There were articles related to this on how shopping and branding is shifting:
(1) An article about an Independent Bike Vendor that shifted its business model to an Independent Bike Services. They make their money primarily from servicing bikes, making recommendations. Releasing pressure from having to make their most revenue from selling bikes allows them to make the best recommendation for the biker. Bikers who buy direct from manufacturers will still want an expert to service their bikes.
(2) An article about Nike and some of the major brands shifting to a different business model where in-store shops are no longer distribution channels but rather marketing channels. These shops provide an in-person experience. They are paid by the overall revenue for the brand rather than what gets sold through the store. This aligns the incentive structure to what consumers are now doing: trying them on in a local store and then buying them online.
Where do small business owners fall into this? I don't know. Bikers and commuters tend to have a lot of attachment and affection for their bikes, and are willing to pay for services. Clothing in a department store, perhaps, not so much. Books? Toys?
(1) An article about an Independent Bike Vendor that shifted its business model to an Independent Bike Services. They make their money primarily from servicing bikes, making recommendations. Releasing pressure from having to make their most revenue from selling bikes allows them to make the best recommendation for the biker. Bikers who buy direct from manufacturers will still want an expert to service their bikes.
(2) An article about Nike and some of the major brands shifting to a different business model where in-store shops are no longer distribution channels but rather marketing channels. These shops provide an in-person experience. They are paid by the overall revenue for the brand rather than what gets sold through the store. This aligns the incentive structure to what consumers are now doing: trying them on in a local store and then buying them online.
Where do small business owners fall into this? I don't know. Bikers and commuters tend to have a lot of attachment and affection for their bikes, and are willing to pay for services. Clothing in a department store, perhaps, not so much. Books? Toys?