they need new buyers that are tied in with the local fishing community... just my 2 cents

[Old Coot]

I bought my teen-aged son a rod from the Salem Joe's for christmas last year. Picked it up in late October.

When he unwrapped it, we noticed that the insert for one of the guides was missing. I took it back to the store a couple of days later.

"Sorry. Beyond the 30-day return policy."

Sorry! I'll never shop in your store again.

John Coffey
Salem

[nerta]

:grin: Try living in Catalog Falls, and you can count your blessings.

[Gun Rod Bow]

How come Great American Tackle in Clackamas isn't making this discussion for a small operator, who is helpfull, knowledgeable and has a smaller selection, but a little of everything you should need? Stop in and say hi to "The Tackle ****".

My experience at Joes is usually some pimply faced kid telling me "Oh you don't want that, I fish all the time and this is way better.." :hoboy:

I usually end up driving to FMS or GAT

[WheresMyBobber]

To eliminate this problem, try shopping for tackle and other items you know you're going to need ahead of time or "off season". I buy 90% of my fishing tackle "off season" at GI Joes. I've been doing this for years, and have never had a problem finding what I want.

Planning ahead for your tackle needs several months ahead of time also brings you peace of mind when the fish do arrive.

[Hogback]

I talked to the sporting goods manager at the Joes off of cornell and he is a fisherman and a pretty knowledgeable guy. He told me the company will not take his or anyones advice on what to buy.

[salty dog]

Unless I'm really in a hurry, I try to buy from Cabela's. I've ordered from them for years and they seem to have just about everything I want. I've been to their store in Sydney, Nebraska ans their sales folks know what their doing. I hate to walk into Bi-Mart or GI Joes lolk,ing for something new and having to tell the sales staff the pros and cons of the item or even going so far as to point to the item on the shelf because they don't know which model number I'm talking about. No longer do I buy items that didn't want just to "make do" because GI Joes didn't have exactly what I wanted. Perhaps if enough of us did not settle for an item and let our feet do the talking, some of these stores and their buyers would get the word.

[Sublime]

hmmmm, lets see, "Why do i shopt at G.I. Joes??"

that's simple, because Sportsmans Warehouse has a fishing staff with no knowledge of fishing around this area.

If anything, they regergitate(sp) what they hear from people that walk in. Then, they give the wrong advice or lead you in the wrong direction.

Oh yeah, not to mention the less-than-friendly atmosphere at the check-out stands when trying to pay. its hard to give money to someone that acts like it's an inconvenience that you're even in there and they 'HAVE' to wait on ya.

but don't get me wrong, Joes isn't all that great, either,...but of the two, I'd take Joes, which IS more northwest-oriented instead of a chain outdoor store from Utah that has put many many 'little guys' out of business without a care.

..my $.02 :grin:

[ 09-02-2003, 06:49 PM: Message edited by: Sublime ]

[bob'r down]

Oh I laugh at this post. 12 years ago I lived in Lake Grove and shopped at the Tualatin GI Joes for most stuff (Fishing, hunting, auto, watch batt's, ect.) After looking at empty pegs most of the time I would ask if they had it in the back room and inveritably get their STANDARD ANSWER, "Fred Meyers might have it". I knew I should just drive the extra miles and go to Freddies first but they were right there on the way.

One day I went in for some windshield wiper blades and low and behold they had an empty peg on the one that would fit my truck (the only empty peg). The floor guy stopped and I asked him if they might have any they hadn't put out yet. Then I said, "STANDARD ANSWER". The guy gave me a blank look and I said never mind......he paused and then said (all together now) "Fred Meyers might have them". I looked at him and said....Standard Answer!!!!! :laugh:

Some things never change :whazzup:

Bob

[fisher-price]

Been there done that!!! I have been "Joed" to many times. I won't go there for anything. I will drive 50 miles if I have to. I live in Corvallis but I will go to Eugene, Salem, Coos Bay, or Portland before I will ever go in that store again.

just my thoughts though,

f~p

[Flyin Brian]

Who is the one sniveling about GI Joes?

Now, let's make sure we have the facts...

Abu reels/Lamiglass rods/corkies/athletic shoes on sale at GI kicks butt on Fishermen's and Jokesters Warehouse and forget Bi Mart. If you want car parts, go to a auto parts store... da

I agree with the guy who buys off season...
It is all in the planning and being prepared.

The only thing I go to Fishermen's is the .45 foam bobbers...

GI is not perfect but compared to the rest and overall, no one comes close. There is lots of room for improvement in making GI what it was though. As far at attitude of store staff, GI in far more helpful and decent.

We have a Sportsman's Warehouse in Salem and you can have it.

If this was Big Bob that started this, shame shame

[Gun Rod Bow]

I will offer this on a positive note: The staff at Joes in Sherwood has been, polite, courteous and yes, even nice. Their prices are good, when they have what you want.

Their selection and information can be lacking, but hey...maybe there's a reason why those pegs are bare...hmmmmm.

[wambam]

my wife tried to buy a gerber folding knife that was on sale at joes one christmas, she could see them in plane sight and guy behind the counter gave her an attitude, which if you know my wife is the first wrong thing to do,she told him to get the manager, and he said he was the manager,she proceeded to tell 19 year old manager to stick the knife where the sun don't shine and left, never to return. :cheers:

[TYEE-FISHER]

Flyin Brian, if you read close enough you would known it wasn't Big Bob who started this post, but David in Troutdale.

Like I posted. I work In the retail sector, and make sure I have what my customers need WHEN THEY NEED IT. I manage a paint store for for a local paint company, and if I was out of paint in June, July and August, I would be out of business.

I takes SEVERAL hours a week to make sure I have the right product in stock for anyone who walks in my door to make a purchase. I will not assume they will be back if I don't have what they need.

I assume they won't come back if I send them down the street to buy what they need.

I can't rely on paint brushes to get me through the season, but all products a guy may need to paint a home.

If bobbers are all you are after, then G.I Joes's is the place for you. I have the highest expectations for the store I operate. It sounds like you settle for less.

DAVID IN TROUTDALE

[Mark Mc]

One I went to GI Joe's in Albany to have a Penn 4/0 loaded with 80 lb tuff line (350 yds at 10 cents a yard). Now I know how to put this stuff on, but I trusted the guy must know how, because he works there (first mistake). A few days later I'm 30 miles offshore halibut fishing. Very first drop, the line gets hopelessly snarled, w/knots buried in the spool, because he didn't put it on tight. No, this was not "operator error / backlash". Ended up taking 1/2 hour to cut out at least 1/3 of the line. Can you spell furious? I rose holy h**l with the store manager; I didn't ever want to see the counter guys face again. They gave me a modest gift certificate, but it didn't come close to making up for it.

There is just no substitute for a real fisherperson, who knows gear, behind the counter. It is worth it to pay 10 or 20 % more and support a store that has experts who have a vested interest in your success.

[Flatfish]

Buy what you will need in advance. To try and save money spent on fishing is akin to hitting yourself with a lighter hammer. It may hurt less, but it still hurts!

I have been at this long enough to know what I want and when I want it. I have more tackle than I care to think about.

Of course FMS has a better selection than Joes. Joes is the sports and auto store. It is not "Joes Fishing Shop" now is it.

After you learn what works for you, buy in bulk when it is on sale. then let it gather dust for 8 months before you need it. But when you need it, you will have it. I have 20 silver/chartruse K-14s. They still catch fish. So do blue pirate warts. And a couple thousand corkies. A thousand hooks in bags. Another 500 tied up in different sizes. Pink, orange, and black( tip of the year- They make more than 2 colors of rubber worms) rubber worms. Swivels 500 at a time. Is it a lot of money? Of course. But I will need it sometime. It is just a matter of when.

The last time I walked thru FMS( Delta park), and I walk thru there a lot, they did not have what I was looking for( chrome/blue 10 spot wobblers). They are sold out because it is the go to lure. I have known for months I should pick a few up. Now it is season and I am up a creek. My own fault. graemlins/dork.gif .

If you cannot find something to catch fish on at Joes, maybe you need to try some new things?? They still have more tackle on their shelves than most of us have in our garages( not all of us, but most of us).

Steelhead season will be here in December. Do you have your lures yet? Then go out and get them! It will save you from pulling your hair out on midnight tackle runs. And it is good for the economy.

Mark and the black head, black body, dog.

[steel_beaver]

hello friends.
i hear you all..... i've been wondering about those things too. i've lived in europe for the most part of my life, and as much as i don't like to say this..... "they got us beat!". back there they don't have major stores like JI JOES and Fishermans (well they do, but it is more like warehouses where you go if you are a dealer)... they have a bunch of small neighborhood stores like B.C. Angling Post and The Guide Shop. most of them are close to the popular fishing spots and of course there are lots in the cities. these stores are always open early in the morning, they always have fresh bait.... and they are always prepared to sell you anything you need for the type of fishing that is done in the region. the owners are fishermen and they know what they need to suply, so the shelves are always full with what you need......

when i moved here, this was the first thing that i didn't like about fishing in oregon..... then i read the regulations and the list grew :shocked: :grin: :wink: . i wonder if it is possible to do the same thing here, because i love oregon... and i love fishing..., but JOES is not helping me to enjoy it as much as i should...as we should

[RipDatLip]

LMAO, this thread is great...

I must admit that I LOVE working at FMS!

Matt

[Don Becker]

GI Joes, for many many years now, has been the very last place I will ever go. Their inability to restock their shelves is the reason. When I can't find "it" at Bi-Mart, Sportsmans Warehouse, or Fishermans Marine I'll try GI Joes . . . 9 1/2 times out of ten, I walk out of there without making a purchase.

[Finn-icky]

We should all be glad we live in a country where we have freedom of speech as long as we give our name. It is easy to find fault at any of the businesses noted, but I'm thankful I can at least choose where I go to do business. I think Bob was first to mention planning ahead and I couldn't agree more, however there are times somethings can be over looked and needed on the spur of the moment. Thats when the frustration peg o meter usually gets rung quickly due to poor planning on the stores part and our own. For me its when the stores seem to not care about what the customers are after and then getting the don't bother attitude that I usually get at (opps, I can't say). All this aside, I am very happy I live in this area and can enjoy what it offers.

[Kruechief]

How in the heck do you run out of 2/0 Owner Cutting Points and 6/0 Owner Chisel Points in September? :mad:

Or 1 oz and 1 1/2 oz Westcoast floats? graemlins/berry.gif

GI Joes is a great store in so many ways here in Albany.

But the idiots at the top do not listen to the people (like Rick graemlins/applause.gif ) who know the needs of the customer.

IMHO, all the bull about thinking ahead is unrealistic. I should be able to get what I need and/or want when I need and/or want it. :shrug:

My only experience is here in Albany so I can't say much about the other store. Although, it sounds like the pattern is identical. :shrug:

Krue

[AllThumz]

Well, Joe's has had Coyote spoons in their sale flyers for the last 2 weeks. I've been in there (Albany) twice and the pegs were at least half empty both times. :depressed:

As Kruechief alluded, Rick is about the only one in that store that knows what's going on. The rest of the employees wouldn't make it working in the myriad of espresso stands in the area.

John

[Straydog]

Originally posted by Kruechief:
How in the heck do you run out of 2/0 Owner Cutting Points and 6/0 Owner Chisel Points in September? :mad: <font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">Someone's crystal ball must have failed them... :wink:


Or 1 oz and 1 1/2 oz Westcoast floats? graemlins/berry.gif <font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">Very small factory that wouldn't take on a major distributor because they felt they could not keep up with production.... looks like they may be right. :wink:


GI Joes is a great store in so many ways here in Albany.

But the idiots at the top do not listen to the people (like Rick graemlins/applause.gif ) who know the needs of the customer. <font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">Ouch! When did you meet these folks and spend enough time around them to learn they, in your opinion, are "idiots"? Seems they have been around awhile for such "idiots".... :hoboy:

I have been in this business for some 25 years and the same arguments and opinions have been floated over my career. The thing is, it seems few want to accept the honest answers and understand the challenges.

One thing has always been consistent in my experience and that is the fact that the average person has no clue what it takes to make sure the right product is on the shelf at the right time and the right price.

BTW, fishing tackle isn't paint and the seasons, regulations, number of vendors, regional differences in consumer patterns, regulation variables, mid season changes, etc. etc. etc make it totally unique from just about any other business.

Another thing I have witnessed over the years is probably hundreds of people that loved to fish and hunt decide to become sporting goods retailers, open up shop, lose their rears and are out of the business within 12 months. I have read the opinions of several candidates for just that in this thread.

Of course, some get into the business for the same reasons and are successful for many years. Let's see, BiMart, GI Joes and Fishermen's come to mind............. graemlins/idea.gif

[ 09-03-2003, 09:36 AM: Message edited by: Straydog ]

[foxer]

Fact is if your favorite store does not have it, most likely someone else will. As a consumer i do not care what the reason is that something is out, its not my problem. If a store is always out of something I want, you guessed it, I have no reason to go back. I like to support local stores etc, but sometimes mail order is the best way to go...

[TYEE-FISHER]

Stray Dog...my guess is you either work for Joe's or a company like Joe's. The company I work for is seasonal, and takes hard work and dedication to have what the customer wants when they need it. Look at the majority of the post's here. You are one who settles for less. There is no reason for a store to be out of merchandise when the consumer needs it. For a guy who has no expectations from a store he buys from, you would be the perfect customer.

[Wang]

As a consumer you shouldnt have to settle for less but we dont have a choice unless everybody is willing to pay more at a smaller store.

Retail is a low paying job with employees who generally dont care ( Im sure's there exceptions) about whats on the shelf or if you get what you want or not.

I try to plan ahead but it is not always possible due to other obligations.

I dont mind spending a few bucks more at Free Willies for a certain color of diver or .39 more for a pack of gammis at a coastal tackle store somewhere. Id rather pay a little more to keep the small guys going. To me its a lot easier and probably cheaper since Im already there anyways. By the time I drive across town to Joes or Sportsman Ive lost at least an hour and spent gas money. What have I saved?? I saved frustration by not wasting my time with Joes or the other big names.

[Stew]

quote by Kruechief:
Or 1 oz and 1 1/2 oz Westcoast floats?
quote by Straydog:
Very small factory that wouldn't take on a major distributor because they felt they could not keep up with production.... looks like they may be right.

Well not exactly....WCF is a small business allright but has no trouble keep their floats in other retailers. GI Joes does not carry West Coast Floats because of a dispute about billing.

[ 09-04-2003, 12:09 AM: Message edited by: Stew ]

[Steelheader69]

I'll say this much. I've shopped at Joes (and other shops) in the off season and have ALWAYS had problems when it comes to what I need. Sales items, forget it. Get there first thing in morning of sale and those slots are usually empty, or near empty.

Straydog, I've dealt with distributors, and know quite a few guys who used to be distributors. Most cut breaks to big companies. The companies you quote are bigger companies who offer "everything". They get more customers this way. With that type of buying power, they can go to distributors and buy in bigger bulk cheaper then the Mom and Pop/lower scaled shops. They can't compete, since they normaly PURPOSELY undercut the shops. Know of one big store in Grays Harbor that opened up, and undercut the local shops that thrived on tackle. Once they were all gone, raise the prices. BUT, the big key is knowing your customers. You can NOT tell me they can't get a general idea on WHAT to order. My job is delivering stock for "seasons", whether it be fishing, xmas, etc. Guess how far ahead most of these stores (who aren't as fancy as Joes and the like) order? Hmmmm, say it this way, I normally deliver Xmas stock in FEBRUARY!!! Most are rolling that stuff almost a year in advance. They know what they need and have it ordered so they have plenty in stock. I know that for the most part there are certain colors that may change, but for most part similar hooks, corkie colors, and lures are ordered the same EVERY year. If it wasn't the case, I wouldn't see the same lures/colors gone each time I make a jaunt into a Joes (I'll browse when I drop the kids off for a haircut next door). I normally go in for a soda and a candy bar and check out what there is of the tackle. I know that some companies have exactly slated what they need, when they need it, and how much. They have orders in, and have it ready to go.

For those talking about Lamis/ABu's, etc at Joes. Of course they get a cheaper price on them. They buy in huge bulk (that most can't afford to do) and undercut. That's how most bigger companies work. Now, I noticed when they sold Loomis, they were stuck with prices that Loomis set. At least up here in WA. I know I used to shop at a store that made Joes look lowkey (and it's a general purpose store) Sportco in Fife. But it's even getting too big for it's britches at time. I miss the little store it used to be. Way back before it was bought out. It was a store that grew on it's own only selling fishing and hunting tackle founded by a guy like Straydog said would flounder and fold the business.

I'm just tired of the big stores. Not enough of the small stores (since they're pretty much hard to keep going thanks to the superstores). And, a good store doesn't buy from distributors. They have the reps of the companies come to them. They're the one's who check out the shelves and restock what's needed. Know of a store that does that. Only negative. It also distributes to OTHER stores with their stock. So, they will be low supplying some gas station somewhere else.

I will end up with the "employee" aspect. Like any company, there are good and bad employees. BUT, I will have to disagree with the person who basically said "You have no idea who these people are or worked with them". Something like that. Well, you get a good impression off the get go by what they tell you. I know after my divorce, I upraded the reel off one of rods, and bought a new loomis/ABu setup as a celebration of getting rid of my wife. I had it loaded by this kid with line. Well, first trip out was that weekend on the Hoh. Wonderful day, but lost two nice steelhead thanks to the new reels. One I set the hook on, and fish ran. Well, drag wouldn't engage (came off on hook set). Fish took a fast run, burned my thumb, and backlashed. Used my backup drift rod. But then put the plug rod out. Set drag and let line out. First fish on and almost broke the rod. The drag locked up. Free spooled and played it for awhile. But thumb still hurt from playing the other fish earlier. Finally thought I had drag working, and fish made a fast run. Snipped off. Finished the rest of day with my one rod doing double duty. Made the long trip home and walked into the Joes I bought them from where the kid who I bought them from was there (and a couple of his sidekicks). I told them what happened (eventhough I was ticked, I was calm). Guess what he told me? "You have to back these star drags off every time you fish them or drag won't work right". His buddies chimed in too. Well, here I was on a couple hours sleep, and did alot of traveling (and still was in my waders). That's when I let loose on him. I have used ABU's since I was 7. I can pull them apart and rebuild them. I know how they work. The sales clerk wasn't going to help me, since he was blaming me for failure of maintenence. I stormed out and brought out my other rod with ABU on it. (I was furious by then). It was my first rod/reel I had ever bought on my own (FS85c and 5001C ABU back in 79/80'). I told him I had used that rod at the time almost 18 years and had no problems with it. Funny that first time out two reels fail, and i'm the fault for faulty maintenence/usage when I have a garage full of vintage reels that are still completely functional. Luckily, the manager stepped in. I explained the problem. I was given two new reels (reluctantly) and was sent on my way. Haven't bought much since that day. I'm in no way an expert, but I know what I'm doing when it comes to gear and fishing. I didn't need a lecture, especially since this kid remembered me buying the reels a week before. Now, I could understand if the reels looked like they'd been tossed down a mountainside. But it was first time out, and they looked fresh out of the box. SHEESH.

[justasillyolgirl]

One of two things, if not both happens to me every time I go into Joe's, I'm either ignored, or they don't have basic things I need. The bottom line is that their buyers have no idea what to buy, how much to buy, nor when to buy, and the store managers don't seem to care enough about running their business to stay in stock.
I work for a major retailer built on customer service. A HUGE part of customer service is actually having the product my customers want. If my store manager asks me "why is this a hole on the shelf?" I'd better be able to answer with "It'll be here on such and such date," or "I'm headed to the such and such store to pick some up.." or some other way that I'm getting the product into my store. I would be handed my backside if my response were "I dunno..."
I just figure "Well, Joes doesn't want my money, so I guess I'll give it to someone that does". Things will not change unless their store level management takes more ownership of the stores rather than taking for granted that people will continue to shop there.

[SSPey]

I mostly fly fish, where small shops rule the roost. Some of these shops have terrible or attitude, but others can be excellent. Its nice going into a small excellent store, having the owner greet you by your name, call you tomorrow about an item you ordered because he said he would call you tomorrow, etc. REAL service from REAL people.

Seems that many are looking to save 10 cents on tackle, yet motoring around in $40K boats and pumping $2/gallon into their F350s. No, not the poor bankie in a beat up Lincoln Cutlass. You know who you are...

I'm encouraged to read some poeple on this post praising the benefits of the small mom-and-pop stores. If I had to work in the fishing retail business, that's where I'd want to work, and so that's where I'll shop.

[bigspif]

Steve at FM in Jantzen Beach is one of the most knowledgeable fishermen I've met in a long time and he is extremely honest Told me to buy a certain reel only for my needs knowing he was out of them at the time. He picked up the phone and found it at another store, had it shipped in overnight for me. Thats customer service to the max. Go see Steve at the fishing counter of FM...You'll be glad you did ! Promise !!! Tell him Richard sent ya :wink:

[Slugranch]

I use mail order for most of my purchasing, and of course Englund Marine. A couple of the local bait shops stock some items, but the neatest place is a little convenience store in Montesano Wa. They have one of the best selections of corkies, yarn, and other tackle that I've seen in the whole SW Washington area.Right across the road from the west bound exit. Nice selection.

[Straydog]

Originally posted by TYEE-FISHER:
Stray Dog...my guess is you either work for Joe's or a company like Joe's. The company I work for is seasonal, and takes hard work and dedication to have what the customer wants when they need it. Look at the majority of the post's here. You are one who settles for less. There is no reason for a store to be out of merchandise when the consumer needs it. For a guy who has no expectations from a store he buys from, you would be the perfect customer. <font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">Nice guess, but wrong.

It is not a matter of being one who settles for less, it is a matter of being one in a position to really know how the business works. Sure I am outnumberd, how many Sporting Goods Distributors do you know? How many post on this board? My guess is you're likely the only paint store manager on here. Would that make you willing to settle for less because you are outnumbered or would that maybe give you more knowledge to discuss the paint store business than a sporting goods salesman or anyone else outside the business being discussed?

Stew,

Thanks for setting me straight on the particulars of West Coast floats. They did indeed turn down a major distributor for the reason I noted.

On the other hand, you have offered yet one more reason why a store may be out of something and it has nothing to do with the baloney I have read from many on here, IE. "they don't care", "they are idiots", "they don't know what they are doing", "they don't want my money" (That one is a reeeeeaaaaallll knee slapper!).
As I have stated in the past, there are many variables that dictate whether a store is in stock on certain items at certain times than a layman could be expected to know.

Tyee,

There is seasonal business when you know for sure the season is coming and have a pretty good handle on what the volume should be. Again, it isn't the fishing business. I have had entire steelhead seasons shut down due to high water. I have seen salmon seasons shut down do to quotas being met. Many salmon seasons are not even set until shortly before they open. The Columbia had ZERO summer salmon seasons for some 30 years...... how are factories, distributors and retailers to predict and buy for the fact the state decideds to open a season? We went back and forth from one season to the next living with changing hook regulations..... barbless to barbed, size 1 or smaller for bait then no limit, size and style restrictions for salt water vs. fresh water and back and forth. We had horrible runs of salmon for years and in the just last three have things picked up considerably, again how do you plan for increases and decreases in runs? Remember, just like any good retail business, fishing tackle stores can not sit on huge amounts of inventory and be succesful. Just as in any retail business, turns is the name of the game and to say stores should simply load up on popular sizes and colors of 'widgets' is setting up a store for sure failure...


I know all too well that there are good and bad buyers and planners in our industry as well as salesmen, just as there are in others. However, as I have stated, there are also many, many variables that no other industry I can think of has to consider in planning their purchases to have enough on the shelf during the season without having to inventory large amounts of overstock in the off season. Also as I have stated, there are a lot of you that seemingly have no desire to know or understand all of the challenges that are involved in having the right inventory at the right time for all of the various fisheries and their related seasons and restrictions.

Finally, people need to consider that all retail businesses and their associated suppliers are in business to sell as much as they can and that they do indeed strive to be in stock with the right goods at the right time. Obviously they don't always succeed but know that they are trying. To say they don't care is absurd. :hoboy:

Steelheader,

Someone that has used ABU's as long as you should certainly know that their drags suck...... always have. Even the manual says to back the drag off. I am not saying you were treated right by the person behind the counter but I am saying he is right and that your gripe should be directed to the poor quality drags on Ambassaduers, as well as the retail clerk that didn't treat you as you felt you should.

[ 09-04-2003, 08:23 AM: Message edited by: Straydog ]

[Flatfish]

I looked at opening a West side tackle biz. It would require a HUGE amount of product on the floor to be profitable.

In my eyes, unless someone had deep pockets and did not care much about making a living, it will take a big shop to make it.

Volume does make up for quality. The consumer has spoken.

Mark and the dog.

[Straydog]

Originally posted by Steelheader69:

Straydog, I've dealt with distributors, and know quite a few guys who used to be distributors. Most cut breaks to big companies. The companies you quote are bigger companies who offer "everything". They get more customers this way.<font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">I didn't make my point well....... what I am saying is these guys have been succesful and around for a long time so they must be doing something right. The rhetoric being put forth in this thread would lead one to believe they do nothing right. Further, they did not start out as big regional chains......

With that type of buying power, they can go to distributors and buy in bigger bulk cheaper then the Mom and Pop/lower scaled shops....... I normally deliver Xmas stock in FEBRUARY!!!<font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">Yup, Christmas comes the same time every year regardless of the weather, the number of elves in the No. Pole and with no season closures due to too many toys being 'caught'..." it's own only selling fishing and hunting tackle founded by a guy like Straydog said would flounder and fold the business.<font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">I didn't say all would flounder......... I said I have seen many that have. I also noted there are successes out there such as BiMart, Joe's and Fishermens. These guys did not open their doors as leaders in the industry. I also know many succesful independants such as Gary Waterhouse in Clackamas, the Black Bird in Medford and Big R stores in Medford, Klamath and Redmond, Pat's Hand Tied Flies in Shady Cove, U Save in Grants Pass, Bradbury's Grants Pass, Waldron's in Roseburg, etc. etc. etc... Certainly there are those that make it very well. That does not change the fact I have seen probably hundreds fail over the years.... :shrug:

And, a good store doesn't buy from distributors. They have the reps of the companies come to them. They're the one's who check out the shelves and restock what's needed. <font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">With all due respect, your lack of hands on experience is glaring....... most large stores utilize both channels of distribution. You will find few if any factory reps calling on small independants, especially once you get out of the metro area. :hoboy: You are also contridicting your earlier statement about stores buying in bulk and therefore getting distributor discounts. :shrug:

[ 09-04-2003, 08:59 AM: Message edited by: Straydog ]

[Steelheader69]

Straydog. Guess you really don't know ABU's at all then I assume. Drags always sucked? Hmmmm, I know all my pre 80's have wonderful drags, and have held up to many days fishing. New ABU's, well that's another story. I can lock my old ABU's drags down to where the lock tight. I guess you must only have fished with newer silver framed reels I guess. :shrug: In those newer models they tell you to back star drag off (which I did anyways), the older models never told you to(I have 4 manuals from the 60's-70's and none say back off drag). I know my Dad used same 7000c for 10 years without backing off drag, never had a problem with it. But, it was an older red framed he bought around 69'.

No, I didn't contradict myself, and I for one DEAL with fishing distributors through my side business. So I know EXACTLY how they work. Shall I name names for you? I buy from all the same distributors and companies that all fly shops buy from, and also who I assume some of the bigger stores buy from as well. So no, I don't have second hand knowledge, I have FIRST HAND! Yes, there are some small shops who aren't metro who have reps come to them. Don't kid yourself. Maybe they don't do it in Oregon, but they do in Washington. I used to deliver to 3 of the reps (including the ABU guy, who also did other tackle at one time or another in his career). These guys traveled to dealers/shops taking orders and restocking supplies ON THE SHELVES!!! If you distribute, you probably have spoke with them, I only know one extremely well on a first name basis. All three I've seen, or BS'd with on fishing trips or have seen them at other tackle shops around the NW on my trips. I know from talking to them that they travel as far as IDAHO and down through the Columbia Gorge checking on shops that carry their lines they work for. But what I was getting at, the deals that big stores get are MUCH better then smaller shops. Normally buying in huge gross like they do gets them much better deal (that is the nature of ANY business).

Seasons, hmmmm, well, every year there is a season. And, for one, closures are a part of them. BUT, those closure are usually noted (at least here in WA) 6-8 months in advance (when the regs come out). From there, they can easily dictate what the stock should be. Fishing runs normally run +/- a couple weeks. With the knowledge of seasons and what is open before hand, they should adequately be able to stock shelve accordingly. And, I can tell you have NO idea on normal stores. Just because Holidays come same time every year, doesn't mean they know what to stock. They guestimate, and sometimes try to predict what to stock. Of course their are some try and true things to STOCK for shopping. I'm behind the scenes, and usually am getting my computer ready to sign while they're ripping boxes open. Year to year, what they stock is different and some the same. The difference between yourself and I is that you have 10 more years doing this, but I deal with 100's of stores DAILY! I've personally dealt with most big companies (fishing, grocery stores, etc). So I get a wide range of what they get in, and what they ship out. Especially doing the job as long as I have, delivering to same customers, you REALLY get to know what times of year are busiest and what stock they get and when. But like anything, there are things they normally will stock up on (like hooks and line), but then the specialty stuff they have to guess on (wobblers and such for kings, or certain spinners for coho for an example).

Stray, don't try to nitpick when I'm writing something this long. I know what I've seen and have personally dealt with. But, the distributor that was mentioned above was one that I don't deal with (if that's the one Joes uses). I know now to stay away from them if they can't meet demands. So far, the 6-8 distributors I use always can meet my demands, with maybe a holdup on certain materials. BUT, I will add this. Some of the distributors do change price depending on your buying power. I have a couple catalogs that divides you into categories depending on your purchases. Once you meet a certain level, you move into another catagory. Maybe we deal with different distributors I guess. :shrug:

[Straydog]

Steelheader,

Interesting strategy..... write a novella and then tell me not to nitpick your long post..... :grin:

I purchased my first Ambassaduer in about 1975. The first thing I did, at the suggestion of my boss who had been using them for some time, was to replace the drag washers as they stuck then just as they do now. You are right in that they didn't used to put in the manual to back them off, but they should have.
The fact you can tighten the drag down to completly lock the spool is not the sign of a good drag, but believe what you will.

The distributor mentioned above would likely not supply you unless you are a store front retailer anyway but there is no factual evidence presented here that they would not be able to keep you in business. Again, since there are so many variables involved, to make the jump that a store is out of business on particular items at a particular time to mean one of the distributors they use can't supply them is to show that you either do not know the workings of the entities involved or do not understand the vast number of variables at play.

Further, many seasons are not decided months in advance and if the weather screws up a season, it is not listed in the regs. that there will be closures or recommendations to not fish due to lack of water or that people won't fish due to high, muddy water. Or, in the case of the last couple of years, the number of fish people can harvest has been upped for some fisheries in mid season........ how does a buyer plan for that?
Sure, we can and do have a general idea of what they need and when. Problem is, generalities, whether it be buying tackle or judging distributors or retailers don't work. The devil is in the details. If general knowledge tells me a store is going to go through 24 ea. Gama. 3/0 hooks in a week it is going to be pretty close but if you are the customer wanting to buy package number 25 or 26, it dosen't mean a thing.

As for the factory reps. I guess I didn't make my point clear. What I am saying is that due to the numbers of dealers vs the numbers of factory guys for any particular region, they can not possibly call on every retailer and see that they stay in business. In addition, due to minimum order quantities and freight allowance factors, many dealers can not qualify to buy direct nor would it make sense for them to do so.

One more point you seem to be missing......... I am not using a distributor, I AM a distributor salesman!! graemlins/idea.gif And for the record, no, you do not know EXACTLY how all distributors work because they do not all work the same way. (there is that genrality bug biting you in the rear again.... :wink: )

[ 09-04-2003, 12:29 PM: Message edited by: Straydog ]

[Steelheader69]

LOL Straydog. When I say lock down on the ABU, I mean that when needed, it will come down to very tight on a hard fighting fish on a stiff rod. Of course you want it to roll, a completely stopped spool will snap the line. But I know a few reels that will not hold a fish. My Dad bought his first ABU in the 50's, and has been using them ever since WITHOUT modifying. Hasn't had a problem, and only minimal upkeep. And YES, he fishes quite a bit. But, we BOTH got our ABU's at same time (mine was in 76'). Never had one problem with mine in all these years. I still have 15-20 of them. All are fished on plug, mooching, and drift rods without fail. I bought my first one a couple years later (my Dad loaned me one of his in 76')

Onto distributors, I deal with more then you would ever imagine, not just a couple. All I do through my job is deliver to stores and homefront distributors (I'm a UPS driver). I get all the ins and outs from them. I know they all don't work out the same way. Some actually carry the stock with them and see the customers as needed. Some see the customers and take orders and supply what they can. Some never leave their house, and take the orders and forward them on to the main distribution plant. I know more then you may think. How I got inline with most of the distributors out there (luckily, most are straight from the manufacturer, not a secondary distributor).

Also, you seem to think that general commerce is different then the fishing industry. It's not. How many times do you think that stores have geared up for "fantastic selling seasons" and have the economy drop and had too much overstock at end of season? More then you can imagine. A few years ago we had a terrible snowstorm at Xmas. People didn't come out and shop like they should. Guess what? I was taking old stock back to the distributors, or sending them off to those "discount warehouse" type dealers since they didn't have a sales year like expected. It's not a fishing industry thing at all. It happens in ALL aspects. The point I was trying to get across to you which you didn't understand. It's part of my job to know how distribution works, and time frames of when stuff comes in and knowing stock days. Stock days speed up during busy times (holidays, sales, etc) so instead of a weekly drop, they get bi/tri weekly drops.

So yes, I do know how distribution works. Hell, I work for one of the biggest package distributors in the world. Same principal, have to know how many airplanes and trucks have to go to certain distinations. We schedule drivers depending on influx of packages and how many drivers on vacation. Runs on same principal, just different product. You say they can't generalize? Hmmmm, UPS has been doing it for 90 years ,and is one of the highest revenue companies and has one of the highest profit margins in the US because of it. They've done NOTHING but generalize on what has happened in same time frame for the past 90+ years. Is it perfect? No. But it keeps expenses down, and profits up. There are always mistakes, things fluctuate, but has worked so far.

But, this is a stalemate. You know what you know, I know what I know. I know I've dealt with quite a few fishing distributors, and I know what I've seen, and from what I know to guys I deal with. I've seen those same guys out at small shops statewide (I was always left notes on when/where they were and phone #'s to contact in case there was a problem with product coming in or if it was a big shipment that needed special attention). I know he would go personally to shops as far as Sekiu and out to Boise. Always would stuff his suburban full in order of shop he'd go to first and head out. He did quite well for himself. So must have been doing something right doing all that traveling. But his main job was to service smaller shops.

Guess we can agree to disagree. I won't budge. I know you won't either. Like you said, all are different. Problem is, I have to DEAL with all of them daily. Trust me, some distributors (well, MOST) need to restructure what they do. Surprising they stay in business at all. But there are a few who are sharp and make some decent $$ at what they do.

[ 09-04-2003, 06:40 PM: Message edited by: Steelheader69 ]

[Straydog]

Steelheader,

Fair enough...... I think agree to disagree is a good idea. One thing though, it seems in reading the last two paragraphs of your post that you may be looking at distributor reps and factory reps as one and the same. Maybe I am just not tracking your post well.

And yes, we will certainly agree to disagree on the fact that the fishing industry has some unique aspects to it. :smile:

[Steelheader69]

Oh, thought I'd clarify this as well. When I was talking about not buying from distributors. I know some of the most successful tackle shop here in WA cut out most of the distributors and became their OWN distributor. They are the one's who are making alot of money selling at their own shop, and selling to other smaller shops. They cut out the middle man. I know I've cut off some of my pricing going straight to some of the manufacturers. Some set prices equal to some distributors. But some will sell cheaper, especially since when you tie professionally, you buy in bulk lots.

Also, I just reread something. Could you clarify where I said a company would go out of business because they weren't stocked? I read that and it threw me. I reread my posts, and must've missed that one. Plus, I KNOW you're a distributor. I assume you've either worked for others, or know others in the business (usually most competitors normally make friends with each other in the field). I know I'm first hand friends with a few Fedex and Airborne guys. We talk shop, and BS too. Get a feel for other companies that way.

[Straydog]

Sorry Steelheader, too much writing, tell me where I said that so I can check the context and maybe clarify. I have a hunch I was talking in terms of the entire thread rather than just you but would rather you help me out than having to read all that again. :blush:

As for the retailers becoming their own distributor and cutting out others, well, yea, that does make a lot of sense. The point is, they still have access to smaller quantity, quicker turn orders for their retail establishments.

[ 09-04-2003, 07:08 PM: Message edited by: Straydog ]

[Steelheader69]

Straydog, yeah, they are BOTH. Factory reps and distributors. One guy (he moved before I could milk him lol) distributed the lines of Shimano's, Daiwa's, Berkeley, and a few other companies (some plugs, lines, etc). John, who lives in outter Gig Harbor distributes tackle and guns. He does HK, S&W, ABU (well, used to), Trilene I think, Kunnan when they were still around, and a few others. I know he had a garage and main storage building full of supplies to stock stores. Then I have a few craft store distributors. Talk about a pain in the butt. When they get a load, they get a LOAD. A few cases of stamps (for making custom cards) weighs a TON.

Then of course I have the reps. Partylight, drug companies, and other misc company reps. So I mean both. I used to get boxes of sample packs of antiinflamatories and indigestion pills from a customer in Lakewood. Miss delivering to her. But best was the food reps. Man, remember getting sample boxes of Planters new products. Had some honey glazed sun flower seeds that were to die for. But, she lived in a very hostile place. Glad I never took that route for good. Ughh.

[Steelheader69]

Originally posted by Straydog:
Steelheader,

Again, since there are so many variables involved, to make the jump that a store is out of business on particular items at a particular time to mean one of the distributors they use can't supply them is to show that you either do not know the workings of the entities involved or do not understand the vast number of variables at play.

<font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">There you go. That's what I was talking about. How about a truce and a :cheers: :grin: BTW, which company do you distribute from? Just curious if it's one I have been using.

I understand the variables part. I deal with them, since I used to tie for a couple supply shops. Plus, being on the buying end, I realize that times they can't always get access to say an exotic pelt that is only available at certain times. I understand that completely. Especially since I have had to break down and pay "fly shop prices" on products because all my distributors couldn't fill the order and wanted to keep my customers happy and fill their fly orders. Trust me I know. LOL

[ 09-04-2003, 07:11 PM: Message edited by: Steelheader69 ]

[Straydog]

Sorry, work language being used. When I said "out of business" on a particular item, I meant out of stock.

You made the comment that implied that if GI Joe's was out of merchandise it must mean their distributor could not keep that merchandise in stock for them. My point being there are other reasons Joe's (or any store) may be out of an item besides their distributor not being able to deliver. EDIT: Such as the exotic pelt scenario you described.

Hey, there is no war in my mind so a truce isn't needed. But, I will shut up and join you in that :cheers: !!

I prefer not to post my employer on here for various reasons. If you don't use us, I am confident you deliver for us. We are a major shipper with UPS. BTW, you guys do a great job! graemlins/applause.gif

[ 09-04-2003, 07:18 PM: Message edited by: Straydog ]

[TYEE-FISHER]

Straydaog...congratulations on your number of posts. OH High And Mighty. Seventy plus posts on this one, and your still the unminority. I would assume in Grants Pass things get a little stale, and stiring up the pot is kinda fun!!! I wish ALL my customers were like you. I would own the market share in my region. But my customers make me earn their business. Please....no long outdrawn replies, or quotes.

[TYEE-FISHER]

OK....now I get the big picture!! STRAYDOG....I just did a search on all your latest posts, and all my questions were answered. I would encourage all to click on straydogs icon, and see some history here. I believe someone likes to mix things up!!!

[Straydog]

Originally posted by TYEE-FISHER:
Straydaog...congratulations on your number of posts. OH High And Mighty. Seventy plus posts on this one, and your still the unminority. I would assume in Grants Pass things get a little stale, and stiring up the pot is kinda fun!!! I wish ALL my customers were like you. I would own the market share in my region. But my customers make me earn their business. Please....no long outdrawn replies, or quotes. <font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">Boy, I guess you told me........ :laugh:

"...unminority..."?? "...outdrawn..."?? :whazzup:

OOppsss.. I used a quote. Bad dog. :blush:

[ 09-04-2003, 09:35 PM: Message edited by: Straydog ]

[garyk]

OK, I've tried to stay out after breaking away from retail but I have to weigh in here (in my best northern NJ Goodfellas drawl..."I tries to get out..and...they Drew me back In")...

So, like 20 years in retail - clerk, owner, manager, buyer, seller, manager, fishing and nonfishing...I've worn the various hats.

That said, with my experience at Hayden Meadows 'Joes, I don't see how they're gonna stay in business. I don't see the customers and inventory-turns to justify the investment.

Today's visit was typical...

Walk past the 3/4 empty gondola display of winter gloves in the _front_ of the store (you merchandisers will get this) on the way to the tackle aisles. There, at the height of the season, I find the wobbler pegs pretty much empty and picked over. What I need isn't there - if it ever was. But hey, that adjacent full aisle display of K13 -K14- K15's is jam packed full and ready for springers NEXT MARCH.

Over now to the Owner treble hooks....Nope, 50% empty and no 1/0's.

I do find a DoubleDeep6 on sale and buy it.

Over to the reels 'cause the last fish stripped the gears on my 6501c4. The clerk there - the only clerk in sight - is dutifully winding on some line and can't help me or the other 5 or 6 customers waiting around. I head for the door.

Bottom line, I walk in expecting to spend about $100 or more and instead leave $8.48 in their till.

On a final note, have you noticed how despite all the *** and inventory software, inventory management seems to be at an all time low? My motto was always - "If you don't got it, you can't sell it". This analog concept seems to have been lost in the digital age.

[trouttroller]

Almost forgot my best GI joe story. Was in the Hillsboro store right before Christmas doing some Holiday shopping. I was in line and got to the cashier. She was probably 20 years old. I put down my items and she picked up a small garbage can that was at her feet and began to puke in it. Now, I have been an EMT for 20 years so that kind of thing doesn't bother me much. I asked her if she was alright and she said she had the flu but they would not let her go home because it was the Christmas rush. Bummer for her. I hope she didn't infect the whole store customers and all.

[Straydog]

I have an idea!?!?!

Since it is possible to find negatives in all businesses, why not take each sponsor one at a time and trash them on this board in a show of our appreciation for providing a forum such as this..... graemlins/idea.gif

You all have done a fine job of trashing Joe's, I guess Okuma should be next, or are you all not done biting Joe's hand that feeds this board...? :hoboy: :sick:

Ungrateful lot, aren't you? graemlins/dork.gif

[ 09-05-2003, 07:34 AM: Message edited by: Straydog ]

[Boatdog]

Can anyone tell me where to get some Clancy's, Alvins, or other wobblers near Gresham. Been to Joes, their out.

[Jennie@ifish]

OK... We have hit the bottom of the garbage can.. uh.. barrel!

I'm so sorry, but I can't allow this to continue.

Every business has it's nighmare stories. I cannot prove nor disprove any of them, and as they get told, over and over, they spiral out of control.

This post borders on breaking lots of ifish rules, and I have let it go on.

I really have to say, "Enough is enough" at some point. This is that point.

I'm closing this thread.

Thanks,
Jen