Even with the drive and hotels, I still come out far ahead at shows. I live in Chicago and travel all over the Midwest for shows, so I see a lot of different customers each weekend. Many of the Two Hearts dealers travel country-wide for shows. I generally avoid the 10- to 20-table shows and set up at shows with 50 to 100 tables.
Simply put, as a dealer, my sales at shows far exceed my sales on eBay. It's no longer worth the time, expense and hassle for me. As long as shows continue to be profitable, I'll continue to set up.
In addition, eBay's inventory has really suffered over the years as they administered anti-auction/collectible rules for sellers. The best stuff has long since left eBay. I've been blown away by the selection of cards listed these past several month by the likes of REA, SCP, Mile High, Sterling, Legendary, etc. My wallet is also much lighter.
Come out on Sunday, I promise a discount... without any negotiating!!
|