Shopping Local....

[TheRogue]

I really make attempts to shop local, especially in the last year. Looking at what is happening in this country, I'm trying to do my part. I even cancelled my Cabelas VISA card 6 months ago (yes, I cried for two days!).

Anyway, I was looking for the Garmin Bluechart software for my new GPS unit. Joes and FMO didn't carry it...but I found it at WestMarine at Delta Park for 169.99. Ok, I did a quick check on the internet. I could get it for $109.99 + $6 shipping($24 for 3-day delivery)...Yikes!! Ok, for $50+, I'll go online! Maybe my wife will get it for me for Christmas?

So, we go off to Newport this weekend for our 10yr anniversary. Looking for something to do during the heavy rain of Saturday (you can only spend so much time in a motel room, even on an anniversary ). Walked around the water front, killed time in the shops. (Hey saw Albacore Tuna Captain there, didn't get to say hi). Drove on up the road, and here's Englund Marine. With a little arm-twisting, I got to stop there :grin: . Knowing most coastal tourist traps, I asked if they carried the Bluechart software, and the price. Surprisingly enough, the guy behind the counter said, yup, we have it... $135.00! Not a sale price, not clearance, just regular. Yippee!

So, by waiting, and shopping around, I got really close to the online price, and kept the business in Oregon. Just an example of how to keep a few $$ local.

TR

[ 12-22-2003, 08:49 AM: Message edited by: TheRogue ]

[Straydog]

[img]graemlins/applause.gif[/img] [img]graemlins/applause.gif[/img]

Good job,TR!

"Think global, act local".

[Artwo]

Being the late shopper I am during the holiday season and not having the time left to purchase items online this year at a cheaper price I found out something interesting in my shopping pursuits. I found that a lot of stores will now price match for items you have found on the internet for cheaper. One explination I got for doing this from one store was that they now have to compete where ever they can to get the business. The online shopping has put a whole new spin on price matching with local stores. Some stores will match and some will not, but it never hurts to ask.

[TheRogue]

My wife has a cousin who runs his own internet electronics business. The price he quoted me was more than Englunds.

Good point about the last second shopping and matching prices. Usually I don't bother trying the price match thing, too lazy I guess

TR