This is a publicity stunt, pure and simple. The whole point of showrooming is to find the product that works best for you—a concept that works much better in pe

This is a publicity stunt, pure and simple. The whole point of showrooming is to find the product that works best for you—a concept that works much better in person—then seeking to find the best price. The internet has made this easier than ever, but it's always happened. Note that I've totally reverse-showroomed Amazon: looked up reviews and alternatives, then found the lowest price somewhere else. Amazon doesn't care because the cost to showroom is minuscule, and very often they win the price war. The sale is all that counts. Independent retailers care because they have become commoditized: it's a not-insignificant cost to showroom, and they're never the cheapest price. I love local shops, but it only works if there's something unique on offer. That perfect espresso, the unique letter-pressed greeting card—I can't get these anywhere else.