Group Orders

[robalv]

Why don't we go through our LFS first and give them a chance to try and match or beat a particular item. It seems to me that saving a couple of bucks just doesn't make a hole lot of sense when we have these guys to back us up when we need them. Buying a lot of merchandise to get free shipping is cool and all but like I said if we don't ask we won't know. JUST A THOUGHT..

[Gseclipse02]

i have done this but it seems most want the best deal they can get

some of these places we do group orders with are sponsors

[robalv]

Yes, they may be sponsors but they are not local, I just think we should give them a chance before going out of our local support. They are here for us we should be here for them. Now if they can not come close to a price then I understand going somewhere else, I think they would like a chance to earn our support is all.
Thank you for your input.
Rob

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

Sending pm.....

[corkyGramma]

I respect your point of view, but some of the livestock we get in from online sources are collectors items which you will not find in town. And secondly this hobby is not cheap-ask anyone its not just a couple bucks you are saving. Its a full time job keeping up the needs of our tanks and some have much larger systems. I can only speak for myself but I need to spread out my reasources to provide the best care for my animals.
I don't think there is anyone here that does not "partner up" with lfs, and do give them a chance-but they do have limitations.

[robalv]

Thank you all I just like to stir the pot...lol all good points and I do agree
With all of you.

[Mr Cob]

I also respect your point of view but I think you are assuming that most maastards don't already support our LFS...and that is DEAD WRONG!!! I see MAASTARDS in our LFS all the time!!!

Also, you are overlooking the fact that a lot of our sponsors became sponsors because of our group orders!!!

[robalv]

I think I should clarify myself I seem to be misunderstood I simply meant that on a group order as let's say for example frag plugs why not ask a LFS if they can get a special price for a big purchase.

[Mr Cob]

I think I should clarify myself I seem to be misunderstood I simply meant that on a group order as let's say for example frag plugs why not ask a LFS if they can get a special price for a big purchase.

That's a little different then your initial post and I can see the reasoning behind this suggestion.

So, maybe you should take the lead on a group order. I think we all prefer to support our MAAST sponsors.

[BIGBIRD123]

I don't believe there is anyone that can say I don't support the LFS...but sometimes our group orders are larger than the LFS can handle. For some of the LFS to handle some orders, they would have to purchase above and beyond our order and most would not be able to do that. I agree, we should try and let them handle as much as possible but sometimes it's just not feasible.

[JTrott]

I agree with robalv that LFS should get FIRST shot at group orders. Doing group orders for food to save $1 per order is silly. Why not talk to a LFS and see if they can match or maybe even beat the price? There are a couple of stores on here that are sponsors, that get looked over when it comes to group orders. It does not matter what store you go to, whether it be AD, AA, Gabe's, TT, B&B, Critter Shop, they should each get a shot at your order before it is taken online to another city/state. It is only fair to offer it to them since they are here for us when we have problems. From looking at old posts, I have very rarely seen an online vendor come on and address you concerns, but when you do have a concern, you can ALWAYS go to a LFS..........

[Mr Cob]

I disagree.

We should support ALL of our Sponsors, not just the local ones, otherwise...why would an online vendor want to sponsor us?

[Gseclipse02]

I think I should clarify myself I seem to be misunderstood I simply meant that on a group order as let's say for example frag plugs why not ask a LFS if they can get a special price for a big purchase.

i looked into this and i would rather give a LFS the sale but i asked around and what not found one store who has them but they are moving right now another who wanted a dollar for each one (that's way to much IMO) as appose to me being able to get them for .23 -.30 cents each plus shipping


I agree with robalv that LFS should get FIRST shot at group orders. Doing group orders for food to save $1 per order is silly. Why not talk to a LFS and see if they can match or maybe even beat the price? There are a couple of stores on here that are sponsors, that get looked over when it comes to group orders. It does not matter what store you go to, whether it be AD, AA, Gabe's, TT, B&B, Critter Shop, they should each get a shot at your order before it is taken online to another city/state. It is only fair to offer it to them since they are here for us when we have problems. From looking at old posts, I have very rarely seen an online vendor come on and address you concerns, but when you do have a concern, you can ALWAYS go to a LFS..........


i had talked to gabe about this and i know he is more then willing to do the food orders for us


I disagree.

We should support ALL of our Sponsors, not just the local ones, otherwise...why would an online vendor want to sponsor us?
:thumbs_up:

[Mr Cob]

By the way....I need frag plugs...Julian...did I miss a group order for this?

[Gseclipse02]

By the way....I need frag plugs...Julian...did I miss a group order for this?


no i made a thread about getting some never did tho ... im in for ordering some but i want them be the ones that fit in the egg crate squares

[Mr Cob]

Yeah, same here. I don't want any flat ones.

[subsailor]

i looked into this and i would rather give a LFS the sale but i asked around and what not found one store who has them but they are moving right now another who wanted a dollar for each one (that's way to much IMO) as appose to me being able to get them for .23 -.30 cents each plus shipping

I know of four different stores that would be willing to do an order for frag your price Range. the same thing can be said for both food and salt as most people that order that online go through Dr foster smith and they are not a sponsor. We should support all of our sponsors, but I also believe in supporting the local economy when it is something an LFS can get in the price range. Most of the internet stuff is out there for specialty livestock and equipment that LFS don't carry

[robalv]

With all do respect, Lets keep on topic Please. JK lol... I always wanted to say that.

[Gseclipse02]

what gets me at times i wish that stores would speak up at times people post they want something they should try to offer you know ...

like when i was rebuilding my tank i had set aside money i was willing to spend on the tank.... i wish a store would have been like hey if we can make you a great deal on the live stock would you be willing to give us all your business for the rebuild

that would have been great but now im wishing




I know of four different stores that would be willing to do an order for frag your price Range. the same thing can be said for both food and salt as most people that order that online go through Dr foster smith and they are not a sponsor. We should support all of our sponsors, but I also believe in supporting the local economy when it is something an LFS can get in the price range. Most of the internet stuff is out there for specialty livestock and equipment that LFS don't carry

i tried some and even offered to buy several bags if need be i just dont like to pay a high prices i refuse to

[robalv]

I used frag plugs as an example guys by no means is thread about frag plugs.
I agree with Gseclipse our LFS should chime in with what they think.

[Neptune@gabesfish]

like when i was rebuilding my tank i had set aside money i was willing to spend on the tank.... i wish a store would have been like hey if we can make you a great deal on the live stock would you be willing to give us all your business for the rebuild

that would have been great but now im wishing

First off, I would like to say that I speak for myself.....and no other store/sponsors from this site. This is MY take on it. JT, you just happened to say exactly the wrong thing. No offense.

Most, if not all LFS sponsors, offer all MAAST members, whether charter or web members discounts. We, Gabe's Fish & Exotic Pets, offer 25% off ALL SALTWATER LIVESTOCK on a DAILY basis to ALL forum members. For you to say that you want a BIGGER discount is insane. If I remember correctly, and please correct me if I am wrong, when you were rebuilding you tank, we let you know, that we would help you in any way. That does not mean cheap/next to free stuff.

Most merchandise is discounted 15% and frozen is discounted 15% as well. If I know that y'all are doing a GROUP ORDER I have offered food at up to 30% off, look back in my subforum. It was around the time of the last food group order.

One of the major reasons that all the LFS are here is a.) because we enjoy the hobby, and want to share our experience, whether negative or positive with other who enjoy the same hobby and b.) we enjoy the people who come along with the hobby. We will be here when you have problems to help you figure them out because that is what we, as LFS do.

I think that member need to understand that this is a business to most of us. Our families eat/live off of our businesses, and when members do not support their LFS because something is $0.50 cheaper online, my family "starves". Some of you with jobs that have been outsourced to India know what I mean. Same principle.

Without the support of local members LFS will not be around. When we are not around, you will have to wait weeks to receive you products, and live rock.........forget about it.

I as sorry if some members take offense to this. JT, I am deeply sorry for pointing out YOUR post, but I did. Again, this is MY opinion, not that of ALL LFS.

Thanks for your time,
Gabe

[Mr Cob]

Wow! Did not know you offerred such a discount Gabe. That's AWESOME! Guess I'll have to make some time to get out there!

P.S. You opened up a can of worms now. LOL!

Gonna go grab some popcorn...

[Neptune@gabesfish]

Kettle Corn or Movie Butter we have both let me know..

[Pennies2Cents]

What about Carmel Popcorn!

[Mr Cob]

LOL! Sorry Robalv...for getting off subject. K-back to the movie...

[robalv]

Lol

[Neptune@gabesfish]

SHHH!! No talking Rob (both of you) I'm waiting for the good part of the movie...

[JTrott]

I am getting up and walking out.....this movie is boring.......

[Gseclipse02]

First off, I would like to say that I speak for myself.....and no other store/sponsors from this site. This is MY take on it. JT, you just happened to say exactly the wrong thing. No offense.

Most, if not all LFS sponsors, offer all MAAST members, whether charter or web members discounts. We, Gabe's Fish & Exotic Pets, offer 25% off ALL SALTWATER LIVESTOCK on a DAILY basis to ALL forum members. For you to say that you want a BIGGER discount is insane. If I remember correctly, and please correct me if I am wrong, when you were rebuilding you tank, we let you know, that we would help you in any way. That does not mean cheap/next to free stuff.

I as sorry if some members take offense to this. JT, I am deeply sorry for pointing out YOUR post, but I did. Again, this is MY opinion, not that of ALL LFS.

Thanks for your time,
Gabe


yes u did offer to lend a helping hand/ gave advice on what i should do when i was putting the tank back up :thumbs_up:

i dont go and do group orders to save .50 generally its a huge savings or stuff that LFS dont carry

i never asked for "cheap/next to free stuff" but im not made of money lol i chose to do most of my shopping at 2 other stores due to them having what i wanted at a great price that most dont touch

but with that said i love most of the stores in SA they all tend to carry different items some times things are out of my spending limits but ill still be a window shopper and if i am to tempted ill just buy it

[Neptune@gabesfish]

This topic is origionally about group orders........so in closing, the last thing I will say is that I would like an opportunity to match or beat any price that you can find. Afterall, it is all about saving money. ;)

Gabe

[jrsatx20]

how bout group order on beer. ive been up there countless times just to hang out and talk n taking beer each time getting expensive. any takers

[robalv]

Now that is what I am talking about!

[corkyGramma]

Wow! Did not know you offerred such a discount Gabe. That's AWESOME! Guess I'll have to make some time to get out there!

P.S. You opened up a can of worms now. LOL!

Gonna go grab some popcorn...

:bigsmile:Me too. Gabe I came and bought some salt from you, didnt know about the 25% off livestock!

[moe]

wow I guess I got to check this place out

[jrsatx20]

hey moe tell him ruben sent u and he will give u 25% off livestock. dont tell n e one.

[robalv]

I thought I was the only one who got 25% discount Gabe.
Oh well..

[Neptune@gabesfish]

You are Rob they are just teasing you...LOL

[corkyGramma]

JT, you just happened to say exactly the wrong thing. No offense.

***
He may have said something touchy but you misunderstand where he's coming from. A few months ago I suggested a group order on reef crystals...after I missed the one in Dec that came out to $34 a bucket! Not chump change! Gseclipse said "I'd rather go through a lfs," and called you to see if we could arrange a group order through your shop (we didn't get enough takers). Sooo...I eventually ran out of salt, and after you posted your everyday price on salt- I made my first visit.

Guys, Gabe has a very nice store :wink_smile:

[Big_Pun]

i thought i was the only one, man i left you extra limes , any left might stop by :)

[Neptune@gabesfish]

i thought i was the only one, man i left you extra limes , any left might stop by :)

They are still here for you man......

[corkyGramma]

Ha! Looks like you all have competition on those cherry corals!:D

[Mr Cob]

I checked them out today! Awesome! Thanks, Gabe and Jason!

and just so my post is on topic...Group Orders...it started off to be a good movie....LOL!

[robalv]

Thanks Gabe I was getting jealous