MojoLists

Best Buy has been a part of my life for a long time, not because they always had the best prices or even the best selection. I could count on them to have most of the little computer parts, electronic accessories and other bits and pieces I needed, which made them handy when I was already on my way to pick up a new DVD.

In the last two months this has changed, they have cut way back on the computer parts they sell, even the electronics area, with the HDTV's, DVD and Blu-Ray players seem to be short on selection and inventory of many items they do stock.

Out of stock on popular movies is more common than in the past and I have walked out empty handed several times now when I had a fairly long list or purchases with me. I didn't cry when Circuit City went under, I never really forgave them for supporting DiVX in the early days of DVD and they were my last resort for purchasing.

I guess I should have mourned the loss from the beginning, I certainly am now. Best Buy and the other competition have for the most part decreased their weekly sales on movies and music. I am also seeing an increase in release week pricing across the board. I know times are tough but is it really wise to begin alienating your core customer base. I spend thousands a year in Best Buy but lately all of my money has been going to Fry's.

Fry's has always had a great selection of everything, I always know I am going to find even the most obscure computer part, movie or electronic adapter. It is just a hassle to get in and out, not because they are slow but because I can't help but wander the aisles to see what's new, on sale, or just plain cool.

I know Best Buy (Target has also followed suit but has never been on my go to list) feels a lot safer with Circuit City out of the way but they should be more worried about their core customers. I am already debating on whether to hit Fry's to pick up the latest James Bond because I also need an IDE to SATA adapter, something Best Buy is unlikely to carry anymore.