The results from the survey are as follows. First of all, the survey is limited by using a free service, so my responses are low. This blog is not monetized. I do this for fun, not as a “living”, so this research cannot be considered scientific. All the respondents use Local Fish Stores (LFS), one person skipped this question. Of those who use LFS, 50% use them 76-100% of the time. So, I interpret this to mean my readers use LFS as much as possible.
Most respondents travel 6-15 miles to their favorite LFS. No one travels over 25 miles, as I would suppose this is no longer “local”. I do find it interesting to know the range of what “local” means. The Metro Denver area is about 20 miles. Personally, I prefer the sole proprietor type businesses where the shopping experience is more intimate and informative. Since I live in Aurora, my LFS is Aquatic Dog or Nature’s Box Pet Emporium. Both stores are within 5 miles of me. As it turns out, these two stores are a few of the finest in the Metro.
Of the responses, About Fish got 4 mentions, Aqua Imports 3 mentions, and the rest got one mention each and include Aquatic Dog, Aqua Rocks, Rays Tank, Neptune’s, Fish Den and Pet Paradise (Pueblo). I cannot argue with these responses. All these stores are top notch, some for varying reasons. For instance, Aqua Rocks mainly does aquascaping and Rays Tank specializes in Monster Fish.
The future of the LFS seems good. The responses are mostly positive and I would agree. The LFS fills a niche in the market we all as hobbyists need. Even with the rise in Online Fish sellers, I for one would prefer going to a LFS and picking up my fish. The trip home is quick and easy, while being lower cost to the customer. As I have mentioned several times in my blog, most LFS will order fish for you if they can find them. This depends on their suppliers, season, and industry conditions. If the fish is worth having, it is worth waiting for.
I am pleased to see the majority of readers feel the LFS market is not over saturated. We have a lot of hobbyists in Colorado and thus the demand is high. Box stores serve their purpose and will remain, though with our voice the LFS will also remain and thrive!
Thanks to everyone who completed a survey. Next time I will find a platform which allows more respondents. With the winter weather we are having, it is doubtful I will get out this week, so it will be a bit longer before I post any more LFS updates.
Sequoia Elisabeth
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