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Old 05-31-2018, 10:32 AM   #6
Shrew
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City: Westerly, RI
Vessel Name: N/A
Vessel Model: 1999 Mainship 350 Trawler
Join Date: Jan 2014
Posts: 4,154
Interesting read. We've noticed changes both good and bad. The staff seems to have a much stronger presence (at least in our area). Sometimes acting like personal shoppers. 10 years ago, you'd find staff only at the registers and one or two stocking shelves if you were lucky. Now I get asked at least three times if I'm finding everything ok. (Maybe I'm starting to get that 'confused guy' look as I get older).

What we haven't appreciated is the move from boat parts to merchandise. Half the store is clothing now. While the selection of items dwindles. You have to ask yourself why the shoe section is larger than the plumbing or electrical sections.

Years ago when I used to climb and backpack, Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) was a climbing and hiking store. It too moved over to clothing. Now EMS is closing more stores than opening them. I hope WM is waking up.
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