is there any computer retailer mom and pop store left?

[aircooled]

Intrex is a small chain in the Raleigh/Durham area. They are a custom builder and component seller that's made it through the boom and the bust. Ever since I found newegg I have rarely been in their store.

 

[z0mb13]

Originally posted by: dman
I don't think you can claim Dell is a Monopoly. Too much competition.

There's quite a few of the M&P Stores in S.FL (to add to the list). I think the question would be do mom and pop stores compete with Dell (and IBM, and Gateway, and HP/Compaq) on Price? And the answer is, if they do, they are probably scamming the customer in some form(just a hunch).

So you don't want to use those guys as proof that Dell isn't a monopoly? Why exactly?

What about places like MWAVE, NewEgg, and GoogleGear(with it's new name), with good customer service and great prices? They certainly compete with the big guys. Many folks here buy their parts from them and build their own systems instead of using Dell.

Mom&Pop stores are left being niche shops (service/convenience) mainly. But there IS a potential to build on that. Dell started out as a small operation out of a garage, IIRC. It just takes luck and hard work how much of each is left for you to decide.

I'd have to say the PC business is one of the most competitive businesses there is. And that's why it's difficult for a Mom&Pop store to succeed.



I think you should focus on something else...

Im using these other stores to ARGUE whether dell is a monopoly or not.... obviously I argue that dell is not a monopoly..

 

[00Jones]

Originally posted by: lager
Yes, it's called Gateway.

:Q

 

[EyeMWing]

I operate one. My chief maw and paw competition charges more than 10x what I do (and my prices are just a smidgeon over online retail) and still pushes K6-2's.

But they still get all the business (Probably because they have the cash to doll out to buy huge booths at those computer show/sale things).

It's sad, they have 3 kids that climb on top of bins of CPUs, they smoke in the workshop, have cats that run around and sleep in their customer's computers, etc.

But go upstairs and they've got giant HDTV's, tanks of exotic fish, etc, and his-and-her M5's in the driveway (and a box truck to haul their crap to the shows).

Anyway, the majority of my sales are actually international, not local. Who would've guessed? Heh.