'' Basically, "We make money with 1 or 2 employees but lose with 2 or 3." good morning , great post. Last week I wanted to buy new ears buds for my Apple phone, with a new design. They were 15$$ but, they were locked up, on the rack. After the WMT employee rang up three customers, I was fortunate , he was free so he could come to me and unlock my 15$$ item. I love the product so I'll order two more via Amazon. The Nike store near me was totally redesigned, a small area is under lock and key , and there is an armed security guard. Costco opened a new store about two years ago, so naturally that entire area has exploded, new apts and a beautiful open outdoor mall. Dollar Tree opened last month. It's very well stocked, the spacing is fine, let's see how it does? Net net, costs for retail brick and mortar keep rising, can price increases continue to overcome the inconvenience and the hassles? Btw, I'm 73 and I type with one finger. Take care.