Originally Posted by Zebra2
According to Project 95, 95% of quilters do the majority of their spending at chain stores, leaving LQS survival dependent on the other 5%. To me, that is a scary statistic. Considering the quality, customer service, and educational opportunities that are available at LQS, the chain stores can't compete (except for the prices.) It's sad, but easy to see why LQS go out of business.
The 3/50 Project challenges folks to choose 3 independently owned business and spend $50/month at each.
I think that one aspect that is easy to forget, is that shopping local and supporting our independent business owners, boost local economy far better than shopping at chain stores. More of the tax money stays in your own community.
Something to think about . . .
WOW ... really surprised to see that kind of ratio ?! SURELY more than just 5% of us spend more at the thousands of LQS in the US - plus shops online. Quilting is a MULTI-BILLION $$$ industry, it's hard to believe that 95% of quilters spend mostly at chain stores vs LQS.
I used to work & teach at 2 LQS, and I'm lucky enough to have 4 shops within 30 min. and more beyond that. I always shop LQS first. 3 of the 4 shops near me have good sales and clearance fabrics. One does not - and seems to be hanging on "by a thread". We have a Joann's & HLobby but many of their fabric $ are just as high. Our LQS are holding prices at $9-9.50 max, most are still $9.
I hope that quilters continue to support our LQS through these tough times - however we can - for the service, the classes and social network they provide. You can't get that at the chain stores !! :)