How badly does ‘upscale’ suffer in a tight economy?

Just a few short months ago you could find dozens of articles eviscerating McDonald’s and Walmart for their inability to reach today’s savvy, upscale consumers. Things sure can change in a manner of weeks. The recession has hit everyone hard, and we’ve done a complete 180. Now consumers are gravitating to no frills, low-cost venues. Earlier today, McDonald’s reported sales rose 5.1% in May.

I wonder…in this economic environment, does the low-key, mom-and-pop garden center have an edge over more polished, upscale garden centers? Do low-cost perceptions influence where consumers buy plants? What are you seeing in your part of the world? Leave us a comment below.

-- Sarah

Comments

[greg draiss]

Back To Basics!

No fancy fertilizers, no pie in the sky stuff. Just lots of veggie plants, herbs, annuals etc.

Greg Draiss

[GardenGuy]

I don't believe that it is so much the size of a company, or the outward visual appearance of a company as it is the combination of attitude and customer service of a company that both attracts and maintains a customer base. Cheap is cheap.
Quality of both the product and service are still an important value even in today's economy. Price points obviously factor in at some level, but consumers are still wanting a wonderful shopping experience. If you can still provide that at a low key center, congratulations.