I may not have special training as an economist, but after what Tim and I experienced this weekend, I may have an answer to the issues in our economy. Tim and I did a lot of work on our deck this weekend setting up a gazebo and putting together new furniture and we were really happy with the results, but...there was something missing. We wanted a water feature. We had seen a large fountain at Target which would look perfect in our new "outdoor living space" so we drove out to take another look. I took the little sticker off of the fountain display and scanned it. It showed that the fountain was on sale for $230 but that there were none in stock. After hunting down a salesperson (strike 1) we asked if we could buy the floor model. The salesman said that we couldn't buy the floor model unless the item was discontinued (strike 2). I asked if they could locate a fountain at another store. Unfortunately, the fountain was not available anywhere in Columbus, so I asked if we could possibly order it online. The salesman did a search (which was surprising given his lack of enthusiasm about helping us) and found that the item was not listed online at all to which he said "that's strange, I wonder why it isn't online. Well, I wish I could help you, but there's nothing I can do" (strike 3).
Apparently, Target has so much money that they would rather not bother with making a $230 sale. After our struggles at Target, Tim and I were really thirsty so we stop in at Panera to get something to drink. I spy large cups on the counter and think "man, I could go for a huge glass of lemonade" and proceed to order just that. Wouldn't you know, they can't sell me a large lemonade for some reason I can only get a medium "but you can get free refills!". Seriously? I am trying to spend an extra $0.50 or $1 to get a larger drink and they would rather give it away than just sell me a bigger size.
I may just be a humble consumer, but it seems to me that as a business, it is in your best interest to make the sale. When you let rules like how and when you can sell things, you ultimately frustrate your consumer and limit yourself. After a second failed attempt, at a different Target, to purchase the fountain, we ordered one online. It should arrive in 2 weeks. I'll post pictures when it comes in. :)
