I'm definitely one of those "shop local not chain (but then still go to the chain if they have what I want for cheaper)" guys. I always tried to do business with local places instead of GC. But GC used to be great, and the local places went out of business. Now GC is going downhill and local places are springing up again.
I am a professional touring and session musician. GC used to have what I needed and had knowledgeable staff. Ever since they moved to Middleton, they have shifted their focus from experienced musicians to soccer moms and beginners. I FULLY SUPPORT new musicians and their parents encouraging them, but if any of them progress beyond beginner status, they too will need somewhere to shop.
The last manager (Josey? Josie? something like that) forced out the few really knowledgeable sales guys who I trusted completely so I stopped going altogether. The new manager (Andrew) has been there for years in one position or another, and he's always been helpful and supportive of myself and other professional musicians that have come in to shop, so I'm hoping he can turn the store around. But I'm skeptical, he cant override Ryan at Corporate (Dunder Mifflin Infinity).
What I'd like to see is GC maintain a presence for both beginner and non beginner musicians without forcing out the local stores. I'm sure that's impossible. But a musician can dream.