the sucking aquarium
Printed From: Utah Reefs
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Forum Name: General Discussion
Forum Description: Posts that don't fit in any of the other categories.
URL: http://www.utahreefs.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=24923
Printed Date: May 28 2025 at 10:42pm
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Topic: the sucking aquarium
Posted By: shaddowwalk
Subject: the sucking aquarium
Date Posted: April 02 2008 at 11:31pm
| The aquarium sucks! "Oh, we're 'high end'" uh huh, LOL all that means is they find the most expensive crap, (that doesn't work any better) and charge top dollar!! They dont quarenteen their fish, and some of their employees are kids that don't know what their talking about. We are all better off going with Bird World and eachother! |
Replies:
Posted By: RockStarFish
Date Posted: April 02 2008 at 11:36pm
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I take it you had a good visit to th aquarium P.S. wrong forum |
Posted By: Bigayal
Date Posted: April 02 2008 at 11:37pm
| well, true on everything, but occasionally they have stuff that isn't available anywhere else. Competition usually breeds better quality or better prices.....What would be really sweet would be to have a UtahReefs store, that sells everything AT COST!!!! So people can get into the hobby at good prices. Im sure there are enough people in the presidency with connections to make something like this happen |
Posted By: Debbles
Date Posted: April 02 2008 at 11:45pm
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I personally think every LFS we have has something great to offer. We never shop at just one. We go to Fish 4 U for one thing, Bird World for another, The aquarium for something else etc..... The WMAS is not here to put our LFS's out of business. Of coarse it would be great to buy EVERYTHING in life at wholesale but that is not how life is. It would not be cost or time effective to have a UtahReefs store. Without our LFS's many of us wouldn't have our tanks.
http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZNxdm824MSUS">
 Deb  ------------- Yes Mikey...I still have fins!!! |
Posted By: BobC63
Date Posted: April 02 2008 at 11:57pm
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Shadow:
My experiences with the folks over at The Aquarium have all been positive ones
I don't know of any LFS that truly "QTs" their livestock the way a home hobbyist would - as a former LFS employee I can tell you it isn't practical on a large scale... BTW, I was a "kid" at the time and was more knowledgable on the subject than most of the adults who came in the store
 I do agree they are not the least expensive option for local hobbysists
I am sorry you had an unpleasant experience with them. Have you approached the ownership to try to straighten the issue out?
------------- - My Current Tank: 65g Starfire (sitting empty for 2+ years) - * Marine & Reef tanks since 1977 * |
Posted By: cl2ysta1
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 12:28am
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i like going there. They seem to always have evereything in stock and somehting to look at. That doesn't mean that most hobbyists can afford the livestock they have to offer, but they do have a cheap frag tank which I frequent and everyonce in a while I find something. Like an exquisite wrasse for 30.00, and a mated pair of pink skunks for 30.00 ;) Its about being a bargain shopper. Plus they carry like every replacement part ever! ------------- I <3 Boxers Achilles tang lover |
Posted By: Mike Savage
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 7:43am
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I happen to like The Aquarium and have had good experiences from many of their employees over the years. I will continue to shop there and continue to research my purchases beforehand too.
Mike -------------  |
Posted By: freetibet
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 8:08am
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i went there last week and i was in the store for about 15 mins and noone was there at all. no employee nothin, i was about to leave after 15 mins of but as soon as i was about to walk out someone comes out from the back after 15 mins of looking for help.. still bought 4 fishes but thats my last time going there.. ------------- 40 breeder, TEK T5 6x39 7 months Quote by Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama "My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness." Salt lake city,Ut |
Posted By: chris.rogers
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 8:30am
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Sometimes they're busy, but other times help abounds.
I actually have picked up several good frags there. For a store that's "expensive," they have a great selection of $10 to $20 frags. I'll continue to shop there, as well as many other stores in the Salt Lake valley.
I'm just waiting for someone to set up shop in Cache Valley.  ------------- Ils sont fous, ces Romains! |
Posted By: Jeff Morrill
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 8:34am
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I understand the "high end" Issue all to well. I think you have a solid argument on the triple the price thing. Understand over head, Under stand the High End. My 2 cents.
Welcome to the board SHADOW Bout time. ------------- WHAT KINDA GUM????... Give em 2 sticks. |
Posted By: jessedidthis
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 9:42am
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There are good and bad things about every local fish store. Marine Aquatics has been closed when I have gone there but usually have good prices. Fish-4-U needs a remodel but they give great advice and don't let you buy things unless your tank is ready. Aquatica is waaaay far away but has great help, prices, and selection. As far as the aquarium goes. I have received some good help from some of the employees at the Aquarium. I've also purchased many frags at great prices. I've been able to purchase chemicals, test kits, and parts on sunday evening. The store is always clean, doesn't stink, and they have some great display tanks. The management at the Aquarium has always been cool to me. I've also received zero help when the store was empty. Fresh water section is limited at best. I also got a parasite from an $8 socofoli cichlid from the Aquarium. Anyone can buy almost anything wholesale, you just have to buy enough of them. There is a store in draper called Tropical Fish Wholesale. They don't have any salt water live stock yet, but I know they are planning on getting it. Maybe check it out. ------------- Jesse Stewart |
Posted By: larhalli
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 10:09am
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I agree in part with many of the above posts. I love the Aquarium. They have a very nice store, great display tanks. They once in a while have the best prices on large tanks as well. I have had a hard time on many occasions trying to find someone to help me as many have mentioned. They have lost many sales from this I am sure. I never had a problem in their old store with getting help. If I were the owner I think I would worry about product walking out of the store while no one was on watch. That too could be a reason for high prices on stuff they do sell.
------------- Larry Halliday West Jordan |
Posted By: unixnum1
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 10:12am
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I like "The Aquarium". I know their prices are higher but I always enjoy browsing their clean store and cheerful employees. I agree that some of the younger ones are not very knowledgable but the fab 4 are very helpful. Every once in awhile they have good deals on stuff. ------------- 220G with 30G sump, SPS/LPS. RoboTank Controller. ===================================== why am I always the stem? 
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Posted By: rebekwl
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 10:19am
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[QUOTE=unixnum1]I like "The Aquarium". I know their prices are higher but I always enjoy browsing their clean store and cheerful employees. I agree that some of the younger ones are not very knowledgable but the fab 4 are very helpful. Every once in awhile they have good deals on stuff. [/QUOTE I agree totally. ------------- 92 corner w/ 30 gal sump Mantis tank coming soon "Ain't nobody got Time for that" |
Posted By: firefighter6681
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 10:34am
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I have not been there yet and might go take a look now. There is not to many stores up north. I think your going to find kids though in most stores unless they are a smaller stores. Over head is hard because we all check the pricing of items on the net and they don't have the over head a LFS does. Welcome to WMAS ------------- 65 Gallon and just getting started again after over year break. |
Posted By: CrimsRayne
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 11:00am
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I like going to the aquarium. There are things I don't like about them, but that goes with everything. My opinion is do your research! Know what you are looking at. Only then can you say if it is or isn't worth the price. I've seen a lot of things that were double what I'd seen them for elsewhere and I've seen things that were half what I'd seen elsewhere. I too LOVE the frag tanks. There aren't any other LFS that have such a great bargain selection.
Finally, if they have something that you really like and you're willing to pay what they ask, who cares if you could have picked up something similar for less money. If you are happy with the purchase that's all that matters to me. ------------- "What we know from this hobby is too hard to share with the people who just want to look and not get wet." -Rioreefer "The Puffer Girl" Zoo freak :) West Jordan |
Posted By: acromacromonti
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 11:01am
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Dont do trade IN's!!!! thats all my advice that I can give about the aquarium, And dont talk to the Baby children they have working there they are the most un intelligent youngsters that dont know a wrasse from a chromis, Better luck just taking a fish book when your shopping for fish or a coral book when shopping for coral.
Cheech
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Posted By: chris.rogers
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 11:13am
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Go easy on the kids, sheesh. Would you rather have teams of highly trained and educated professionals work there?
Wouldn't they require higher pay? Aren't their 'high' prices already complained about? ------------- Ils sont fous, ces Romains! |
Posted By: fishman90G
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 11:36am
| good golly miss molly. touchy touchy subject we have here lol. i am particular to "aquatica". i have been to the aquarium and bought an $1100 light fixture lol i also went there and bought nmerous frags in the 10-20 section. so far everything is doing excellent but i take no chances wih livestock i always drip my stuff from snails to corals to fish. that is what shawn has taught me without him actually teaching me. ive been in there numerous times after he recieved a shipment and watched him drag out 40-50 buckets for dripping. i am faithful to aquatica like im faithfull to my wife. it is more than prices which his are the among the best and it is more than the quality of his fish and corals, it is the friendliness you get from him. can anyone honestly tell me theyve ever seen the owner of "the aquarium" out and about greeting and helping potential clients? if so, how often? anyways presidency is right, a utahreefs LFS is not a prctical idea in my eyes. unless they put that LFS on the internet only or put 4 wheels under it. the club is too big and people like me wouldnt drive to timbucktoo every week. i also agree with them about the topic, you cant with a good heart come on to utah reefs and try to put them out of business. if you dont like "the aquarium" dont shop there simple as that. thats what i do. i am planning on buying some stuff like one of those rotating wavemaker things for 180 but as far as livestock goes if i shop for corals there again ill just stick with the 10-20 frags section. |
Posted By: unixnum1
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 11:41am
I am going easy on them, we all have to start somewhere, unfortunately they do seem to have a high turn over rate which I guess is true of all younger job positions.
Why don't you do trade ins with them? I haven't done trade ins with them for quite awhile. ------------- 220G with 30G sump, SPS/LPS. RoboTank Controller. ===================================== why am I always the stem?
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Posted By: Adam Blundell
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 11:45am
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I happily shop at the Aquarium. Great place if you ask me.
Adam ------------- Come to a meeting, they�re fun! |
Posted By: fishman90G
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 11:46am
| i like walking through there like it was a museum. |
Posted By: chris.rogers
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 12:32pm
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Ah, the virtual elephant in the virtual room. How does one complain about a bad experience of a local store that many of us frequent and are loyal to?
The answer:
If you must complain, do so tactfully and tastfully. ------------- Ils sont fous, ces Romains! |
Posted By: fishman90G
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 12:53pm
| i second that motion because even though i dont like their prices and think they the customer service isnt the best since the last time i was there i was being helped and the employee told me to hold on so he could help a "regular" that had shown up after i did so i was there first. but yes complaints must be written as tactfully and tastyfully as possible as to not offend the members here that like the store and have had nothing but good experiences there. i know people that have had good experiences t "the aquarium" and bad ones at "aquatica". |
Posted By: Will Spencer
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 1:07pm
| I think every store we have locally has a its good and bad points. I personally like the Aquarium because they have a very wide selection, beautiful tanks that are well kept up, and when I need something that is not an everyday item I can usually find it there when I have been unable to find it elsewhere. |
Posted By: cbarney
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 1:09pm
| I figure I'll add my two cents. I have been fairly happy with the Aquarium when I make it down that way (cheap frags are great). I have been really happy with my L-LFS, Aquatic Dreams since I'm up north. The staff took some time to warm up but have been very honest and helpful. But I do have have to say that I'm not a fan of Bird World, especially lately, full price receding LPS? and not a whole lot of selection. |
Posted By: Connie
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 2:19pm
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Well I love Brad and the boys so I have to chime in. You DO get what you pay for and I will gladly pay more to have a clean, modern store, with excellent selection, healthy live stock, and wonderful employees.
I must say, with your attitude " baby children" & "un intelligent youngsters" are you suprised they might not be wanting to spend alot of quality time with you?? With a statement like that, I am assuming that you are of superior intellect and not really needing their advice anyway.. So lucky you, just go for the excellent selection. If your still not happy, the owners name is Brad. Ask for him and Im sure he will help you in anyway he can.
Brad has been wonderful to me. I have done coral trades and must say I came out ahead 9 times out of 10. He has gone as far as calling me and giving me his personal cell phone so I could get ahold of him when he thought I was not happy with something I got there. When I said that it had died, he replaced it free of charge. It was a 100.00 frag from his show tank..... I cant imagine any other store doing this. Does he do this for everyone, well Im sure he does not. I guess what I am saying it that you tend to get what you give. I give him alot of money and in return, I get great service..... It is a win, win for everyone.
Let me put it this way, if you are buying a Mercedes for the 4th time that year, do you think you will get better service from the salesman then the guy who is there for the 8th times and never buys anything other nuts from the machine???
Lighten up and play nice in the sand box............ Im sure they are doing the best they can... ------------- I have flying monkeys and I'm not afraid to use them. 180 gallon money pit that I love..... |
Posted By: unixnum1
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 3:04pm
I just got back from the aquarium and enjoyed perusing the nice goodies  that I wish I had.The parking lot and store were packed. I enjoyed looking at the fish and all of the coral frags.  I bought some Magnesium powder. Brad was right there to help me and even helped me figure out which product gave me more for my money. I went away happy, after all, isn't that the whole idea?  ------------- 220G with 30G sump, SPS/LPS. RoboTank Controller. ===================================== why am I always the stem?
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Posted By: dew2loud1
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 4:04pm
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The biggest problem for most people is that they don't understand how much is involved in an lfs, everyone wants products for wholesale, well take that wholesale tang you want add in the $10 boxcharge from the wholesaler the cost of heat packs the $50 shipping per box, the pick up/delivery from the air port, the time involved with acclimation, even if its just floating the bags..... Now everyone knows the electricity costs of their own tanks, multiply that by 100, this doesn't even account for products that die, when walmart brings in goods, they don't have to worry about there dvd players going belly up, things happen with live goods and when they die the store is left with the cost this is part of the markup....As mentioned crystal and I have received some great deals there, they have a decent selection of used equipment and a great selection of plumbing/replacement parts.
Be an educated shopper, it is your job primarily to know what you doing/buying. I get so fed up with people saying but my lionfish ate my clownfish, they should replace my fish.....etc etc. Stores are somewhat to blame, but if everyone spent the $20 to get a marine fishes book they wouldn't have any of these problems.
Tell me would any of the EXPERTS here work for $8 an hour to take the place of the "little kids", I personally take the time to explain to any lfs worker if they are wrong, and often the kids are the ones that want to learn more, whats your definition of a kid (I'm 24), fairly young but doesn't mean that I'm not knowledgable
Give people a chance and don't buy it if its not a good deal, bottom line, then you have nothing to complain about!!!!
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Posted By: jessedidthis
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 4:44pm
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yeah, you big hater! If you must complain about a store, do so with your friends and not on a message board. If you hate a place with a passion, then simply let it dwindle from your memory. ------------- Jesse Stewart |
Posted By: sumostorm
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 4:57pm
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I noticed there was a younger group working there when I was in on Saturday, but they were all very helpful. I agree they may not be 100% the most knowledgeable (didn't know the species of the anthias I bought), but they were helpful and waited for me patiently while chose a few different frags and a fish. I think I was asked at least four or five times if I needed anything, which was nice. And they did it in a way that wasn't annoying. My LFS is AD, and they are really cool to me, but I probably go in three times a week so they know me now. They don't have the selection of TA though so it is fun to go down there every once in a while and see what other stores have. I think they all have their advantages and disadvantages. |
Posted By: firefighter6681
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 5:00pm
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Jesse if you dislike what someone has to say about a store let them have there opinion and take your own words to mind. Simply let it dwindle from your memory
------------- 65 Gallon and just getting started again after over year break. |
Posted By: rebekwl
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 5:44pm
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LMAO!!!!!! Man, I love this site. ------------- 92 corner w/ 30 gal sump Mantis tank coming soon "Ain't nobody got Time for that" |
Posted By: ajkochev
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 6:38pm
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Forgive the vagueness but I need to keep the identity as discreet as possible. I happen to know an aquarium employee very well. I've had long conversations with them while off hours and I think the person is very knowlegable. The person doesn't generally work the floor anymore though. I personally like the small frag tanks. Coral frags from $5 to $20. I've bought a few things that way. I also shop fish 4 u and yes, petco for livestock but the small frag tanks keep me going back to The Aquarium. I think it depends on the curcomstance and timing if you have a bad experience. Try again another day and see how it goes.
That said, I went to another store last week(I'll keep it nameless) and was mad at the waste of time I spent driving to it and probably won't be back for awhile. The prices I thought were way marked up over several other pet stores in the valley. They made The Aquarium look down right cheap!
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Posted By: fishman90G
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 9:02pm
i think we have a contraversial subject on our hands guys . i think that some people would rather pay way over "top dollar" for stuff that other people would like to save a few bucks and make our money stretch. dont you think they get their stuff from the same places ALL our other LFS's get it from? so basically what has been said is people would rather pay an extra 20 or 30 bucks to get livestock that the employees have no clue what exact species it is. LMAO i think its quite funny that i can get the same "quality" maxima clam for half the price and half the distance from me. i mean come on how do people(outside the car dealerships) mark their products so far up and expect us to pay for it? "quality" i dont think so not when you get bumped to the end of the line no matter how long you've been there. i was at aquatica the other day and a guy walked in there and demanded the same "primadonna" attention i assume he gets at the the aquarium and then argued with the guys about how their prices are non-negotiable like a flippin car dealer. get rel dude your not buying a car. anyways i know everyone has their own opinion about our LFS's but if your gonna charge $88 for a 2" maxima then take your profits and invest it back into customer service and more employees that know their fish or have the common sense to ask someone else what it is. i wonder if the employees there are comissioned salesman or not? lol i love antagonising
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Posted By: fishman90G
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 9:06pm
| ajkochev--- could that really be possible outside of their $5-20 frag sections? the only price ive seen that is normal is for snails and crabs $1.99. last time i was in there i saw a naso same size as mine and same health for around $80 more. ya im there dude. not all of us are well off enough to throw money away. i do not mean to offend anybody here |
Posted By: Dion Richins
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 10:09pm
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So how do you really feel about Urban Aquatics? ------------- http://www.customaquariumfurniture.com" rel="nofollow - Bad "censored" Cabinets Best quality in the valley! He is one sexy bald guy, even with out a finger!(MAC) |
Posted By: mermaidcamille
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 10:42pm
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If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all.
I am a little disappointed that there is even a post slamming any of the local stores at all. I hope it stops.
Camille ------------- 135g...D.E.A.D Welcome bright and shiny 120! |
Posted By: Danner
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 10:52pm
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lmao Dion, pullin in the urban aquatics card huh. anyway i think people are gettin a little over excited here. it was just an oppinion and prob right after it happened and was upset about it, nothing to get all mad about. but as for my oppinion i think that aquarium is a very nice store, with that bein said their overhead is HUGE. i doint even want to konw what brad pays in electricity with that huge pond outside and all. love the frag tank also. yes the prices are higher, but some times they just have something you cant go without.
Ryan
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Posted By: Danner
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 10:57pm
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oh and can we get this outta buy sell trade please. i dont think anyone is tryin to do any of those here, thanks :P
Ryan
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Posted By: shakin06
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 10:58pm
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I went to the Aquarium last night and bought a new convict tang. I shop there often. Great store! ------------- 72 Bow ASM G2 Oceanic1 mag 9.5 TEK 8 bulb T5HO |
Posted By: MadReefer
Date Posted: April 03 2008 at 11:46pm
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I like some things about The Aquarium. I don't like the bubble algae I got from there, but I should have quarantined better. I would recommend the store to friends but would tell them to be cautious. I have seen many pests and fish disease in the store. But it's not like you can get away from that in any LFS. My favorite LFS is Fish4U. But I go to The Aquarium a lot also. I could tell you more about other places but I wouldn't have much good to say and my experience is limited so I don't think that that is fair.And if you have a problem with the prices there is a simple solution: Don't buy it!!
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Posted By: Dion Richins
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 12:39am
Imao? Was my Sarcasm lacking?
I like the aquarium. They have as many problems with miscommunication and problem employees as any other store. If some one has a problem then they should go to the owner/manager and voice it. Not blast it here. (unless its "They who shalt not be named") ------------- http://www.customaquariumfurniture.com" rel="nofollow - Bad "censored" Cabinets Best quality in the valley! He is one sexy bald guy, even with out a finger!(MAC) |
Posted By: Danner
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 12:42am
| that was my point dion, i was kidding |
Posted By: fishman90G
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 1:05am
lmao i was gonna say something sarcastic like that earlier but felt since i had nothing to do with why he is out of business, divorced and selling off all his stuff, i should just keep my mouth shut.
i agree enough is enough everyone on here has their own thoughts on all our LFS's, some good and some bad. and then some very disturbing. i think we all have voiced our opinion enough to cause a frenzy and get people really upset. so lets just cut it out already. nicely
BTW will someone hurry up and by my 75g tank with canopy no stand or filtration? $100 get this dang thing outa my basement please. there i turned it into a sell topic lmao. i was serious though i need it gone. id even trade for a 40g breeder tank only or a 36" or comparible sump
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Posted By: Dion Richins
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 8:28am
Ummmmm Ryan, Just know that I'm a Dork.
 I was half way home last night after posting that, when I realized what lmao meant. My bad, I shouldn't post that late after working that many hours I think enough has been said. It seams that every spring some one gets there panties in a wad over some store and we get one of these loooooooong threads on there good and bad. With one exception the accuser always ends up looking silly.
I will always give my opinion of the different stores in private. But I think making a fool out of ones self in the open thread is very entertaining! ------------- http://www.customaquariumfurniture.com" rel="nofollow - Bad "censored" Cabinets Best quality in the valley! He is one sexy bald guy, even with out a finger!(MAC) |
Posted By: PDoug
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 11:44am
Every time this has occurred in the end it is slander. If you approach the management they will do their best to make amends------------- (307)679-7898 Phillip Douglass 75 Gallon Reef Tank |
Posted By: sumostorm
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 12:22pm
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Actually, it is libel.
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Posted By: shaddowwalk
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 2:47pm
 WOW! Well I see my job is done here.(at least for the moment) Some may say I shouldn't stir the pot, but I feel it is mt duty as an American, and a card carrying member of A-holes of Utah, to indeed stir things up.LOL I'm greatly amused by the 3 pages of replies. It warms my heart to know I can voice an opinion, and have things go boom. So do I push my luck?......................... YES  I know Brad the owner. I know he will help you if you need him to. That is because he would knock over his own grandmother to pick up a dollar off the ground. BAM! (blows imaginary smoke off imaginary gun)
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Posted By: sumostorm
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 2:53pm
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Well who wouldn't??? Duh!
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Posted By: Dion Richins
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 2:58pm
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WOW! ------------- http://www.customaquariumfurniture.com" rel="nofollow - Bad "censored" Cabinets Best quality in the valley! He is one sexy bald guy, even with out a finger!(MAC) |
Posted By: cl2ysta1
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 3:10pm
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hmmpf ------------- I <3 Boxers Achilles tang lover |
Posted By: chris.rogers
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 4:08pm
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Oh please, shadowwalk. Card carrying member of the *******s of America?
Admitting it is the first step toward recovery. ------------- Ils sont fous, ces Romains! |
Posted By: Dion Richins
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 4:21pm
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------------- http://www.customaquariumfurniture.com" rel="nofollow - Bad "censored" Cabinets Best quality in the valley! He is one sexy bald guy, even with out a finger!(MAC) |
Posted By: fishman90G
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 4:31pm
| does that mean you only have 11 more steps to recovery? lol. |
Posted By: rebekwl
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 4:33pm
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lol!!!!! Did I already say how much I love the freaking site? ------------- 92 corner w/ 30 gal sump Mantis tank coming soon "Ain't nobody got Time for that" |
Posted By: superman1981
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 5:31pm
I like fish  So consequently I like LFS's.... I even liked Urban Aquatic's for the whole 3 weeks it lasted Thats my thought on this thread. ------------- Sure you are, you are Crappy Reef Club Member #1 -Chk4tix 6 gal nanocube 65 gal http://www.utahreefs.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=78639&title=tims-65-gallon-build" rel="nofollow - build thread |
Posted By: superman1981
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 5:34pm
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One more quick thought/question.. just by the way this thread is going, and the joy the original poster finds in it... I just have to ask, Shaddowwalk, do you by any chance own a giant pacific octopus?
------------- Sure you are, you are Crappy Reef Club Member #1 -Chk4tix 6 gal nanocube 65 gal http://www.utahreefs.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=78639&title=tims-65-gallon-build" rel="nofollow - build thread |
Posted By: fishman90G
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 9:05pm
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lol where'd the octopus come from?
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Posted By: Dion Richins
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 10:14pm
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Holy Sh*&!!!!! I fell off of the couch laughing. VERY NICE Tim, very nice!!!!! ------------- http://www.customaquariumfurniture.com" rel="nofollow - Bad "censored" Cabinets Best quality in the valley! He is one sexy bald guy, even with out a finger!(MAC) |
Posted By: rebekwl
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 10:22pm
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Da** dion, I thought I was the only other one that remembered that!!! ------------- 92 corner w/ 30 gal sump Mantis tank coming soon "Ain't nobody got Time for that" |
Posted By: Danner
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 10:27pm
ah man i am left out on this i want to laugh too 
Ryan
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Posted By: Dion Richins
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 10:32pm
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I'm still irritated I got screwed out of seeing it!! ------------- http://www.customaquariumfurniture.com" rel="nofollow - Bad "censored" Cabinets Best quality in the valley! He is one sexy bald guy, even with out a finger!(MAC) |
Posted By: rebekwl
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 10:55pm
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I think the tank was the best part of that story. What was the size again? ------------- 92 corner w/ 30 gal sump Mantis tank coming soon "Ain't nobody got Time for that" |
Posted By: Dion Richins
Date Posted: April 04 2008 at 11:03pm
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800g ------------- http://www.customaquariumfurniture.com" rel="nofollow - Bad "censored" Cabinets Best quality in the valley! He is one sexy bald guy, even with out a finger!(MAC) |
Posted By: larhalli
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 12:36am
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Boy you guys can't let a dead horse lie. I still chuckle about that story.
------------- Larry Halliday West Jordan |
Posted By: EagleEyez5
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 12:57am
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hey.....I posted a joke about it in Adams nano challenge, and got a cuttlefish out of it....... .....good one tim.....I almost choked when I read it.......almost had coke comming out of my nose.....then I laughed again thinking about my own reaction......man did it hurt...... ------------- http://www.highendcorals.com/"> 
WMAS PAID SPONSOR |
Posted By: The Aquarium
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 3:06pm
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Hi, Brad Daniels here,
WOW!!! this stirred some attention. Ill address a few things and keep it short.
Any concerns, questions, bad service, etc. etc. you can mail me at mailto:[email protected] - [email protected] it will come directly to my phone, and, I or my management will be happy to address your concerns, ASAP.
 A few unique things about a fish store that are often overlooked unless you work one:
Its not like the grocery store where you walk in, take the product off the shelf, take it to the cashier, pay, and leave with the impression that the customer service was great, without really having questions.
A fish store demands almost one employee per customer in the store, due to either answering technical questions, bagging fish, testing water, explaining unique product etc...
If we get 5-6 customers all needing assistance at the same time, sometimes you cant offer the best customer service w/ out someone geting impatient, or mad.
Rather than bashing my store publically, or if you are just totally unsatisfied with our establishment, simply please just dont do business with us and you'll have nothing to worry about. My staff and I are only human, and we just cant make everyone happy. (Ive come to grips with that years ago). But, we'll try.
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Posted By: Shane H
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 3:21pm
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Brad, I appreciate your taking the the time to respond. Your post is both professional and honest. Thanks for providing a great store for members of the WMAS and the users of our message board.
Regards,
Shane Heil
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Posted By: fishman90G
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 3:28pm
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wow thank you brad for the clarification as to the demands posed on you and yur employees over there. although i have'nt had too many good visits to your store i thonk its awesome you would come out and address those issues so carefully as to not offend anybody. i think that even though my experiences havent been good, i will continue to shop at your store when i am up in salt lake area. i really do love your whole layout of the store.
BTW i thought this topic was in buy/sell/trade? |
Posted By: fishman90G
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 3:37pm
| LMAO i guess now we have 2 spots to go and complain now! just kidding guys |
Posted By: Dion Richins
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 3:39pm
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Right on Brad!! Your Awesome!!! ------------- http://www.customaquariumfurniture.com" rel="nofollow - Bad "censored" Cabinets Best quality in the valley! He is one sexy bald guy, even with out a finger!(MAC) |
Posted By: Mike Savage
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 3:42pm
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That is great that you would take the time to respond in a timely and professional manner. Thank you.
Mike ------------- |
Posted By: Bluespotjawfish
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 4:39pm
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My aquarium and I would like to thank all the staff at the Aquarium for their great help over the past year (and the 10 years before that). Lorraine |
Posted By: Suzy
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 6:05pm
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I find The Aquarium to be my favorite fish store on the planet. Brad has gone out of his way to order products I love, things not available anywhere else. I can get any pump part made, any bulkhead, live cultures, breeding stock or specialty food product I need. Plus, I love his staff. Rick, Mike, Brandon, Josh, the tall guy I don't know his name, ect all have tanks and tons of knowledge. Who ever said Brad has kids working there hasn't talked to them. I know they are not talking about Josh. He is young but easily one of the most brilliant hobbyists I know. I must say in the decade I've shopped at The Aquarium, I have never had moment when I regretted walking in the store. I am there at least once a week, and always leave with some thing I treasure. Brad, can I use this post to thank you again for ordering in the mysis that my juveniles thrive on? I am really amazed at the growth rates I'm getting. Even their colors are more brilliant! I am not sure if I told you this, but I asked every fish store owner in the valley to order it for me, and not one did. One even told me it wouldn't be worth his time because he already had plenty of frozen mysis brands. Your customer service has one over a customer for life! Thanks again! ------------- http://www.suzysreef.com - SuzysReef.com http://z4.invisionfree.com/UtahBreeder/index.php?showtopic=11&st=0&#last - Using Macroalgae for Aquascaping |
Posted By: jessedidthis
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 7:48pm
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Large pink text always helps get your point across, even if you sound like a jackass. ------------- Jesse Stewart |
Posted By: Chya
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 9:35pm
| The legend of Kraken boy lives on... |
Posted By: EagleEyez5
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 10:11pm
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I just bought the most impressive gold rim tang from them today....I had been eye balling it for a while now, and finally bit the bullet and went with another expensive fish......I am now really going to see how well this ozoner works..... ------------- http://www.highendcorals.com/">
WMAS PAID SPONSOR |
Posted By: Mike Savage
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 10:11pm
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Awesome fish Jerry. I can't wait to see it.
Mike ------------- |
Posted By: MrNewbie
Date Posted: April 05 2008 at 11:44pm
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Brad, I can only say thank you for responding to this thread. I have always enjoyed coming in even on the days I was just wishing I was always treated well. You have created an environment where my 6 year old compares the tanks at Sea World to your display tanks and says "we have cooler ones at home at the fish store dad" I love to visit and buy occasionally. I have never had one of these terrible experiences there. Yes the prices may be a little higher, but your tanks are clean, the store is awesome, and I have never left feeling like someone was trying to hustle me. Your prices are what they are, but you are still in business after a number of years. You personally took care of my mother a few years back while I was on vacation to get a new pump for my nano. My mother said "a nice young man named Brad even offered to come and install it if I couldn't figure it out" that has meant alot to me. She was able to do it herself with my help on the phone, but to have you offer to come and do it meant alot. This was before I had made so many friends here on the board and at the meetings and you were always there to help. All the haters out there just need to go suck a lemon and be glad that we have stores like the Aquarium we could have a bunch of Urban Aquatics. Even though Dion loved them some of us did not shed a tear over their departure ------------- Just a couple of glass boxes full of slimey things |
Posted By: Dion Richins
Date Posted: April 06 2008 at 12:38am
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Robert, Robert, Robert.........Im going to let that one slide......... ------------- http://www.customaquariumfurniture.com" rel="nofollow - Bad "censored" Cabinets Best quality in the valley! He is one sexy bald guy, even with out a finger!(MAC) |
Posted By: Suzy
Date Posted: April 06 2008 at 7:51am
That is really sad. He lost his business, and his marriage? wow.... I haven't been paying attention here much. Your post almost implies that there are some who do have something to do with a man losing so much. Isn't this the guy who wanted to start a radio program for WMAS? Why would someone want to hurt him so much? So, in this thread, a great LFS has been slammed, a young kid and a ex small business owner. Looks like the MB hasn't changed much.... ------------- http://www.suzysreef.com - SuzysReef.com http://z4.invisionfree.com/UtahBreeder/index.php?showtopic=11&st=0&#last - Using Macroalgae for Aquascaping |
Posted By: dew2loud1
Date Posted: April 06 2008 at 8:27am
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" I just bought the most impressive gold rim tang from them today....I
had been eye balling it for a while now, and finally bit the bullet and
went with another expensive fish......I am now really going to see how
well this ozoner works....." You bought the gold rim!! Good thing- crystal was eyeballing it she said it was absolutely gorgeous, now we can come see it at your place |
Posted By: Dion Richins
Date Posted: April 06 2008 at 2:16pm
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Suzy....I believe that The Aquarium was defended quite well. A "young" kid that brought the slamming here was rebuked. And A small Business owner that lost it all did it himself. ( This is the first I've heard about a divorce. So sad with her medical problems)
"Honesty is the best Policy" which BRAD has shown once again. I buy from honest stores with high integrity. I see no reason why any one wouldn't shop with the Aquarium, Fish 4 You, Aquatic Dreams or many others. I welcome any new store and hope that they are based on honesty and integrity or people in general will stay away.
The greatest thing about this board is the incredible diversity here. And the fact that ALL have access to it with out having to "register" and be approved. IT makes me wonder what boards have to hide when they do that.
With such access comes the issues of differing opinions and feelings. Some get out of line and as far as I can remember the stores that are based on Honesty and Integrity have been defended to the end.
Personally I'm thankful for this board being open to all, and NOT monitored like the Third Rik. Ive learned much from individuals here concerning reef keeping, conservation, and even about my own short comings. I believe all of this has helped me be a better person and more responsible reefer.. ------------- http://www.customaquariumfurniture.com" rel="nofollow - Bad "censored" Cabinets Best quality in the valley! He is one sexy bald guy, even with out a finger!(MAC) |
Posted By: Jeff Morrill
Date Posted: April 06 2008 at 5:56pm
------------- WHAT KINDA GUM????... Give em 2 sticks. |
Posted By: mlmforsuccess
Date Posted: April 06 2008 at 6:24pm
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:) ------------- KP Properties LLC, Real Estate Investor. 12G Nano Chris, Provo |
Posted By: MrNewbie
Date Posted: April 06 2008 at 6:57pm
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"We have a great potential in this club, except i am not a member anymore because of what goes on so often in here." Don't worry about the drama and get to know the people. I can say I have met more great people through this club than I would have ever imagined. The same goes for the LFS in the area. Anyone can stand back and way there are things going on that they don't like but get involved or don't complain. Chris this was not aimed at you personally, I am just struck by the number of people complaining about things and looking at their guest status. Brad has gone out of his way to try and make things good and has responded to this, lets let it die. Now let's all stop throwing sand and play nice. I have always wanted to way that, I heard it way to often growing up. Robert ------------- Just a couple of glass boxes full of slimey things |
Posted By: Debbles
Date Posted: April 06 2008 at 7:17pm
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Ok, I kept my mouth shut long enough......I don't know how Suzy can say the board hasn't changed much. If you would notice, the person that started this post is new to the board. This was actually his 2nd post. The people that have been around for a while actually defended Brad and his store. There really hasn't been a whole lot of drama on here for quite a while, it seems like everyone is pretty much friends. I know I have made some great lifelong friends in this club. I don't like that anyone is slamming any of our LFS's. I am glad that Brad came on here and defended his store. Not surprising that Suzy came on here and slammed the message board though. It seems that the only time she "pops" up is when there is drama.
Deb
PROUD PAID MEMBER of the WMAS ------------- Yes Mikey...I still have fins!!! |
Posted By: Adam Blundell
Date Posted: April 07 2008 at 11:42am
Sorry, I was out of town this weekend. I just now got to reading this. Dang, this post, along with Superman's about put me on the floor.
That is great.
Adam
ps- I still love shopping at the Aquarium (wanted to say it again) ------------- Come to a meeting, they�re fun! |
Posted By: ReefBones
Date Posted: April 07 2008 at 1:53pm
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ya know .. I have to pop in here ... I started BST Aquatics thinking I would be able to help the board by not charging a arm and a leg for live stock .. I had a idea that I thought would be great and help the community ... I have since come to the conclusion that it does not work that way .. you have to take into account the entire picture .. flat out the live stock is expensive .. Does The Aquarium charge more .. Yes they do .. its not a secrete .. but look at there store .. its awesome .. by far the best looking and cleanest store in the valley .. BTW that does not come cheep ..
There are 2 types of people on this board ...
1) the person that want everything for nothing .. and there are more of you out there than you are willing to admit
2) the person that is willing to pay a few bucks for something. Very few on this board are willing to pay what things worth ...
I will say I learned a lot running BST Aquatics .. and I really found where I stand in this little community ... ------------- 140 gallon Reef 65 gallon Reef 55 gallon Aggressive www.thesalttank.com 801-865-6074 "encourage other divers and sea enthusiasts to take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but bubbles" |
Posted By: Shane H
Date Posted: April 07 2008 at 2:13pm
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Very few on this board are willing to pay what things worth ...
I think this is a very interesting comment and one I've heard from several LFS.
Do you think things (equipment, livestock, dry goods) are worth less to people on this board? Or, do you think people on our board and the internet in general are more educated about prices?
I don't think an items SRP determines its value, but rather the market in which in sells determines the value. If people are willing to pay a higher price -then its value goes up, if not, the value must come down or there will be no transaction. The other alternative is to find another market.
So, back to the original question: is our market (the WMAS message board) just more fickle because we're experienced or because we're just cheap SOBs that don't want the LFS to make any money.
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Posted By: dew2loud1
Date Posted: April 07 2008 at 2:25pm
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I will say with 100% conviction that people on this board are very very very very lucky to have the resources that they do in the area and that were they in ANY other market they would be paying much much higher prices. It's not that they are more educated (many are) but they don't devote half the budget towards reefing that hobbiests in other regions do. From my personal experience in other locations everyone on this board is willing to pay about 1/2 of what others in the country pay for used equipment and even corals for that matter. However that worked out I just hope that everyone knows how lucky they are and that they seem to have somewhat of a control of the market value of products in their area......... There are a lot of people however that seem to want things for nothing, I've never seen anyone actually ask someone to drive an item to them that they are giving away for free, I've seen it twice now on this board, I've also seen items not even being able to be given away or sold for less than 1/10 of market value...... It seems there are a decent number of serious hobbiests and many that wouldn't be in this hobby if they weren't able to get nearly everything for dirt cheap- Bottom line its a very very hard market anyway to make margins in and in this market it seems that even making any margin is nearly impossible. So i'd say everyone should count themselves lucky to be in the location they are and appreciate all the resources they have available to them..... |
Posted By: Shane H
Date Posted: April 07 2008 at 2:27pm
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A few other comments about the WMAS community and the fish store business. For the most part, those of us that have been around the hobby for any significant amount of time know how difficult running a LFS can be. Most of us respect the LFS owners because we know how nearly impossible it is to make a living in this field. Otherwise, you would have Heil's Fish Haven in Brigham City, Corey's iFish in Clearfield, Adam's Reef Emporium in Centerville, The Garden of Eva Pets and Fish in Murray, and, and, and ....
So many people get their hands on a wholesale price list and think; "Wow, look at that mark up! I should open a fish store tomorrow. Those guys have got to be making a truck load of money." But, those that know - know better and realize just how much work it takes to make a go out of a LFS.
My hat is off to those guys and I'm really glad they're willing to go for it. It is a tough industry at best and those stores that have stayed in business long term understand the local market. If they didn't they would not last.
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Posted By: Shane H
Date Posted: April 07 2008 at 2:34pm
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people on this board are very very very very lucky to have the resources that they do in the area and that were they in ANY other market they would be paying much much higher prices.
Can't say I totally agree with this statement. I've been to fish stores in many other cities in the U.S. as well as Germany, France, Sweden, Turkey and England. Some items may be priced lower here, but from my obervations the prices and selection were actually quite similar. I've since stopped making the effort to find LFS when I travel because they are so similar world-wide.
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Posted By: Dion Richins
Date Posted: April 07 2008 at 2:35pm
Exactly!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Its to bad that a couple of individuals that have a chip on their shoulder, have to come here and complain about things that they themselves wont do. ------------- http://www.customaquariumfurniture.com" rel="nofollow - Bad "censored" Cabinets Best quality in the valley! He is one sexy bald guy, even with out a finger!(MAC) |
Posted By: superman1981
Date Posted: April 07 2008 at 2:45pm
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I blame it all on Utah Rock No seriously, I think there are a lot of people in the hobby in Utah because of the cheapness/freeness of Utah Rock, this is a commodity that we have that pretty much no one else has. I can tell you in all seriousness, that if it weren't for Utah Rock I wouldn't be in the hobby because I wouldn't be able to save the money to buy the rock needed just to get started. Because of this, you tend to get a lot of enthusiastic hobbiests, who don't have a ton of money (or as much as say, hobbiests in different regions of the country), and consequently are looking for the cheapest prices possible. I am undoubtedly a cheap hobbiest, and am not ashamed to admit it. People are prone to look for the cheapest price possible, and because of the freeness of Utah Rock, I think it brings down the expectation of the local fish economy all around. ------------- Sure you are, you are Crappy Reef Club Member #1 -Chk4tix 6 gal nanocube 65 gal http://www.utahreefs.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=78639&title=tims-65-gallon-build" rel="nofollow - build thread |
Posted By: ReefBones
Date Posted: April 07 2008 at 2:49pm
OOO boy you have no idea how true this statement is!!!! LOL ... I have to be honest .. when I started BST I was thinking just that .. I thought heck I could sell for 1/2 of what the brick and mortar stores sell it for and still make a killing!!! guess what ... it doesn't work that way ... and to be honest .. there is very VERY little markup on hardware ... the mark up is in live stock .. but than its a gamble ... so next time you see a Mag 3400 marked at 349.99 and think HOLY COW the store must be making 300.00 bucks on that pump .. think again ... they are making about 25.00 ..
------------- 140 gallon Reef 65 gallon Reef 55 gallon Aggressive www.thesalttank.com 801-865-6074 "encourage other divers and sea enthusiasts to take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but bubbles" |
Posted By: firefighter6681
Date Posted: April 07 2008 at 2:53pm
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I agree with Shane here. I know my self and yes I do like to get items at a great price. I mean I do look around alot for th best price. The net has helped alot of people with that. But unlike some people I do drive very far at times just to get something nice. Yes Aquatic Dreams has nice corals and it is the closet LFS I have but I also drive over a hour just to go to aquatica because I like how they treat me. I also like that they have a live guarantee that most don't carry, So its worth the drive. I would have to say though The Aquarium does have a great looking store and they treated me very well. I think we all for the most part find things we like and dislike about stores. I mean things that might happen to me might not happen to you and so how you feel about the store is not going to be the same. I have to say though I like WMAS and glad it is here even though i'm not a paid member ------------- 65 Gallon and just getting started again after over year break. |
Posted By: Debbles
Date Posted: April 07 2008 at 4:27pm
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Running a LFS costs money anyway you look at it whether it be a brick and mortar store or at home. Some people don't realize what it takes even for an at home store. Besides the obvious added electricity etc there are costs such as the monthly charge of running a credit card machine, a checking account, advertising, etc. Sure there are cheap ways of doing these things but it all adds up. You still have to pay for a business license, inspections, modifying your home to comply to laws, a business name etc. And not to mention the price of the equipment and tanks, the livestock, food to keep it all alive, salt, shipping AND freight charges, box charges, etc. It really does add up quickly. I can't even begin to imagine what it costs The Aquarium to run on a monthly basis. Sure, their prices may be higher than some other stores but it is a nice store.
Deb ------------- Yes Mikey...I still have fins!!! |
Posted By: dew2loud1
Date Posted: April 07 2008 at 6:46pm
I was referring more to the hobbiest ( used equipment) sector not retail, retail here is very similar to everywhere else actually higher than what I pay in the midwest on livestock, but the corals/fish species that come in vary significantly, some things are cheaper some things are more expensive... Very good point with the utah base rock, I remember paying $9 a pound when I first started out, luckily it was only a ten gallon nano, but that was a big hit back then. For most people starting out the cost of live rock is the most daunting, telling anyone the price to stock even a 29 gallon with $7 lb rock turns them off in a huge hurry! Either way, I think that everyone is very lucky to have the resources that they do...... |