On 28/02/2018 12:13, Adrian Caspersz wrote:
On 28/02/18 10:59, John Smith wrote:
Looks like Maplin's going down - any regrets? I've found it a bit
pricey in recent years but it's good for kids gifts, cheap batteries,
and some bits you need urgently.

https://www.theguardian.com/business...-business-live


Recovery...

Shut half the shops.
Focus more on selling project stuff than items of instant enlightenment,
Remove all the shelves to the back, think argos/screwfix/toolsatan
Stretch a counter across the branch,
Enter a components distribution partnership with Farnell/CPC/RS,
Sponsor staff to take electronic/electrical training,
Support the maker community with competitive pricing,
Support the PC builder community with competitive pricing.

Don't turn into Tandy MkII

Much of that describes what it was like walking into the Westcliff shop
in 1980! A few things on display to look at. Loads of built up synth
kits / speakers / amps etc in the window, and a pair of (new and
exciting) Atari 400 / 800 computers surrounded by a swarm of kids trying
to get a look in. The rest of the shop packed with people waiting to be
served in a kind of "open all hours" shop environment - staff behind the
counter going off and collecting the bits of your order before
presenting it all in a taped up plastic bag at the end.


--
Cheers,

John.

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