The Hobo Camp Fire Is going well #IX.. Stop In!!!

[ezdays]

I think internet buying did some in.  But I don't think it is that simple.  Some had owners that wanted to retire.  I don't think they are very profitable businesses compared to others, and I think younger people have no interest in owning such a business because there are much better ways of earning more money.   I think people in general are busier, and would rather shop online and have it come to their door.  Younger people don't enjoy walking into a store as much.  Remember, just about all brick and mortar retail is dying with the exception of a few big boxes.  I think the heyday of this hobby was probably 1960s-1970s, but I don't think it is declining much right now.  I see plenty of online interest, and interest from some pretty young adults.  They are mostly on social media groups rather than discussion boards like this.

There are generations now that will never savor the thrill of browsing. Spending hours in a store just looking, smelling and touching things that you have no intention of buying, or possibly could afford. Ladies "shopping" for clothes or checking out cosmetics, men trying out sporting goods. I remember I was at a trap meet and picked up a shotgun with a price tag of almost $100,000. Couldn't afford it, wouldn't buy it if I could, but I had it in my hands, try that on the Internet. I can watch an engine going around on a track and pick one up and admire the details, when all I can see on the Internet are pictures of it. I drive though our small neighborhood and see UPS, FedEx, Prime and other delivery trucks, they all represent missed sales by local businesses and lost opportunities by buyers to shop the old fashion way. But I need parts, so I guess I join in and shop the new fashion way.