Talked to a shop owner at a show in Central Arkansas about opening a shop. She said it took her 5 years until she realized a profit. She said shipping costs were a big factor in her purchasing of fabric. My limited experience buying on line is that it is more competitively priced than in a shop. Wal-Mart and Hancock's, Joann's can offer better pricing because of volume buying and diversification. Private shops have to rely on lessons, promotions, and machines and services beyond fabric to be profitable. I believe, when the economy is depressed, people cut back om non-essentials such as hobbies and antiques. More and more folks are dependent on technology and its convenience which puts a crimp in bricks and mortar retail. Personally, I think it is smart to buy where quality and pricing are beneficial to me.