Just from what I've observed locally. Don't carry the same replacement component or expendable parts Wal-Mart or Sports Authority does. These items have to be a brand that discerns itself from that customer or price point. Bikes, higher end brand and slightly pricier to most expensive models. Bike Techs that can turn around repairs instantaneously. Most of the lbs around here carry a limited number of brands with little or no overlap in the brand territory, unless it's used. Carry a full line of products, including jerseys, shoes, pants, helmets. I guess there's no way around inventory. Otherwise you're starting out as an internet bike shop, and that doesn't hurt to ebay for sales either. The lock I wound up getting off the internet was actually from a bike shop some 30 miles one direction away in the same city I live, they offered an good deal and S&H turned out to be less than the round trip on $ 4/gallon gas at the time. So don't short or underestimate Amazon, ebay and internet sales.