Sophistication vs. sales

[Barry H]

It appears that most all the participants at BladeForums have a very good handle on modern knife technology and marketing. Every one has favorites and knows how to get what they want! And based on what I have seen, people here are paying a whole lot less than the folks that shop at the knive store at the mall. How big is the knive business? What percentage of sales is done on the internet compared to typical retail venues? Do most internet shoppers tend to expect to pay alot less for their knives? Why do most retail stores at malls sell only at retail price? They must be selling, every time I walk through any of the Cutlery Stores (national chain?) they are half full of knives.
Any way, curiosity killed the cat...
Thanks for any wisdom...
Barry H.

 

[Jeff Clark]

Space in a mall costs a lot of money. The knives there have to cost full retail. It's also expensive to keep stock on hand, many internet dealers don't keep much stock. The brick and morter stores give you a chance to touch the product and walk home with it. This has a lot of value. They also do a lot of gift trade. This is where the salesman can earn his keep, by advising friends and spouses. If you aren't real familiar with the products you are less likely to buy on the net.