Apparently, most modelers don't realize how tiny the markup is for the hobby shop owner on RC aeromodeling products. To top that off is the much too few RC aeromodeling customers he may have. If the shop tries to match mail-order, Just for an example, he makes a profit (dirty word for club members) of $6.00 on a Sig LT-40 kit. Something like many items that may collect dust because won't be intimidated into selling his stock at a loss.
It also depends on the number of flying clubs in his area and how many active (read: paying customers) those 2, more of less clubs may have. So, the member who comes in for a certain item and then is upset because it's not on the shop owner's shelves, may be the only customer who has ever asked for that item.
Anyone want to get into the retail RC hobby shop business?
Take care,
CCR
http://www.kites.org/rc_instructors