Originally Posted by
redtires
TPC is now a Specialized dealer. And Specialized just bought the "old" Pearl Izumi building...which is literally across the street from TPC. This is in a city of 22,000 people where there is also a locally owned LBS Spesh dealer....and they sell out of their "experience center hives". I can't help but think a 42 year old family business is about to get crushed unless they change brands.
On a broader level, if someone is shopping online, why would they buy a Specialized bike through TPC when they can buy that bike directly from Specialized- with service from their local dealer (if they want that)?
As an aside - Specialized has been supportive of our local race scene in Chicago and frequently offers up their two corporate stores (and staff) to help host and sponsor events for local clubs/teams. I generally want to hate the evil corporate overloads - but it hasn't been all bad here.