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Full-page shame-ads will probably not prove effective

Just say no to Amazon! That can mean saying no to a lower price, a better selection, a better return policy, no to convenience, to online consumer product reviews and no to home delivery.

The campaign “Just say no to Amazon” is much like trying to get people to stop shopping at the “big box stores” like Walmart or Costco back in the day. Not a realistic task. Times have changed and so have consumers. The purpose behind this campaign is to support local business, but customer shaming might not be the best way to go about it.

The recent full-page shame ads in The Maui News will probably not prove effective as a solution to the nationwide Amazon or online shopping epidemic, but it may serve to alienate local consumers. An alternative for The Maui News is to work with local retailers to find what is working locally and nationally. Provide the opportunity for a survey of both local businesses and their customers. Compare the data to other areas and make that information available to local businesses to draw on for ideas and support. Encourage all Maui businesses to re-examine their business plans and work with their customers in an “Amazon world.”

We believe a proactive, not reactive, approach by The Maui News to try and grow the local businesses would be equally beneficial. These businesses and their advertising dollars are the lifeblood of a local newspaper, and supporting them while not shaming the customers should be the goal.

Bob and Lis Richardson

Kihei

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