Quote Originally Posted by davedove
The only benefit to those stores is being able to actually see and touch merchandise. But even then, you can examine the goods at the store, then go home and order them for less money.
This can actually be turned to the advantage of the store, though: remember "Miracle on 34th Street" where Macy's sent customers to other stores because they had lower prices, and customer loyalty was created as a result? I may not buy a kilt at the local Scottish store, but I would darn sure by other "kit" there if the store did something like that.

Quote Originally Posted by panache
The problem is that if the average person decides to make the plunge and get the complete highland outfit it is so expensive that they are only going to use this for special occassions. The thought of buying additional goodies to turn this into something they can enjoy more often won't occur to them because of the fabulously high cost. The higher the price, the less people will buy it, making the shop owner increase prices to make a better profit on those that do, etc. etc. I think it's interesting that most Scottish Shops don't seem to offer any alternative to the full 8 yard tank. It would probably attract a lot more buyers who would then get sucked in to what Southern Breeze sums up by saying "Welcome to the addiction". Heck they would wind up selling more tanks rather than less.
I think I should point out here that not everyone is out to wear a kilt 24-7, or as a casual garment. As someone pointed out, many customers of Scottish stores are buying items for "heritage" reasons, so the whole concept of a "casual" kilt to wear all the time may not be what they're looking for. And some of us don't mind spending higher prices if you get quality goods -- "you get what you pay for".

Cheers,

Todd