Taking online prices to brick and mortar shop
 

I'm interested in knowing your thoughts on a consumer who is buying a big ticket item (e.g., a boat, an engagement ring, a home theater system), and first does research online to come up with a model and price, and then takes that information to a local, independent store to ask them if they would like to match that.

Is this appropriate? I'm going to be purchasing something soon, and I'd like to do this. On one hand, I know I can find a good price and product online, but on the other hand, I would like to support a local business.

I'm worried this might come off as rude, though, or appear like a cheapskate or too demanding.

Who cares how it comes off? I'd tell them exactly what you've told us, and that you'd like to support local, but not at the expense of throwing money away. They can make a choice from there.

Not if you approach it the right way. Tell them that you really want to keep your money local and would like to give them a chance to win the business.

I care how I come off because I want to build a positive relationship with the store/community.

Should I come in with my research and price and just lay it in front of them?

Unless the local business is owned by your in-law's who cares?

If you want to buy an engagement ring online. I have a bridge I can sell you.

I think I understand where you're coming from. Expect them to do the same regarding your rates should they ever need your services. Either pay their price, or buy it elsewhere.

Bad experience to share?

I actually do expect this in future encounters to me. For instance, with LegalZoom, you can set up your own will for about $70. I need (and have) good reasons why I should cost double that.

But, for a product, it's a bit different, because whereas the legal industry is about service and adaptability and answer questions (and liability insurance for malpractice), the product is the product no matter where you get it.

But should something happen with the product, what kind of service will you receive from an online store? How much hassle would there be regarding a return? How much longer would you have to wait to receive it, and if you do need to return, how much longer until you receive a new one? This goes both ways. Local business is going to give you better service, and take better care of you. Just as you will with someone over LegalZoom.

I do this with contact lenses. My optometrist is happy to beat the best online price. My lenses are some of the most expensive and the online price beats her normal price by 60%. She obviously makes a killing on people that don't shop around.

All very good points to consider. It's another reason why I prefer local business (as well as the building relationships/community aspect).

It's also why I wouldn't mind paying a slightly higher price locally. But like you said, "not throwing money away."

I tried to get barnes and noble to price match their own website at the town center location and they refused to sell me the book at the online price.

pricks.

good luck though

Yeah, I just think you should really examine what that point is because if not presented perfectly you'll just look like another asshole lawyer. I wouldn't go near it over a hundred bucks or two, but if it was much higher than that I would just buy it somewhere else. I wouldn't even try to haggle too much. I don't see how you can win this to be honest. Morally you're in the right place, but you gain to lose more than money here.

Well, there's no doubt store-wide policy that doesn't allow for much flexibility. I figure with an independent local store, there is more.