Originally Posted by Ed in GA 
The reality is that the internet itself is the primary cause that many 'Mom & Pop' camera stores are going out of business. They can't, or won't, compete with the pricing. Internet sales have also hurt companies such as Wolf/Ritz Camera. And that, coupled with the poor economy, is the issue.
While most retailers have reported poor sales for this Holiday season, Amazon.com says it has had its best year ever. That alone speaks volumes.
I don't know Ed. Maybe net sellers have hurt them some, but the B & M stores were slipping before in some areas. Tallahassee has the same B & M that has been in business for 50 or 60 years, they just don't do pentax unless you want to order at msrp. They also don't sell in used gear.
Ritz/Wolf/CameraWorld also have web stores which price things the same as their walking locations. However, their mall stores often have basic stuff.