Originally Posted by
Spoonrobot
I don't think the issues with Performance have much relevance to the LBS, in this specific instance. And really closing 40 stores is going to drive a fair chunk of business to LBS, I suspect a great portion will go to REI as they are often much closer to each other than to an LBS but still would expect to see a lot of customers convert to their LBS.
Interesting analysis. Your comments confirm the odd vibe I get from the Seattle store. All bikes and very little of anything else. A couple years back they consolidated the store to a smaller footprint and the repair shop suffered the most while all the racks of bikes stayed. And bikes there were perpetually 'on sale'. Other shops in the area (and there are many) seem to be reducing bike inventory and focusing on customer service instead. And then there is REI.
Too bad. I remember they and Nashbar being my favorite mail-order stores (pre-internet) BITD and I actually was excited to shop at the Chapel Hill store on a visit to the area.
Edit: Looks like the Seattle store didn't make the cut:
https://www.performancebike.com/shop/free-shipping