We still have milk delivered by the milkman. We don't actually use much milk, half of it going down the sink, and it is more expensive than at the supermarket. However it keeps the milkman in a job and keeps the round going so enabling him to deliver to those who can't get out, provide a social service to those might not see anyone else during the week, and keep an eye on frail customers (unused milk building up on the doorstep is a sign of problems).
So I agree it's not just about getting the best price, as that can work out more expensive in the longer term, either in actual money or in social value. If you want to be able to go to fondle the latest camera at your local store in a few years time, support them now. Nick -----Original Message----- From: "frank theriault"<[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: 26/04/05 03:17:21 That's a personal decision. If the positives of spending more (more personalized service, keeping local retailers and possibly wholesalers in business, generally making the downtown business area of a given town or city more lively by keeping those businesses alive, etc.) are outweighed by price in your mind, then that's fair enough. Buy cheaper. It's your prerogative in a capitalist society; you need not justify it. Just know that there may be consequences; if they aren' t important to you, then that's the end of the discussion.