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Why Shoppers Choose Convenience Over Community
Buying a new home after 14 years was supposed to be exciting. I pictured myself wandering through stores, picking out light fixtures, rugs, furniture, and all the little treasures that make a house feel like home. I was determined to support local retailers and prove to myself that I didn’t need to rely on online shopping to create the perfect space.
But reality hit me hard.
At Lowe’s, I filled my cart with closet organizers, only to realize the products weren’t right. Frustrated, I abandoned the cart and ordered from Amazon instead. The shame stung, especially since my livelihood depends on retailers thriving. I tried again, this time looking for lighting fixtures at Home Depot. No one could help me, and when I finally found an associate, she suggested I order online because the selection was better. She even told me to check Amazon for ceiling covers. Disappointed, I left and swore I’d never return.
Ace Hardware gave me a glimmer of hope. Their staff was kind and helpful, though the selection wasn’t quite what I needed. Still, their service mattered, and I bought my paint there. It wasn’t a perfect color match, but I appreciated the effort. I thought The Container Store would reignite my excitement. Fourteen years ago, it was my go-to for organizers. But this time, the shelves were nearly empty. Once again, I left my cart behind and ordered from Amazon in the parking lot.
Decorating brought me to Ethan Allen, Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, and Restoration Hardware. When I was lucky enough to find someone to help me, I learned most items would take months to arrive due to tariffs and backorders. Ethan Allen had the best service but the slowest delivery. I ordered a table from them but turned to Amazon for the accessories and hardware I needed right away. I couldn’t help but miss the days when Circuit City could help me with TVs and stereos. Now I’m still searching for a place to buy a turntable.
I finally understand when people say, “I don’t shop in stores anymore. Amazon is easier.” And it is easier. The choices are endless, returns are simple, and packages arrive at the door of your home or office without fuss. Still, it breaks my heart. I used to get angry when friends brushed off local shops, but now, when store employees themselves are pointing me to Amazon, what choice do we really have?
The Harsh Reality of Retail
Brick-and-mortar stores are struggling, and many are losing the fight in today’s landscape of local retail and online shopping. Shopping centers seem destined to become service hubs instead: fitness studios, medical offices, nail salons, grocery stores, and restaurants. Meanwhile, tangible goods are moving almost entirely online.
My Final Thought
This adventure has been a wake-up call. I will continue to do what I can to support local businesses, but I also realize that the retail world I once knew has changed forever. Maybe the future lies in a hybrid approach, where local retailers and online shopping merge community-driven service with digital convenience.
Because if we’re not careful, one day we’ll wake up to a world where Amazon isn’t just an option. It’s the only option.
Your Turn
I know I’m not alone in this. Have you had similar struggles with trying to shop local? Do you find yourself giving up and going online out of frustration? I’d love to hear your stories, your shopping woes, and even your small victories when you’ve found a local store that got it right. Share them with me—I want to know how you’re navigating this strange new retail world. Let’s talk!
AUTHOR
Kim Kelley, Marketing Guru
Kim Kelley is the Principal at Creative Marketing Arts. With over 30 years in the Shopping Center industry, Kim offers creative ideas blended perfectly for REIT Advertising and Marketing. With an eye for perfection and creative flair, Kim offers all clients Out of the Box solutions.