The business model of the independent tire stores!

i have stopped shopping around for tires over a decade ago
i found a local chain store i liked and simply dealt with them (i like having all my stuff in one place)

well, about a year ago i needed 2 tires fixed

called them, and the phone rang and rang and rang

finally i said, screw it, ill just swing by there

so i get there and this kid in a hazmat suit asked me if i had an appointment
i said no, im just dropping off and you guys dont answer your phone anyway

well, we got an app now and i need you to make an appointment on that

i said listen junior, i dont need an appointment, im right in front of you
take the tires, plug em, and ill pick em up in a few days


so he takes my tires, and gives me a slip

i call in about a week later, and again no answer

so i drive out there and see whats going on
same deal, did you make an appointment on the app?
no, and im not putting it on my phone either, i just need my tires


oh yeah, they are done
we couldnt fix em

great, thanks for letting me know


guess what, im at a point where i dont mind paying a few dollars extra for the smaller shop that answers the phone when i call, and calls me back when they are done