Borders Books, RIP

[DMcFadden]

After looking at the zoo in our local borders with a line as long as the one for the latest blockbuster movie or at Best Buy on Black Friday, I wondered: Who would stand in line so long to pay more than you would online?

One small point. Theoretically, you are supposed to declare your online purchases on your California taxes. However, since little has been done to mandate a system of record keeping, it would need to be a VERY deep discount to get anything at a brick and mortar store in CA that would offset the nearly 10% (in some cities) sales tax. The same goes for online electronic purchases as well as books.

People talk about the "Walmart" affect on commerce. Has anyone done a decent study on the online factor? Amazon is a monster, and not just in the Kindle category.

 

[Edward]

And, who doesn't enjoy an occasional "I told you so"

What sale? Borders jacks up prices
A comparison of going-out-of-business prices at the bookseller with its prices the week before will shock you.
What sale? Borders jacks up prices- MSN Money

****WARNING**** Vulgarity in the comments at the link.

 

[PreservedKillick]

The Economist had an interesting online article about this. I think their proposed solution is goofy and has nothing to do with the free market newspaper they used to be, but their analysis of the problem is good. Basically, the demand is for public space to sip coffee and meet friends, and a big physical bookstore is a really inefficient way to go about this.

Borders and bankruptcy: Goodbye to bricks and mortar | The Economist

The above may be subscription only, I'm not sure.

---------- Post added at 09:20 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:18 PM ----------

Wow. Well, if there was any mystery why the company went under, there isn't anymore.

And, who doesn't enjoy an occasional "I told you so"

What sale? Borders jacks up prices
A comparison of going-out-of-business prices at the bookseller with its prices the week before will shock you.
What sale? Borders jacks up prices- MSN Money

****WARNING**** Vulgarity in the comments at the link.