I'm talking straight up Gas Station

[bja0715]

There are so many gas stations selling knock off egos here in the Denton/Lewisville Tx area. It sucks because the quality isn't there.
But it's great because the option is there. They can upgrade from that. They have the option to take the plunge.

 

[blaufisch]

I think specialty stores are the answer. We have tons in Toronto catering the imbibers of illegal substances, why not one for vapes? I will not get into the intricacies and idiocies of HealthCanada here... However, I believe with more brick and mortar specialty establishments in posh areas, it would not only be more convenient but spread the word.

I've also had a conversation with a few tobacconists who are looking into taking up some stock in the e-cig industry but are as bewildered as any n00b with conflicting information, vague regulation, and a glut of confusing gadgets. I think the gas station kit shown in a previous post in this thread is fantastic and should be targeted at tobacconists instead of gas stations.

The convenience stores in my area seem to be sticking with disposables for the time being. I do not think its worth it for them to invest in anything more until they see some market stability.

 

[schotzky]

We sell Ego kits at my smoke shop/gas station. We also sell blue kits. We carry atomizers, juice, batteries, chargers. Unfortunately not carto's or clearos, which im not a big fan of but are easier for some people. They are reasonably priced too. A lot of gas stations and even some grocery stores carry them.

 

[Dave L]

REALLY interesting thread. Thanks, Downtown, for starting it! Both sides, or should I say all sides, bring up interesting and valid points. In general I tend to agree with Downtown because I favor quality, but I see people caring more about price and convenience. Why else would people continue shopping at MalWart when everyone knows they drive good, American businesses into the ground? In some areas it's so bad that you have to drive an hour to find an alternative, and I think that's positively criminal. But until the American people get their heads out of their a**es and start voting with their wallets, it isn't going to change.

I've spent a great deal of my working life in "boutique" or "niche" businesses - I've manufactured futons, soaps, and spent many years restoring antiques and high-end furniture. None of these were businesses that will ever go mainstream, but there is a segment of every market that prefers a handcrafted, natural, product made and sold by knowledgeable, helpful people. I'm glad I can pick up some NJOYs at my local 7-11 if I don't have my eGo with me, or if I'm out of juice. I don't expect to buy a high-quality product there. I'm also glad there are a couple B&M stores in my city where I can handle the products, ask questions, and even try different flavors. I'm also pleased to know that when I go online, there is a whole world of stuff out there that ranges from the utilitarian to the exotic.

This is obviously a new industry, and it's already had some growing pains. There will be more changes to come. But I think that all segments of the market can flourish if allowed to. I think it's a little like the microbrew beer market. The guy who drinks Bud Lite may never try a Blue Moon or a Sam Adams, but those products aren't really aimed at the Bud Lite guy anyway. The people who like Sam Adams however, just might try some of the expensive microbrews that are starting to pop up in the better stores. Something for everyone, and yes, experienced users of any product play a huge part in moving things along.