So what do you think....

[sphelps]

Hmm I don't mean to be presumptuous but in all reality I would say the majority of successful business owner quit some sort of steady income to pursue something they were more passionate about. The best stores out there are a result from the owner putting everything they had into it. Not saying you haven't invested a lot but the reality is it's not your priority and these things tend to show in more ways than one. Limited store hours to begin with then unexpected closures already such a short time after being open. Personally unless I was your "buddy" I wouldn't put up with it and shop elsewhere for convenience. I mean in all reality what are you really offering that other stores don't? It's a competitive market place for sure, definitely no shortage of salt stores in Edmonton.

As far as the quarantine goes I don't think it's a matter of agreeing to disagree, pretty simple is it's not a quarantine procedure as it really does nothing for disease. While you might see benefit from fish already eating it really makes no difference unless the fish is known as a finicky eater and if that's the case time and effort is required to train them on frozen which you've made perfectly clear you don't have. Fish keeping 101 states don't buy a fish unless it's eating, you can do this at any store and you don't have to buy it if it's not eating. We have a store here that pulls the QT card all the time, it's quite obvious it's complete BS and it's annoying to hear and puts me and many others off the store while there are many others that fall for it only to later realize they've introduced disease into their tank. The point I'm making is the fact you advertise all your fish are quarantined suggests they are disease free which I think we have established not to be the case. It's something people talk about for sure and effects reputation.

[howdy20012002]

I think this thread as pretty much came to the end of its usefulness.
I never have stated my fish are disease free and ensure that my customers know that. if you have come to the store, you would be aware of this.
I do not agree with you on your argument on quarantine, i fully realize that is is not guaranteeing anything but it is still does offer some protection...but to each their own.

anyways, I am not getting into more debate about passion, lack of commitment etc... or the right and wrong of what I am doing.
Point blank, I am doing it and will not be stopping anytime soon.
I appreciate your concerns, and I will keep them in mind.
thanks
Neal

[Nano]

Well I for one can't wait to come check it out its always nice to have a variety of places to go to!

[howdy20012002]

yep it is nice to have a selection to choose from.
every store has their own "stuff" for everyone to gleam over.
which is all part of the fun of the hunt for that coral that needs to fill that hole in the corner of your tank.
looking forward to seeing you here...and the good thing is that Red Coral is only a 2 minute drive and is definitely worth that stop..Steve has lots of stuff to fill the gaps in our tanks as well(i have dozens of zoas from Steve over the last couple of years to help feed my Zoa addiction)
thanks
Neal

[Carandiru]

Ah awesome thread. I'm definitely gonna stop by this weekend if there isn't too much snow on the roads lol.

Really an opinion should perhaps only be justified after visiting the store.

[Reef Pilot]

With retail, it is about price, selection, quality and service. You can't be the best at all of them (and make a profit). But you need to choose what will bring your customers back. And be sure that none of them will be reasons for customers to never come back.

I was in retail my whole career, and it is a very tough business indeed. There are much easier ways to make money. But if you can get a loyal following, and figure out the right mix of products and volume that work, it can be very gratifying.

I wish we had a SW store in Langley with your passion and attitude. Your willingness and courage to solicit feedback is to be applauded. I hope it helps you to improve your business. Best of luck.