This evening We went to a Large Department Store locally. I couldn't believe my eyes 40% off 50% off 60% off ALL Across the Isles. Every piece of merchandise in the PLACE Had a clearence SIGN. What was more interesting was NOONE WAS THERE. Closing at 10pm, we were there about 6pm & IT WAS LIKE THEY WERE CLOSED. Before I got into the store I could see the parking lot Was DESERTED!(btw we spent our wad $17.05)

Another interesting thing is that every INTERSECTION here has become a Used Vehicle LOT! Boats,Automobiles, Motorcycles etc. Cluttering the neighborhood. Stuff is coming out of the woodwork~ AND Surely will drive the prices DOWN & DOWN & DOWNNNNNNNNN.Glad I don't own an SUV (Stupid Ugly Vehicle). Soon you'll need a Mortgage to fill 1 up!

There is such a GLUT of unused vehicles that surely THE VALUE OF THINGS IS GOING TO PLUMMET!

Also I just purchased a Car Stereo Online after my LOCAL Dealer wouldn't bargain. (I saved $125) I wonder when I'll go by & he'll be closed? To ignorant to relize that his business RELIES ON THE CUSTOMER. ME!

After a recent trip to Montgomery Wards (dead) competition the big S store was still trying to sell me a SERVICE CONTRACT. I was amused, Wards indifference to customers needs & there persistant attitude of SELL the SERVICE at all costs may cost the BIG S retailer there business as well. When there so busy trying to sell you Contract PAPER & don't sell what the customer really needs, be it Washer, Dryer, Lawn Mower etc. All I can say is good luck.

Geno-Ca

-- Geno-Ca (headturbo@hotmail.com), April 11, 2001

Answers

Things aren't quite as bad yet where I live as they seem to be for you. What part of the country do you live in?

-- (Region@l.differences), April 11, 2001.

I have noticed less customers here in Northern N. J. as well.

I read that the Gap is closing stores in New York City as well.

-- K. (infosurf@yahoo.com), April 11, 2001.

No sign of a slow down in the Phoenix metro area. People are still shopping like its Christmas especially at Walmart. Restaurants are packed. Construction is booming. I think a small part of it is we don't pay huge heating bills during the winter so our pocketbooks aren't sapped by that huge expense.

I would be interested to know Geno-Ca, what part of the country you're talking about though.

-- Guy Daley (guydaley@altavista.com), April 11, 2001.