Speaking to all kinds of people from all walks of life and all types of jobs (including our industry professionals), this unprecedented bear of an economy that now exists is REAL. According to what others are telling us, people are waiting longer to make decisions, cutting back or afraid to spend, and generally reluctant to make commitments. Retail is suffering, and industry is hurting. Have people lost faith in the institution of quality and professionalism, only to settle for mediocrity?
I have stock in McDonald’s and glad to see they’re doing better, but is this a function of the new “taste” of the American public? Based on their perceived economic situation. it’s sad to think that people regard this as ‘good enough’, instead of enjoying the experience of a truly great meal. Imagine if people took this same tact when researching or visiting their physician? There are few things that can replace the “experience”, peace of mind, and joy of a quality product and service.
Thankfully, our business is maintaining a steady keel. We are blessed with great clients. Maybe because we produce a nice product. We’d like to think that people like us. But maybe, just, maybe, it’s because we care.
-John